McNenny State Fish Hatchery
A free state fish hatchery offering a unique look at aquatic life, with exceptional stargazing and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the fish
McNenny State Fish Hatchery
Best Time
See the fish
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free state fish hatchery offering a unique look at aquatic life, with exceptional stargazing and wildlife viewing opportunities.
"Incredible stargazing and wildlife spotting, but be mindful of strict weekday operating hours for fish viewing. "
🎯 Respect Operating Hours
Visit between 8 AM and 4 PM on weekdays. Showing up outside these times means no fish viewing. :clock1:
✨ Pack for the Night Sky
Minimal light pollution makes it ideal for stargazing, especially during meteor showers. :star2:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fish Viewing
Observe various fish species being raised. A highlight for many, especially those with a keen interest in aquatic life.
Stargazing at Mirror Lake
Experience incredible night skies with minimal light pollution. Perfect for meteor showers and observing the Milky Way.
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for local fauna like deer, raccoons, possums, and owls, especially during dawn or dusk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Hatchery Hours
Prepare for Limited Connectivity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Respect Operating Hours
Visit between 8 AM and 4 PM on weekdays. Showing up outside these times means no fish viewing. :clock1:
✨ Pack for the Night Sky
Minimal light pollution makes it ideal for stargazing, especially during meteor showers. :star2:
🚗 Navigate Dirt Roads
The drive involves dirt roads; ensure your vehicle is suitable. No cell service, so plan your route. :oncoming_automobile:
🚫 No Entrance Fee
Enjoy the natural beauty and fish viewing without any admission cost. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Respect Operating Hours
Visit between 8 AM and 4 PM on weekdays. Showing up outside these times means no fish viewing. :clock1:
✨ Pack for the Night Sky
Minimal light pollution makes it ideal for stargazing, especially during meteor showers. :star2:
🚗 Navigate Dirt Roads
The drive involves dirt roads; ensure your vehicle is suitable. No cell service, so plan your route. :oncoming_automobile:
🚫 No Entrance Fee
Enjoy the natural beauty and fish viewing without any admission cost. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
McNenny State Fish Hatchery offers a free glimpse into fish cultivation and boasts exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution. While the staff are knowledgeable, visitors must strictly adhere to weekday operating hours to see the fish, as weekend closures can lead to disappointment. The natural setting also provides opportunities for wildlife spotting.
"You have a 98 year old father with us and he seen the fish have to sign and got all excited said he wanted to go see the fish we drove all the way back to the fish hatchery on the dirt road and surprised to see that we're not allowed to see the fish you got to go somewhere else that's ridiculous."
Toby Davis
"No cell phone service here but no fees to enter"
Jennifer Peterson
"Star Gazing...
I was at the Fish Hatchery for the peak of the Perseid meteor shower (2023). There's minimal light pollution and it's an incredible area by Mirror Lake.
The night sky was crystal clear and the beautiful Milky Way stretched across the heavens. Between 2 and 4am, I saw maybe a dozen big bright fireballs streak by and many smaller meteorites grazed our atmosphere with more subtle trails. It was a wonderful time.
I also saw 6 deer, 2 raccoon, 1 possum and a Great Horned Owl that briefly landed in a tree near me...it was a busy place!"
Goldie Hettinga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The hatchery is accessed via dirt roads. It's recommended to have a reliable vehicle and download offline maps as there is no cell phone service in the area.
While the roads are dirt, following directions carefully should lead you there. Be prepared for a rural setting with limited signage.
The access roads are unpaved dirt roads. Drive cautiously, especially after rain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no fee to enter the McNenny State Fish Hatchery. It's a free attraction for visitors.
The hatchery is open from 8 AM to 4 PM, but it is closed on weekends and holidays. It's crucial to check these hours before visiting.
No, the hatchery is closed on weekends and holidays. Weekday visits are required to see the fish.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can observe various fish species being raised. The surrounding area, especially Mirror Lake, is also great for wildlife spotting and stargazing.
No, there is no cell phone service available at McNenny State Fish Hatchery.
Visitors have reported seeing deer, raccoons, possums, and Great Horned Owls.
Yes, the minimal light pollution makes it an incredible spot for stargazing, particularly near Mirror Lake.
🎫 🎣 Fishing
While the hatchery raises fish, the reviews mention great fishing in the vicinity, suggesting nearby opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌌 Stargazers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fish Hatchery Experience
Visitors have expressed that the staff are knowledgeable and helpful when encountered during operating hours. The hatchery itself is situated in a natural setting, contributing to the overall appeal for those interested in conservation and aquatic life.
Beyond the Fish: Nature and Night Skies
Crucially, McNenny State Fish Hatchery boasts minimal light pollution, making it an exceptional location for stargazing. During events like the Perseid meteor shower, the clear night skies provide a spectacular display of meteors and the Milky Way. This aspect of the hatchery's location is highly praised by those who have experienced it.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit