The Muddy Creek Ranch

Land Description

Located just outside Stratton, Nebraska, this expansive 3,154 acre property offers a prime mix of agricultural and ranching opportunity. With 2,476 acres of quality pasture, 68 acres of irrigated farmland, and 590 acres of productive dryland, the land supports both livestock and crop operations. A highlight of the property is the 2.2 miles of year-round flowing Muddy Creek, providing reliable water access and enhancing the natural beauty.

Land

This exceptional 3,154 acre ranch and farm property offers a balanced mix of productive farmland, expansive pasture, and scenic creek bottoms. The property includes approximately 2,476+/- acres of well-fenced pastureland featuring moderate canyon terrain that provides excellent grazing conditions and natural protection for livestock. The landscape is open and expansive, offering panoramic views and ideal ranching conditions.

The farmable acreage totals roughly 658+/- acres, consisting of 68+/- acres under pivot irrigation and 590+/- acres of dryland farmland. These croplands are high-quality with predominantly flat terrain, supporting strong yields and offering versatility for a variety of crops. The irrigated portion adds value and consistency to the overall agricultural productivity of the property.

Adding to its appeal, the ranch is enhanced by natural water features, including lush creek bottoms with live water from Muddy Creek and seasonal flow from Spring Branch Creek. These waterways contribute to the ecological diversity and provide vital water sources for livestock and wildlife.

This ranch and farm combination presents an outstanding opportunity for cattle production, farming, and recreation, all set in a picturesque and productive setting that combines natural beauty with agricultural utility.

Improvements

This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers 1,248 square feet of comfortable living space. The location is very private and sits just off the banks of Muddy Creek. The home has been upgraded with some new carpet and flooring. There is a galley kitchen with dining room and the laundry room is located on the main level. Outside, mature landscaping surrounds the home, complemented by a cedar windbreak that adds both beauty and privacy. Ideal for nature lovers, this home offers peaceful views and a welcoming, move-in-ready space.

Recreation

This exceptional recreational property offers a rare combination of prime hunting habitat, diverse wildlife, and scenic natural beauty. With over 2 miles of Muddy Creek winding through the land, the property boasts a rich mix of terrain-from cottonwood-lined creek bottoms to rugged canyon pastures. Additionally there are multiple small sub-irrigated fields along the creek that could be utilized for food plots for wildlife.

Wildlife is abundant and varied, making this a true sportsman's paradise. The creek bottom is a haven for wild turkeys and the occasional white-tailed deer, drawn to the shelter of mature cottonwoods and the year-round water source. The canyon pastures, with their open terrain, are teeming with mule deer, which are especially prevalent throughout the area.

In addition to big game, the property supports excellent upland bird hunting, with strong populations of pheasants and bobwhite quail thriving in the varied grasslands and brushy cover. Varmint hunting opportunities also abound, adding to the recreational versatility of the land.

Whether you're seeking a private hunting retreat, a legacy property, or a multi-season getaway for outdoor adventure, this tract offers unmatched opportunity in a truly unique setting.

Agriculture

This versatile combination farm and ranch encompasses approximately, 3154+/- total acres, offering a balanced mix of productive farmland and quality pastureland. The property is well-suited for both crop production and livestock operations, featuring diverse land resources and robust water infrastructure.

68+/- acres of pivot-irrigated farmland provide reliable and efficient crop production potential. Ideal for growing a variety of row crops or hay, this irrigated acreage enhances the farm's productivity and operational flexibility.

590a+/- acres of dryland farmland complement the irrigated ground, suitable for cereal crops, hay production, or rotational grazing. This acreage adds valuable diversification to the operation.

2,476+/- acres of strong pastureland offer excellent grazing capacity for cattle or other livestock. The grassland is well-maintained and capable of supporting a sizable herd, making it a cornerstone of the property's ranching potential.

Water is abundant and well-distributed across the property. An extensive pipeline system supplies multiple livestock water tanks strategically located throughout the ranch, ensuring consistent water access. Additionally, Muddy Creek meanders through the property from east to west, serving as a natural and reliable year-round water source for livestock.

On the east side of the ranch, near the main road, there is a well-designed corral setup providing convenient access for handling, sorting, and loading livestock.

This property offers an outstanding opportunity for a diversified agricultural operation with a well-integrated balance of farmland and ranchland. Whether for a working cattle ranch, row-crop farming, or a combination thereof, the land is well-equipped to support productive and profitable use. The fencing is in very good condition with several miles of the perimeter fence being good condition 4 strand barbed wire.

Region & Climate

Stratton, Nebraska experiences a semi-arid climate an a significant number of sunny days throughout the year, contributing to its pleasant climate characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and moderate precipitation. Average annual precipitation is around 20 inches, with the majority falling during the late spring and summer months, often from thunderstorms. Winters are typically dry with occasional snowfall. Average temperatures in the area are upper 80's in the early summer with temps reaching the 90's in late July and August. Winter temps average the mid 20's-low 30's. The area has many sunny days with clear skies.

According to data from Weather-Us, Stratton experiences an average of 24.9 sunny days in January, 21.3 in February, 21.8 in March, 17.8 in April, 15.6 in May, and 16.0 in June. The trend continues with 16.8 sunny days in July, 18.8 in August, 20.9 in September, 23.5 in October, 25.6 in November, and 25.4 in December.

These figures suggest that Stratton experiences a substantial amount of sunshine year-round, with November being the sunniest month, averaging 25.6 sunny days. The month with the fewest sunny days is May, with 15.6. This consistent sunshine contributes to a positive mood, reduces stress levels, and enhances overall well-being for residents and visitors alike.

The region's native grasses are well-adapted to the variable moisture and temperature extremes. Dominant native grass species include Big Bluestem, Little Bluestem, Sideoats Grama, Buffalo grass and Blue Grama as well as other prairie grasses. The pastures also have a smattering of plum thickets and Yucca.

History

Stratton is a small village located in Hitchcock County, in southwestern Nebraska. Founded in the 1880S during the westward expansion of the railroad, Stratton was established as a station along the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad. The town quickly became a hub for agriculture and commerce, serving local farming communities.

Hitchcock County was officially organized in 1886 and named after U.S. Senator Phineas W. Hitchcock. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Pawnee and Sioux. Settlement began in earnest after the passage of the Homestead Act and the expansion of the railroad system, which brought in pioneers seeking farmland and opportunity. Agriculture, particularly wheat and corn farming, has long been the backbone of the county's economy.

Today, both Stratton and Hitchcock County retain their rural charm and agricultural roots, reflecting the pioneering spirit of early settlers and the continuing importance of farming in Nebraska's history.