There’s something about the woods at night that causes the imagination to run wild. A forest can be enchanting or sinister; often, both at the same time. (You’ll find this in any fairy tale – Grimm Brothers or Disney.) Here in Nebraska, there’s a park that’s long been believed to be a place of both good and evil, depending on when you visit. An idyllic, 200-acre park in Omaha, Hummel Park has been the subject of lore and legends since the early 1900s. The stories vary, but the consensus is this: Hummel Park in Omaha is haunted… in fact, it might just be the most haunted place in Nebraska.

Hummel Park in Omaha is undeniably beautiful. But it's also said to be one of the most haunted places in Nebraska.
Brandon Stradling/Google Local
The park's moniker honors J.B. Hummel, a longtime superintendent of the Omaha Parks and Recreation Department.
Pamela Ahlers/Google Local
But despite this heartwarming tribute, Hummel Park is a place steeped in a sinister history... is Hummel Park haunted?
Rumored to be built on the site of an ancient Native American burial ground, Hummel Park may have been destined for darkness from the beginning.
Jennifer Imnottellinu/Google Local
Visitors often feel something unsettling about this haunted park in Omaha, with its steep hills, deep ravines, and winding dirt roads.
Mary Ellis/Google Local
And some of the park's most beautiful features are, in fact, the most dangerous.
Everett Henry/Google Local
For example, a scenic overlook at the eastern edge of the park has been dubbed "Devil’s Slide" due to the many suicides that have taken place there. Time and erosion have washed the area free from trees and natural barriers, resulting in sudden drop-offs that seem to crumble beneath your feet.
The forest canopy contains many secrets, too; its bowing trees are believed to have been the site of lynchings in the early 1900s.
Husker Nation/Google Local
Many believe these woods are haunted as a result. Park visitors claim to hear screams and cries coming from the trees late at night. (For what it's worth, there are no historical accounts of lynchings taking place in the park.)

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But that's just the beginning. An abandoned shelter at the park is believed to be a bastion of Biblical heresy.
Seth M. Jennings/Google Local
Spray-painted markings, such as inverted pentagrams, along with an unusual amount of dead animal carcasses, suggest Hummel Park could be a center for satanic rituals and the occult.
But one of the most pervasive rumors about Hummel Park involves a seemingly innocuous staircase.
Jennifer Imnottellinu/Google Local
At the top of the park, there's a long, stone staircase known as the "Morphing Stairs.”
Jennifer Imnottellinu/Google Local
These stairs are said to morph because it's hard to pinpoint the exact number of stairs in the staircase.
Husker Nation/Google Local
Each time a person counts the number going up or down, a different number is calculated on the return trip.
It's a puzzling phenomenon, and it definitely makes Hummel Park seem even more mysterious.
Scott McCoid/Google Local
Of course, by day, Hummel Park is a beloved place for outdoor recreation in Omaha. Its trails and trees prove an escape in Nebraska nature and its overlooks offer perfect panoramas.
Mary Ellis/Google Local
But by night, Hummel Park becomes a horse of a different color. Full of rumors and mystery, the park is a fascinating destination for supernatural enthusiasts and skeptics alike.

Want more evidence? Check out this YouTube video by Backroads Tourist telling you more about haunted Hummel Park.

What do you believe? Is Hummel Park haunted? Or are these century-old stories simply rumors that have snowballed over time? Whatever you believe, Hummel Park in Omaha may not be a place you want to be after dark. Share your thoughts with us in the comments – we’d love to hear from you!

Curious to learn more about all things creepy in Nebraska? Definitely check out this guide to Nebraska’s most haunted places and attractions… if you dare! Also, here are some more fun adventures in Omaha that you will love.

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Haunted Park In Omaha

Beth C. | August 26, 2022

What are the most haunted places in Nebraska?

There's no denying it -- Nebraska is filled with haunted locations that will make you think twice about visiting alone. In fact, we've put together a list of the 20 most haunted places in Nebraska, and they're certainly not for the faint of heart. At the top of the list is a place known as the Alliance Theater. This landmark was built over 100 years ago in 1903 and it originally served as the Charter Hotel. Employees of the theater today have noticed strange phenomena such as shadowy figures moving across the floor as well as the sound of running footsteps. Fortunately, all accounts seem to point to the ghost being a friendly one. Phew!

Another haunted place you might not want to visit after dark is known as Ball Cemetery in Springfield. Wander through this cemetery alone and you might just notice the ghost of a tall man following you. Some other haunted places in Nebraska include Barnard Park, Blackbird Hill, the Bailey House Museum, and Centennial Hall.

Are there any haunted hotels in Nebraska?

One of the most famous haunted hotels in Nebraska is called the Chadron House. This visually stunning hotel has operated since the 1800s and served as General Nelson Miles' headquarters at one point. Visit the hotel today and you might observe some paranormal activity such as two friendly ghosts by the name of Anna and Jack wandering about. Some other haunted places to stay in Nebraska include the Arrow Hotel in Broken Bow, the Argo Hotel in Crofton, the Old Harder Hotel in Scribner, and the McCabe Hotel in North Platte.

What are some of the most haunted cemeteries in Nebraska? 

If you’re searching for your next spooky adventure, here are some of the most haunted cemeteries in Nebraska that will give you goosebumps. 

 

Read our previous article telling you more about these haunted cemeteries in Nebraska. 

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Hummel Park Nature Center, 3033 Hummel Rd, Omaha, NE 68112, Omaha, NE 68112, USA