LOUISVILLE, Neb. - Visits to Midlands parks and recreation areas have boomed this season with the aid of pleasant weather, last weekend notwithstanding.

Stan and Judy Pasko had air conditioning in their camping unit late last week and early this week at Louisville State Recreation Area in eastern Nebraska. That made a big difference.

"We're staying for a week," said Stan Pasko of Plattsmouth, Neb.

"We're staying for 10 days," said his 5-year-old granddaughter, Victoria Molkenbur, also of Plattsmouth.

They were both right. Pasko had the misfortune of having to work at least a couple of days this week at his job in Omaha.

"It's a little warm," Pasko said while relaxing at the recreation area Saturday. "But you know what? A day camping is better than a day working anytime."

Park administrators in Nebraska and Iowa said the outdoor recreation season this year began early and has generally thrived since.