Hitchcock Nature Center

I decided to go primitive camping here before the big camping season begins (Memorial Weekend). It was very peaceful, well kept and beautiful. You could tell that people abide by the Leave No Trace mentality - which was great. My only negative mention (and the reason for 4 stars instead of 5) is that I was unaware that the marked off spot for tents would be a small rock pit. So I unfortunately didn't bring my sleeping mat. My back was injured on my first deployment to Iraq and that made sleeping at this site rough without one. Take heed if you are considering the primitive camp sites here. Also worth mentioning, the particular site I stayed at was literally adjacent to the trail. So you will see people. I will also include photos from my ruck in and at the Fox Run site I stayed at.
4 6 years ago (23-05-2018)

It's a bit of drive from Omaha, but well worth it for the hiking. Hills, well marked trails with varying levels of difficulty. Not a ton of mileage but you can make up for that with the hill climbs. The camping is excellent. Firewood delivered. Well maintained and seems to be improving every time I go.
4 7 years ago (06-03-2018)

Beautiful. Trails, a lookout deck and lookout tower, camping. This place is a hidden little gem. Breathtaking scenery, and scenic trails.
5 7 years ago (17-04-2018)

Hitchcock nature center is the best hiking trails in the Omaha area. Trails are well maintained and there are maps in the beginning for those who need them. The ridge trails have always been my favorite. There are bathrooms and water fountains on site!
5 7 years ago (09-03-2018)

One of Iowa’s special natural areas--truly a gem. I visited on a 10 degree day and it was well worth it.
5 7 years ago (22-03-2018)