Historic Camp Augustine to become Nebraska state park, boosting Grand Island

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — The former Camp Augustine, a 156-acre Boy Scouts site along the Platte River, is set to become Nebraska’s ninth state park, with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission expected to take ownership next summer.

The camp first opened in 1956 after being gifted by the Ernest Augustine family and served thousands of scouts before it was closed in 2023 when Grand Island purchased the property for $2 million. After years of negotiations, the city council voted 9-0 to transfer the land to the state for park development. The site covers about 156 acres.

Nebraska Game and Parks officials outlined a plan that preserves portions of the landscape while adding recreation facilities. A commission representative said some land will be conserved and other portions will become campgrounds, day-use areas and overnight lodging, with a careful approach to development that reflects community input. City council members noted concerns about overdevelopment and losing natural space, but officials emphasized that resident feedback will be considered.

Supporters argue the project would be transformative for Grand Island, a city of about 53,000 people. City leaders said the plan aligns with the community’s identity as a transportation and outdoor recreation hub, and many expect visits to boost local businesses and tourism.

The state’s plan will place Camp Augustine as the ninth state park in Nebraska, with possession by the Game and Parks Commission starting next summer and opening dates to be determined.

In addition, Grand Island has drafted a $45 million program to improve the surrounding area, including expanding hiking and biking trails, better river access, more campgrounds, and facilities such as an archery range, a pellet gun range and a dog park.

The project comes against a backdrop of Grand Island’s railroad history. The Union Pacific main line has linked the city since 1866, making Grand Island a transportation crossroads. Although passenger service has faded, freight operations continue to shape the local economy and tourism appeal. The park’s transformation also reflects wider shifts in youth organizations that have consolidated camps and adjusted operations amid changing membership and financial pressures.

Officials cautioned that the transfer will unfold over years and depend on state funding and environmental reviews. Still, city leaders expect the park to attract visitors and provide a lasting, positive impact on Grand Island and the surrounding region.