Amenities
The Cabin
Nestled on 21.5 wooded acres on the banks of the Big Blue River, a rustic (but modernized) 40’ X 40’ cabin is surrounded by 100-year-old oak trees. It has a fully functional modern kitchen and a single modern restroom inside and can accommodate up to 40 to 50 seated guests in its stone fireplace adorned main room. Behind the cabin sits a gently sloped amphitheater with an elevated deck stage that can accommodate most any type of performance or event for an audience of up to 500 persons. Two, sturdy wood and steel pedestrian bridges compliment over a mile of walking trails. Outdoor picnic tables on the cabin lawn seat over 50 persons and two bonfire rings are available for hot dog roasting and s’mores! This gorgeous setting is just a 30-minute drive from Lincoln and has the ability to handle both large and small public or private events. The Cabin is the perfect spot for your next scouting adventure, wedding, corporate event, scenic photo shoot, family or class reunion.
In 2017, the facility was taken over by the newly formed Crete Youth Cabin Association, Inc. and is now a 501(c)(3) NON-PROFIT. Its mission is to preserve and improve the property for youth, both now and for future generations. It is operated solely on modest revenues from rentals and the generous donations of benefactors.
The cabin is open year-round but obvious winter weather limitations exist with this primarily outdoor venue.
The rustic 40’X40’ cabin was built in 1938 and retains is authenticity and charm. It features a large stone fireplace in the main room. There is a fully modern kitchen facility at the rear of the cabin, and a single modern ADA compliant restroom near the main meeting room. There are a number of folding tables and approximately 50 folding chairs that can be configured for any meeting or dining setup inside the cabin. There are ceiling fans in both the main room and the kitchen and the cabin sides can be opened to provide a screened, open air atmosphere inside. These, plus a powerful kitchen exhaust fan and the shade from surrounding trees helps keep the interior cool even in the warmest seasons. In colder weather, the fireplace will provide some heat, but it should be noted that there is no central heat or A/C in the cabin.
Modern Kitchen
A large modern kitchen includes two large refrigerator/freezer units, an electronic double-oven range, hot and cold (potable) running water at the double basin sink and ample counter and food preparation space with numerous electrical outlets for small appliances. There are two antique dumbwaiter windows for serving into the main room if desired. Due to freezing, water is shut off from approximately November 1 to April 1 but is available in the restroom and at frost proof hydrants outside year-round.
Restrooms
Currently, there is one single modern restroom inside the cabin. It is ADA compliant. There is hot and cold running water at the sink and one flushing toilet fixture. This restroom is heated during the winter months and the water service that supplies it is kept on year-round. Additionally, there is a gender-divided latrine housed outside and convenient to the cabin. It is equipped with electric lighting and fiberglass fixtures with seats and lids, but it does not function with the septic system. We are currently planning to replace the outdoor latrine with 24’x24’ sanitary gender-divided restroom & shower structure during 2021.
Bonfire Rings
There are two large and two small bonfire/campfire pits located on the property. They include additional adjacent picnic table seating. Firewood can be gathered in the woods or split firewood is available for purchase.
Outdoor Picnic Tables
There are 6 picnic tables on concrete pads in front of the cabin. These tables will accommodate 48 persons for picnicking or outdoor crafts. There are additional tables near the bonfire pits.
Amphitheater and Stage
Immediately behind the cabin there is a gently sloping outdoor amphitheater. The audience area is a well-groomed lawn that accommodates both folding chair seating as well as blankets or lawn chairs for up to 500 guests. Centered at its base is a 24’x16’ elevated deck stage. Electrical service at the rear of the stage is adequate to support any sound or lighting scenario for any type of performance or presentation. The two-step elevation at the front of the stage lends itself to use as an altar for weddings or religious presentations. Concession services can be located at the rear of the cabin which is at the top of the audience area. This is easily serviced from the kitchen at the rear of the cabin.
Walking Trails and Bridges
Approximately one mile in total length, the trail takes you across two, sturdy wood and steel trestle bridges, through wooded forest, along the bank of the Big Blue River, and provides access to a remote meadow where a hike-in camp ground awaits. With careful observation while walking, one can frequently observe nearly all types of wildlife germane to this area. Benches and seating are placed along the trail for rest and relaxation along the way.
Parking
A large flat mowed field will easily accommodate up to 125 cars. In addition, an adjacent field will handle overflow of up to 50 more cars
Archery Range
A range for archery and BB rifles and pistols competition is located on the southwest corner of the property. The site features a natural 30’ high cliff backstop providing ultimate safety and a clear, level and safe shooting aisle. This feature is functional now, but our plans are to further develop the feature with in-ground yardage markers, a target backstop and other amenities.