Camping sites near Julesburg, Colorado provide convenient overnight stops for travelers at the intersection of Interstate 76 and Interstate 80. The region transitions between Mountain and Central time zones, requiring travelers to adjust watches when crossing state lines into Nebraska. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically in this high plains environment, with strong winds common throughout spring and fall months.
What to do
Water recreation at Jumbo Reservoir: Located about 40 miles southwest of Julesburg, this wildlife area offers fishing and paddleboarding opportunities. "We stayed for two nights and really had a great time. Soft ground made it an easy set up for camp. Nice and quiet during the evening and a great spot for paddleboarding too!" notes Caleb K. about Jumbo Reservoir State Wildlife Area.
Bird watching excursions: The Ogallala region provides excellent wildlife viewing, particularly for birders. "If you are a bird watcher, head north to crescent lake and see the burrowing owls, long billied curlew, or a vast amount of other birds," recommends Charles C. from Cedar View Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Ogallala offers trout fishing in a quieter setting than neighboring Lake McConaughy. "There is good trout fishing here and excellent bird watching. We saw the Long-billed Curlew, Burrowing Owl, and several other birds checked off our bucket list," reports Charles C., who found the smaller lake less crowded.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Until recently, some parks offered free camping. "This campground is free it has a lake it has a few picnic shelters with grills. There is one bathroom with a flush toilet it's coed. You can drive just about anywhere on the property and set your tent up," explains Michael P. about Pony Express Park Chappell.
Convenient highway access: Many campgrounds provide strategic overnight locations. "We stopped here for an overnight while traveling to Wyoming. The host was quite nice, and the price was about half of what we could've paid at the KOA nearby," says Robin B. about McGreer Camper Park.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "The bathroom and shower facilities were so wonderful - very clean and nice to use! We also appreciated them only being accessible by keycode," notes Kara P. about Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA, highlighting security features that travelers appreciate.
What you should know
Recent fee changes: Previously free camping areas now charge overnight fees. "Nice little campground easily accessible from I80. It's not free anymore, but only 15 dollars a night. There's restrooms and walking paths. Was perfect for a one night stay," reports J W. about Pony Express Park.
Wind conditions: The Nebraska panhandle experiences significant winds that affect tent camping. "Be sure to drive your tent stakes deep in the sandy soil as the wind can blow pretty hard in the Nebraska panhandle at times," advises Richard R., highlighting the necessity of proper equipment.
Highway noise levels: Campgrounds near I-80 experience traffic noise around the clock. "It's convenient for a stop on the way. However, the property is immediately adjacent to I-80. Lots of road noise," warns Max M. about Ogallala/I-80 KOA Journey.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Some KOAs offer swimming pools, though availability varies. "The pool was closed because of Covid and it was super windy. Cute playground my kids liked. Dog friendly too," notes Tamisha S. about Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "The park is large enough that it made for a good stroll with my pup. There is a dog park on-site," mentions Donna H., describing amenities at the Tri-Trails KOA that appeal to families.
Dealing with biting insects: Some farm-adjacent campgrounds experience fly problems. "Though we didn't see many cows, the flies definitely know they are there! Oh my! We jokingly said 'they're raising flies!!!' And they were BITING flies," warns Robin B. about McGreer Camper Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Full service sites with water, electric, and sewer connections are available at several locations. "We received a text the day prior welcoming us and asking us not to arrive before 1:00 PM Mountain Time plus let them know our estimated arrival time. The utilities are in the middle with two sewer choices (nice!)," reports MickandKarla W. about the Ogallala/I-80 KOA Journey.
Cellular connectivity: Working remotely is possible at many Julesburg area campgrounds. "Cell signal was excellent and let me work remotely. It's quiet and I'm pretty sure I was the only person there at night," shares Landon C. about Pony Express Park Chappell.
Level sites: Many parks provide well-maintained parking areas for easy setup. "The sites are gravel, but very level. Full hookups with electric, water, and sewer," notes Gillian L., who appreciated the convenience at McGreer Camper Park after a long day of driving.
