Imagine an endless, lushly shaded retreat tucked away in its own private wilderness, seemingly miles away from the city. A place where the gentle sounds of nature envelop you, whether you’re strolling along a rustic boardwalk, drinking in a sunset glistening off of the Missouri River, or standing in awe of a wild turkey, deer, or beaver as they cross your path. A place where an easy hike along a dirt trail is as rejuvenating as it is rewarding.
The perfect natural escape can come in many shapes and forms, but there are a few things that the most idyllic natural havens have: solitude, rich green foliage, water, diverse landscapes, endless opportunities for discovery and exploration, and, of course, abundant wildlife! Fortunately, Nebraska is home to multiple wildlife refuges and nature centers that offer unrivaled close-ups of the Cornhusker State’s natural beauty in all of its diversity.
But you don’t have to travel all over the state to get a complete dose of everything that NE has to offer in the way of fauna. For the wildlife-lover who wants to be immersed alongside animals in their natural habitat, there are some places that just can’t be beat. Take a trip to Fontenelle Forest this season and you’ll see what we mean!
Established in 1913, the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center is an unexpectedly idyllic oasis in Southeast Nebraska that stretches for nearly 2000 acres.
Phillip Smith/Google
With over 19 miles of trails winding through dense green forests, breezy meadows, and alongside a picturesque riverfront, it’s not uncommon to find Nebraskans escaping the hustle of nearby Omaha and Bellevue in favor of something a little slower-paced.
Fotia Travis/Google
But camouflaged within the rich foliage is the lifeblood of this ecosystem…
Fotia Travis/Google
Hundreds of species of beautiful, curious, and photo-worthy animals!
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In all shapes and sizes, of course.
Max and Dee Bernt/Flickr
Over 246 species of birds - including 35 multicolored species of warblers alone - make their homes here.
Kelly Colgan Azar/Flickr In fact, Fontenelle Forest has been repeatedly named a “bird-watcher’s paradise” and is known as one of the best birding areas in the country.
Beavers, amphibians, rabbits, insects, deer, and more thrive here, and the caring staff and volunteers are passionate about educating and delighting nature-lovers of all ages.
Fontenelle Forest/Facebook
Regular raptor demonstrations include bald eagles, hawks, vultures, owls, and other animal introductions.
Cristina Jurca/Google
Fontenelle Forest/Facebook Every year, thousands of visitors come through the center to explore and learn about nature through these live animal lectures and classes, birds of prey demonstrations at the Raptor Recovery Center, kids camps, guided hikes, and more. With all-seasons programming, there’s always an opportunity to visit and get up-close and personal with the animal residents!
But it’s not all majestic raptors here. Some of our state’s earth-bound feathered friends can be found as well!
Kelly Colgan Azar/Flickr
You can easily spend an entire weekend exploring Fontenelle Forest and all that it has to offer, so visitors would be wise to have their cameras ready!
Fontenelle Forest/Facebook You never know what adorable creature will poke its head out of the brush next.
Or, for a truly unique way to enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife, kayaking down the Missouri River is an experience that can’t be beat.
Fontenelle Forest/Facebook
Whether walking or floating - it’s true that you might not see every single one of the over 400 species of wildlife that live here. But you’re bound to catch a view or two that makes the visit memorable.
Ryan Boganowski/Google And you’re definitely going to find a favorite spot to come back to again and again!
There are literally hundreds of reasons to love this slice of Nebraskan beauty! Always remember to keep a safe distance from all wildlife and be respectful of your surroundings on your visit.
Phillip Smith/Google
Fotia Travis/Google
smarko/pixabay
Max and Dee Bernt/Flickr
Kelly Colgan Azar/Flickr
In fact, Fontenelle Forest has been repeatedly named a “bird-watcher’s paradise” and is known as one of the best birding areas in the country.
Fontenelle Forest/Facebook
Cristina Jurca/Google
Every year, thousands of visitors come through the center to explore and learn about nature through these live animal lectures and classes, birds of prey demonstrations at the Raptor Recovery Center, kids camps, guided hikes, and more. With all-seasons programming, there’s always an opportunity to visit and get up-close and personal with the animal residents!
You never know what adorable creature will poke its head out of the brush next.
Ryan Boganowski/Google
And you’re definitely going to find a favorite spot to come back to again and again!
The hours of operation for the Nature Center are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., but extended hiking hours are available to members. Admission rates can vary, so.be sure to follow the Fontenelle Forest Facebook page and website to stay up to date on special events!
Ready to see even more of Nebraska’s wildlife? To get up close and personal with some of NE’s larger residents, this wildlife safari is the perfect weekend adventure!
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