Max E. Roper Park

A Local's Guide to Roper Park

Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, Max E. Roper Park is one of those places you don't just stumble upon - you need to be in the know. Spanning roughly 33 acres between 10th and Belmont Street to 3rd and Superior Streets, this community space offers a genuine escape from city life without having to leave town.

With its expansive open fields, this park feels like a little secret that locals keep to themselves. It's not flashy or overcrowded, just a peaceful spot where you can breathe a little easier.

Disc Golf Heaven

The 18-hole disc golf course here is a real highlight if you're into flinging discs. It strikes that perfect balance between open fairways and moderately wooded challenges, making it accessible whether you're just learning or have been playing for years.

What's nice is that each hole offers two tee pads and multiple pin positions that get rotated regularly, so the course feels fresh even if you play weekly. The grounds crew keeps the grass trimmed, and the tee pads are designed thoughtfully - nothing fancy, just practical and well-maintained.

A Dog's Paradise

If you're a dog parent, you'll appreciate the thoughtfully designed dog park here. It's split into two areas - one for the big pups and a separate section for smaller dogs, ensuring everyone can play safely.

The large dog section is impressively spacious - walking one lap around this area covers about half a mile. Both sections feature covered shelters where you can chat with fellow dog lovers while your four-legged friend makes new friends.

Note that shade is limited within the dog areas themselves, so bring water for your pup on warm days. The regular visitors here are pretty great - many bring extra gallons of water to share and help keep the communal water dishes filled. It's that kind of place.

Natural Beauty

What gives Roper Park its character are the multiple creek crossings that wind through the landscape. The terrain isn't completely flat either - gentle hills create some elevation changes that make walks more interesting and add some strategy to the disc golf game.

There's a paved walking path that's well-lit if you're looking for an evening stroll or morning jog. The diversity of environments - from open meadows to wooded areas - creates little pockets of habitat for local wildlife and plants, adding to the park's charm.

The Basics

As for amenities, Roper Park keeps it simple. There's a parking lot with plenty of spaces, and scattered within the park are small picnic areas with benches where you can take a break. Both dog park sections also have seating areas.

For restrooms, you'll discover a portable toilet that's maintained regularly. Water sources are located outside the dog park sections, so if you're planning to stay a while, come prepared with your own water.

A Bit of History

This eastern section was once part of what locals knew as Interstate Park until 1993, when it was renamed to honor Max E. Roper. He wasn't a celebrity, just a dedicated city volunteer who gave 31 years of service to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. His commitment to Lincoln's green spaces earned him this lasting recognition - a fitting tribute for someone who helped shape the city's park system.