FAQs • Kearney • CivicEngage

Is a fishing license required to fish at the lakes at Yanney Park and Cottonmill Park?: Yes, State of Nebraska fishing regulations are followed at both lakes. People, 16 years of age or older, are required to have a State of Nebraska Fishing License.

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Park Facilities

1. Who should a person call if interested in getting information on renting a facility?: If you are interested in information regarding how to reserve a facility in one of the parks or checking a date for one of the facilities please call our office at (308) 233-3231. Reservations are not accepted over the phone. If you would like to reserve a facility, we can email the Rental Application to you or it can be downloaded. Please email rental form to rleach@kearneygov.org. We will call to collect payment and we can secure the location for you. You can stop by our office at 1930 University Drive if you prefer to pay with a check or cash.

2. Is alcohol allowed when renting a City facility?: No, alcohol is not allowed in any City park or facility except for the Gail and Michael Yanney Pavilion and Burlington Green Courtyard. Please visit our Rental Facilities to learn about special provisions and the Alcohol Addendum Form that must be completed for approval. Vendor must provide an SDL issued by the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. A uniformed off-duty office must be hired, by the expense of the renter, to be present the entire rental alcohol is present. Absolutely no alcohol can be brought in by the renter or their guests.

3. Is there a fee to use the splash pads?: No, the splash pads are free to the public.

4. When do the Park Splash Pads open and close for the season?: The splash pads generally open for the season on the Friday before Memorial Weekend and close on the second Sunday in September.

5. When do the swimming pools open and close for the season?: Harmon Pool and Centennial traditionally open the Tuesday after Kearney Public Schools is released. Harmon traditionally closes the third Sunday in August. Centennial Pool traditionally closes the Tuesday before Kearney Public Schools resumes. All open and closing dates are subject to change based of the school calendar year.

6. Can anyone reserve tennis courts, ball fields, or trails?: Yes, anyone can request the use of public tennis courts, ball fields, and trails. There are fees associated with the renting of these facilities. Please call the KPR office at (308) 237-4644 for more information.

7. Can people bring a Jump-a-Roo into the park for a public event, birthday or celebration?: Yes, people can bring in a Jump-a-Roo for a private party or public event. A Rental Application needs to be submitted and approved so that park staff is aware that it will be in the park. If the jump-a-roo is being placed in a public park without renting a facility, there is a $25 fee. If the event is open to the public, the group making the request is required to have a $1,000,000 liability policy and name the City of Kearney as an additional insured on that policy. All groups are required to meet with staff to review where you can put the Jump-a-Roo without damaging underground irrigation. We do not allow any jump-a-roo with water features.

8. Are people allowed to overnight camp at Cottonmill Park?: No, overnight camping is not allowed at Cottonmill Park or at any other City park.

9. Are park restrooms open year round?: No, park restrooms close October 31, with the exception of the ERC Building at Yanney, Cottonmill Lodge and the Harmon Park Activity Center restrooms which will remain open throughout the winter months. Restrooms reopen in the spring based on the weather.

10. Is a fishing license required to fish at the lakes at Yanney Park and Cottonmill Park?: Yes, State of Nebraska fishing regulations are followed at both lakes. People, 16 years of age or older, are required to have a State of Nebraska Fishing License.