Information
Landmark: Livingston Peak TrailCity: Livingston MT
Country: USA Montana
Continent: North America
Livingston Peak Trail, Livingston MT, USA Montana, North America
Vogel Park is a municipal park located in Hastings, Nebraska, USA.
It is a 40-acre public green space designed for recreation and community events.
Visual Characteristics
The park features a central lake, approximately 5 acres in surface area, with a maximum depth of 12 feet. Surrounding the lake are open lawn areas, mature deciduous trees (primarily oak and maple species), and paved walking paths. Several picnic shelters with concrete foundations and metal roofs are distributed throughout the park. A playground area includes metal and plastic play structures.
Location & Access Logistics
Vogel Park is situated at 1000 East 14th Street, Hastings, NE. It is approximately 2.5 miles east of the Hastings city center. Access is directly from East 14th Street, with a main entrance on the south side. A dedicated parking lot with approximately 100 spaces is available adjacent to the main entrance. Public transport route 3 (East-West Connector) stops at the intersection of East 14th Street and Elm Avenue, a 0.2-mile walk to the park entrance.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Vogel Park was established in 1965 on land donated by the Vogel family. The park's development was overseen by the Hastings Parks Department. The lake was created through excavation and is fed by local groundwater and storm runoff. The surrounding vegetation is a mix of native prairie grasses and introduced ornamental trees and shrubs.
Key Highlights & Activities
Activities include fishing in the lake (catch and release encouraged), picnicking at designated shelters, playground use, and walking or jogging on the paved trails. The park hosts an annual summer concert series and a Fourth of July fireworks display. Birdwatching is possible due to the variety of trees and the water feature.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available in a central building near the main parking lot. Several picnic shelters provide shade. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available throughout the park. No on-site food vendors operate within the park, but convenience stores are located within a 0.5-mile radius.
Best Time to Visit
For photography, early morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) offers favorable lighting conditions with fewer visitors. The best months for weather are May through September, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F. No specific tide requirements apply.
Facts & Legends
A local anecdote suggests that a specific large oak tree near the lake's western edge was planted by the park's namesake, Mr. Vogel, himself. While unverified, it is a commonly shared story among long-time residents.
Nearby Landmarks
- Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History - 1.8km West
- Libby Park - 1.2km Southwest
- Adams County Fairgrounds - 2.1km Southeast
- Pioneers Park - 3.5km Northwest