ECOTOURISM

Named one of Nebraska’s “Eight Great Ecotourism Opportunities” by the University of Nebraska, Big Blue Ranch & Lodge offers an unparalleled escape into nature.

With only 4% of the region’s tallgrass prairie remaining, our ranch is an ecological treasure. Featuring groves of trees, expansive ponds, and a mix of original and restored grasslands, the landscape is a haven for biodiversity. Generations of sustainable stewardship have nurtured this ecological gem through practices like rotational grazing, inter-seeding beneficial plants, and controlled burning.

A Sanctuary for Wildlife

The ranch’s diverse habitats—open prairie, woodlands, lakes, and draws—are home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Visitors may encounter whitetail deer, turkeys, raccoons, badgers, ground squirrels, coyotes, foxes, bobcats, and more. Amphibians like toads, leopard frogs, and bullfrogs thrive near the ponds, while fireflies light up the summer evenings.

The Greater Prairie Chicken Dance

One of the ranch’s most celebrated residents is the Greater Prairie Chicken. Each spring, visitors from across the globe come to witness the mesmerizing mating dance of these unique birds. From a comfortable observation blind, you can watch the males stomp, jump, strut, cackle, and boom in a captivating display. Whether you view it with the naked eye, binoculars, or a camera lens, this experience is not to be missed.

Evenings to Remember

As the day winds down, step onto the porch to watch the sun set over our 20-acre lake. Listen for the haunting calls of coyotes, the hoots of great horned owls, and the gobbles of wild turkeys. The peace and natural beauty of the ranch offer a sense of freedom and serenity.

When night falls, the skies above Big Blue Ranch transform into a stargazer’s paradise. Free from light pollution, the ranch offers breathtaking views of the Milky Way and constellations. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply looking to marvel at the stars, the night sky here is unforgettable.

Plan Your Nature Getaway

Big Blue Ranch & Lodge invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Nebraska’s prairie. From wildlife watching to stargazing, every moment here connects you with nature.