Susan Picotte Park
Rate this placeNearby: Autumn Heights Park Ponca Plains Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Susan Picotte Park is a charming recreational area located in the state of Nebraska, known for its picturesque landscapes and a variety of attractions.
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Summary
This summary is compiled from information obtained from multiple independent sources to ensure accuracy.
Reasons to Visit:
1. Natural Beauty: Susan Picotte Park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of Nebraska's outdoors. The park features lush greenery, rolling hills, and several bodies of water, providing a peaceful and serene environment.
2. Outdoor Recreation: The park provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and picnicking. With well-maintained trails, fishing ponds, and picnic areas, visitors can enjoy a leisurely day amidst nature.
3. Historical Significance: Susan LaFlesche Picotte, the park's namesake, was the first Native American woman to earn a medical degree in the United States. This park pays homage to her contributions and provides insight into the region's history and culture.
Points of Interest:
1. Susan LaFlesche Picotte Memorial: The park features a memorial dedicated to Susan LaFlesche Picotte, showcasing her achievements and contributions to the field of medicine. The memorial serves as a historical landmark and offers a glimpse into the life of this remarkable woman.
2. Hiking Trails: Susan Picotte Park boasts a network of well-marked hiking trails that wind through the scenic landscapes. These trails cater to all skill levels, allowing visitors to explore the park's beauty and connect with nature.
3. Fishing Ponds: Fishing enthusiasts will find the park's fishing ponds a delightful spot to cast their lines. The ponds are stocked with a variety of fish species, providing ample opportunities for a peaceful day of fishing.
Interesting Facts:
1. Susan LaFlesche Picotte, the park's namesake, was a member of the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska and dedicated her life to providing healthcare to her community.
2. The park is situated near the town of Walthill in northeastern Nebraska, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike.
3. Susan Picotte Park is managed by the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska, showcasing their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and promoting outdoor recreation.
Best Time of Year to Visit:
The best time to visit Susan Picotte Park is during the spring and summer months (April to September). During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the park's landscapes are adorned with vibrant colors and lush vegetation. Additionally, fishing in the ponds is more productive during the spring and summer seasons.
While this summary provides reliable information based on multiple independent sources, it is recommended to verify specific details and access any park regulations or updates before visiting Susan Picotte Park.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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