Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge – North Parking & Trailhead

Super dirty and sketchy. Pulled in to go for a hike, nope! Smashed window glass, garbage, and houseless encampments

I've been walking through Oaks Bottom for year's and not once have I had a bad experience here. The closest I've ever gotten to any real trouble was an encounter with a female raccoon and her 3 babies. Luckily momma gave me a nice loud growl before taking any action and I was able to divert the situation safely. You'll encounter many wildlife down there, skunks, racoons and the occasional opossums and many deer. The homeless folks set-up camp down there often, only on the river trail and usually well off the main trail. They keep to themselves and i personally have never had any problems with them other than the mess they tend to make and leave behind. Sometimes I'll take my grabbers and a couple of trash bags along with and clean up any discarded camps I come across. You can place the bags alongside the spring water bike path and the city crews will come scoop them up. Overall, it's a nice place to enjoy a little nature that's extremely convenient and pleasant. I love the spot and highly recommend it.

Lovely spot close to home!

For a hike in an urban area, it's pretty wonderful.

Great place for family's