Hickory Creek West - John Redmond Reservoir

The air carries the sharp scent of fresh earth and wood smoke as you turn off West Hickory Creek Road, the gravel crunching under tires that have traveled miles across Kansas plains. Here at Hickory Creek West by John Redmond Reservoir, the landscape opens to wide stretches of green interrupted by clusters of tall hickory trees swaying gently in the breeze. Early morning mist lingers over the water’s edge, where the quiet lap of waves sets a steady rhythm for the day ahead. This isn’t just a stopover—it’s a place where calm settles deep into your bones, drawing you back season after season.

Sunrise nudges campers awake to explore the reservoir’s shoreline, where anglers cast lines in hopes of reeling in crappie and bass. The Hickory Creek Trail traces nearby, winding through shaded groves and offering glimpses of deer darting between the underbrush. Birdsong punctuates the air, with bluebirds and orioles flitting among the branches. For those eager to stretch beyond the campsite, the nearby Neosho River Trail provides a scenic route for bikers and hikers, tracing river bends and open fields. The town of Ottumwa rests about 15 miles east, a small hub for supplies or a quick meal before returning to the quiet woods.

Campers settle into generously spaced sites where tall hickories provide dappled shade throughout the day. Fire rings crackle with warmth as evening falls, while picnic tables invite shared meals and stories. The campground offers well-maintained vault toilets and potable water, ensuring comfort without sacrificing the rustic feel. There’s no WiFi here, and cell signals waver, encouraging visitors to disconnect and immerse themselves fully in nature’s pace. The soft rustle of leaves and occasional call of a barred owl create a natural soundtrack that replaces the usual digital buzz.

When night drapes its dark velvet over the reservoir, the stars emerge vivid and countless, their reflections flickering on the water’s surface. It’s this quiet, unspoken connection with the land and water that keeps people returning to Hickory Creek West, where simple pleasures—like the crackle of a campfire and the whisper of creek water—remind campers why they came in the first place.