If you want to get technical about it, Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge isn't actually hidden. But it's one of the lesser known natural areas in the state, and the first time you visit you will be absolutely blown away. Just try to look at the pictures without feeling impressed.
Located about 30 miles north of Oshkosh, Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge is tucked into the western edge of the Sandhills.
It sits atop the Ogallala Aquifer, which feeds the 21 lakes and lots of smaller ponds on the refuge's 46,000 acres.
The Sandhills region was formed after the great inland sea which once covered Nebraska receded.
The sand which was left behind blew into vast, rolling dunes that became anchored by grasses and other plants. The Sandhills evolved into a beautiful and ecologically diverse area. The area on which Crescent Lake NWR sits has been largely untouched, left to impress visitors in its natural state.
The refuge was established in 1931 as a haven and breeding ground for migratory birds.
Approximately 200 species of birds - including waterfowl, marsh birds, shorebirds, raptors, gulls, and more - have been documented here in the past several decades. Two pairs of bald eagles nest at Crescent Lake NWR - if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse.
Though the area is focused on conservation and scenic views, hunting and fishing are allowed here.
The auto tour through the refuge is truly one of the most beautiful drives in all of Nebraska. There just aren't words to describe it - you have to experience this beauty firsthand.
Mule deer and whitetail deer are among some of the most common wildlife you'll encounter here.
But many more animals inhabit the refuge, including tiny mice, porcupines, beavers, opossums, whitetail jackrabbits, bats, prairie dogs, foxes, skunks, and more.
Although uncommon, you may spot graceful pronghorns here.
Even more rare are sightings of bobcats, though they do happen from time to time.
The refuge is also home to many species of plants, from the abundant to the endangered.
The Sandhills region is an exceptionally diverse ecosystem, and this untamed area is positively teeming with all types of flora and fauna.
No one really tries to keep Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge a secret - it's simply more remote and less well-known than some of the other wildlife refuges in Nebraska. But make the trip to Garden County and you'll definitely feel like you've stumbled across something magical and hidden. And the best part? It's highly unlikely that you'll run across another human while you're there.
The refuge is open year-round during daylight hours, and admission is free. For more information, visit the US Fish & Wildlife Service site.
If you're hungry for some unique adventures in Nebraska, check out our 14 suggestions right here.
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