There aren’t many urban spaces where you can go to enjoy wildlife in its natural habitat. There’s one wetland sanctuary right in Omaha where you can walk the trails, admire the animals, and feel like you’re a million miles from the city.
Heron Haven is a unique place for several reasons. It’s one of the last oxbow wetlands of the Big Papillion Creek, it’s an important conservation and research location, and it’s located within Omaha city limits.
Google Local/Shelby Urich
It provides a safe place for wetland birds and a slew of other creatures.
Facebook/Heron Haven
The flora and fauna you’ll see depend on the time of year you visit. Migratory birds stop in and butterflies and bees are everywhere in the summer.
Google Local/Jeffrey Hamilton
Visitors are welcome to come and wander the trails from dawn to dusk, all year round. Be sure to stop by the butterfly garden in the summer for a little bit of magic.
Google Local/Rick Jensen
Watch your surroundings as you walk - you just might spot some sneaky creatures camouflaged in the water and in the grass.
Google Local/Jennifer Carbonell
You might think that a wetland sanctuary in the city would be loud and packed with people, but it’s actually very serene.
Google Local/Chef Ray Lemar
Many Omaha residents don’t even realize it’s there. It’s one of those places that you don’t typically stumble upon by accident.
Google Local/Tori Winter
One of the highlights of this magnificent place is the boardwalk trail.
Google Local/Rick Jensen
It leads you out over the water for a unique look at the surroundings. You’ll be surrounded by water, which is a unique experience that just about everyone can enjoy.
Google Local/Ben Biddle
Heron Haven is a popular spot for photographers. Whether they’re snapping pics of animals or capturing the beauty of the water, you’re pretty much guaranteed to see some shutterbugs out there.
Google Local/Dan Keats
In fact, there are even blinds to hide behind so you can observe the wildlife without scaring the animals off.
Phillip Power
While it is a beautiful place for a visit, Heron Haven is also dedicated to education for all ages.
Google Local/Chef Ray Lemar
Informative lectures, classes, and presentations take place regularly in the Nature Center.
Google Local/Scott E
The Nature Center is open by appointment only, but it’s worth making an appointment. Inside you’ll find a reference library with interesting educational materials to sift through.
Google Local/Chef Ray Lemar
The Nature Center also contains a small nature museum. Nature displays let you see some neat items up close.
Google Local/Anastasia Estrada
Address: 11809 Old Maple Road, Omaha, NE, 68164
Google Local/Shelby Urich
Facebook/Heron Haven
Google Local/Jeffrey Hamilton
Google Local/Rick Jensen
Google Local/Jennifer Carbonell
Google Local/Chef Ray Lemar
Google Local/Tori Winter
Google Local/Ben Biddle
Google Local/Dan Keats
Phillip Power
Google Local/Scott E
Google Local/Anastasia Estrada
Walking the trails is always free, but donations are gratefully accepted. To find out more about classes, clubs, and upcoming events, visit Heron Haven’s website. Happy wildlife watching!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
