The Palmer Epard Cabin and Heritage Center at Sunset
Photo: NPS Photo/Hunter Hendricks
About
The Homestead Act of 1862 transformed the world. Millions were invited to file claims including families, women, immigrants, and formerly enslaved people. Over 10 percent of the United States was homesteaded! The land, long inhabited by indigenous cultures, changed forever. Homesteaders created settlements and farms, drove industrial advancement, and built our nation chasing the American Dream.
Activities
Arts and CultureCompass and GPSGeocachingFoodPicnickingGuided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingHikingLiving HistoryJunior Ranger ProgramWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingPark FilmMuseum ExhibitsShopping
Directions
The park is 4 miles west of Beatrice on State Highway 4. From the U.S. 77 and U.S. 136 intersection in downtown Beatrice take U.S. 136 approximately 1.2 miles west. Turn right onto Nebraska Highway 4 and follow the signs. After the road has curved west and you have traveled 4 miles, you will enter Homestead National Historical Park and see signs for the different buildings at the park.
Get directions →Weather
Homestead NHP's weather can vary quite a bit, even in a single day. In the summer, average daytime highs can exceed 80°F (27°C), only to drop 20 or more degrees when a thunderstorm rolls through. Winter lows fluctuate day to day and year to year, but average lows were measured at about 16°F (-9°C) for January and February over a 20-year period. Wind is common throughout the year.
News
Jun 24, 2026
Homestead National Historical Park Hosts “The Mask of Lincoln” Exhibit
Homestead National Historical Park is hosting the traveling exhibit “The Mask of Lincoln” at the park’s Education Center beginning June 26 and ending September 27.
Jun 23, 2026
Celebrate Independence Day at Homestead National Historical Park’s campfire program
Join Park Guide Tanner Christy at Homestead National Historical Park on Saturday, July 4, at 7 p.m. for a campfire program entitled “Icons of America: The American Story and the Homestead Act – America’s 250th Birthday”. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, we will delve into some of the stories of the United States, the icons that shaped us, and how it all connects to the Homestead Act.
Jun 17, 2026
Walk with a ranger at Homestead National Historical Park
Join staff at Homestead National Historical Park’s Education Center on July 1 at 3 p.m. for the monthly walk with a ranger. All ages and abilities are welcome. During the walk, which will take about one hour and cover about a mile of trail, participants will use the prairie and woodland to inspire conversation, learning and sharing. Butterflies, birds and botany are likely topics to be covered.