We do things a little differently in Nebraska. Instead of bright lights and crowded places, we crave wide open spaces and the beautiful natural places that surround us. That’s why we think that Burwell, a town of about 1200 people in Garfield County, just might be the most enchanting town in the state.
Burwell is the quintessential Sandhills town. It’s in cowboy country where life moves a little slower and the best “night life” is watching the stars.
flickr/Ali Eminov
The town is a whole one square mile large, but its personality extends much further.
flickr/J. Stephen Conn
Locally-owned small businesses are the backbone of this community, where neighbors take care of neighbors and residents genuinely appreciate their town.
flickr/J. Stephen Conn
Burwell is probably best known as the home of Nebraska’s Big Rodeo. It takes place every year at the end of July and draws people from all across the state.
flickr/J. Stephen Conn
The rodeo has been a staple of the Burwell economy (and social scene) for more than 80 years. As the name implies, it’s a very big deal here.
Nebraska Tourism
But there’s plenty more to do in this picturesque town that’s right on the North Loup River and just minutes away from Calamus Reservoir.
Facebook/Calamus Outfitters/Switzer Ranch
Calamus Outfitters can get you set up on a tubing or tanking trip on the river, or you can enjoy a leisurely canoe or kayak ride.
Calamus Outfitters/Switzer Ranch
They can even take you on excursions to see the Prairie Chickens. Their unique dance is one of the most fascinating natural sights in Nebraska!
Nebraska Tourism
Calamus Outfitters also offers Jeep safari rides through the Sandhills, which is an experience everyone should have at least once. The views are unbelievable.
Calamus Outfitters/Switzer Ranch Visit the Calamus Outfitters/Switzer Ranch site to see all of the adventures they have to offer.
Calamus Reservoir is one of the most popular water attractions in the Sandhills, and for good reason.
TripAdvisor/Nebraska O
These white sand beaches are absolutely beautiful. The water is perfect for all kinds of activities.
Nebraska Tourism
Windsurfing is particularly popular out here. Did you ever imagine you could surf in the middle of Nebraska?
Nebraska Tourism
Rowse 1 + 1 Ranch offers a delightful place to stay when you’re exploring Burwell.
TripAdvisor/management
This is a working cattle ranch where guests are expected to pitch in and learn all about how a ranch works. It’s surprisingly fun, and it’s definitely the experience of a lifetime.
TripAdvisor/MaldivianAddict Visit their site for more information on all of the fantastic adventures to be had here.
Burwell is also known for its long, fascinating history. This area was the site of several skirmishes between white settlers and Native Americans, which you can learn about…
flickr/J. Stephen Conn
…At Fort Hartsuff, one of the most tragically overlooked historical parks in Nebraska. The exhibits here really bring the pioneer era to life.
TripAdvisor
The grounds have been faithfully maintained, not recreated like many other historical sites. As many original items as possible are on display. You really feel like you’re walking back in time here, particularly during the living history reenactments.
TripAdvisor/Jim B. Find out more on the Nebraska Game and Parks site.
Whether you’re a cowboy at heart, a history buff, or just enjoy seeing Nebraska’s natural beauty in all it splendor, Burwell is a true gem that remains largely undiscovered by tourists. You’ll make memories here that will last a lifetime. Learn more about the town and all there is to do in the surrounding area here.
flickr/Ali Eminov
flickr/J. Stephen Conn
Nebraska Tourism
Facebook/Calamus Outfitters/Switzer Ranch
Calamus Outfitters/Switzer Ranch
Visit the Calamus Outfitters/Switzer Ranch site to see all of the adventures they have to offer.
TripAdvisor/Nebraska O
TripAdvisor/management
TripAdvisor/MaldivianAddict
Visit their site for more information on all of the fantastic adventures to be had here.
TripAdvisor
TripAdvisor/Jim B.
Find out more on the Nebraska Game and Parks site.
Would you like to explore some of Nebraska’s other fantastic small towns? Take a look at some of our favorite peaceful little towns here.
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