Rock Creek Station State Historical Park

Park Snapshot Jefferson County 6 E of Fairbury Lat: 40.11179 Lon: -97.06526 Aerial Map 353 acres (0 water) Click region for new search (AreaID: 153) Attractions Overnight Accommodations Facility Details Campground/Cabin Maps Driving Directions Contact Information: Rock Creek Station SHP 57426 710th Rd Fairbury,  NE  68352-5550 Phone: (402) 729-5777 ngpc.Rock.Creek.Station@nebraska.gov

Summary

Rock Creek Station might have faded into obscurity, like so many other stage and Pony Express stations, except for one fateful day in 1861. On that July afternoon, one James Butler Hickok killed David McCanles there and began his bloody career as a gunfighter.

Today, Rock Creek is a state historical park being developed by the Commission. It encompasses some 350 acres of prairie hilltops, timber-studded creek bottoms, and rugged ravines.

Deep ruts, carved by the many wagons that traveled the Oregon/California and Pony Express Trails, are plainly visible there. They bear mute testimony to the rich history of the area.

Development of Rock Creek Station as a state historical park began in 1980. Archaeologists investigated and excavated sites of two ranches dating back to the 1858-1860 time period to determine building sites and to recover period artifacts.

Development is now complete on the reconstruction of the buildings and corrals on both the East and West ranches. However, visitors will find an excellent interpretive center, picnic areas, hiking and nature trails, as well as a modern campground on an adjoining tract. Rock Creek Station is open year-round.

Rock Creek SHP's Visitor Center overlooks some 350 acres of prairie hilltops, timber-studded creek bottoms, rugged ravines and deep trail ruts. A visit to the Visitor Center can help start a mental journey back to the 1800's. Interpretation of the road ranches, "Wild Bill" Hickok and tales of trail traffic bear mute testimony to the rich history of the area.

Rock Creek Station SHP is located adjacent to the Recreation Area which has electrical camper pads with a modern shower/latrine building.