Randy U.
Scout
ScoutPony Express Park Chappell
Good for a quick stop
Right near the interstate nice little spot we were the only people here in early March. 15 bucks pay at the stand.
Best Campgrounds near Julesburg, CO
Campgrounds near Julesburg, Colorado span across state lines with several options along the I-80 corridor in both Colorado and Nebraska. Pony Express RV Park in Julesburg provides full hookup sites for RVs, while McGreer Camper Park in Big Springs, Nebraska offers a mix of tent sites, RV spaces, cabins, and glamping accommodations approximately 20 miles northeast of Julesburg. Most facilities in this area cater primarily to overnight travelers and road-trippers seeking convenient stops along major interstate routes, with several campgrounds situated near highway exits for easy access.
Many campgrounds in the Julesburg region remain open year-round with basic amenities, though specific services may vary seasonally. "This is a perfect place to stop midway between the Missouri River and the Rocky Mountains," noted one traveler about McGreer Camper Park, highlighting its strategic location for cross-country travelers. While most established campgrounds offer water and electric hookups, several locations have recently implemented new fee structures. Campers planning to visit Pony Express Park in Chappell should be aware it now charges $15 per night, according to recent visitor reports, whereas it previously operated as a free camping area. The prairie landscape experiences significant wind patterns, particularly in spring and fall, requiring secure tent stakes and proper RV stabilization.
The camping experience near Julesburg typically features prairie landscapes with some sites positioned around small lakes or ponds. Several visitors mention the campgrounds' convenience as overnight stops rather than destination camping. According to one camper, "It's not about the amenities, just terrific service in a perfect stop over spot." Most RV parks in the area offer full hookups with 50-amp service, making them suitable for larger rigs. Cellular coverage remains generally strong throughout the region, allowing remote workers to maintain connectivity. While natural features like mountains or forests are limited, the rolling prairie landscape provides open views and accessible camping for travelers moving between the Midwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
Best Camping Sites Near Julesburg, Colorado (41)
1. McGreer Camper Park
12 ReviewsBig Springs, NE11 milesWebsite+1 (308) 289-4137"It’s just a parking lot essentially off the highway exit."
"We stopped here for an overnight stay on our way to Colorado. Owners were very friendly and the bathrooms were very clean. Downside is the lack of shade."
2. Pony Express Park Chappell
13 ReviewsJulesburg, CO13 milesWebsite+1 (308) 874-2401$15 / night
"Lovely little spot surrounding a lake. There are no designated sites. You can pretty much drive and camp wherever. There are a few picnic areas with structures."
"There's restrooms and walking paths. Was perfect for a one night stay."
3. Pony Express RV Park
2 ReviewsJulesburg, CO1 mileWebsite+1 (970) 466-1543"Nice place and easy to get to, visiter center close by."
4. Creekside RV Park
4 ReviewsJulesburg, CO13 milesWebsite+1 (308) 874-2267"Within walking distance of a couple of bars and grills and a bowling alley, so make sure to check them out. Cash only and no advance reservations, but plenty of spots were left when we were there."
"It is close to I-80 for easy access."
5. Oregon Trail RV Campground
14 ReviewsLewellen, NE25 milesWebsite+1 (970) 978-8186$10 - $65 / night
"We came across this small campground right outside of Lewellen on Hwy 26. It has 12 full hook up sites on grass. There are some mature trees to help with shade."
"Close to the highway and active train tracks. However, you’re still nice and out-of-the-way. Would stay here again."
6. Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground
30 ReviewsOgallala, NE36 milesWebsite+1 (308) 284-8800$10 - $30 / night
"Easy access to campsites, clean shower houses, fun walking trails with great views of the lake! Fun boating and atv activities or beach day with the family!"
"Nice grass to pitch your tent on right next to the lake. Not too close to neighbor sites. Quiet"
7. Cedar View Campground — Lake McConaughy
10 ReviewsLewellen, NE28 milesWebsite+1 (308) 284-8800$10 - $25 / night
"These were nice sized sites and we had a great spot a few steps from the beginning of the beach. Camp host was very personable. Bathroom could be a little cleaner but not the worst one I've ever seen."
"Well maintained, easy access to restrooms and trash. Really close between campsites, pretty loud and really crowded but as to be expected being a June weekend."
8. Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA
12 ReviewsOgallala, NE30 milesWebsite+1 (308) 284-2415"The first thing to note is that there are two KOAs in Ogallala: one is right on the highway next to a truck stop, and then this one is about a mile off the highway, behind the truck stops."
"Snug campground surrounded by corn fields. The hum of the highway can be heard but isn’t bad at all. We would definitely stay here again. Hosts were very kind."
9. Jumbo (Julesburg Reservoir) State Wildlife Area
3 ReviewsJulesburg, CO21 milesWebsite+1 (970) 842-6300"This is the perfect place to go to stay close to our home and not a long road home. You are able to schedule time with friends and head down and save your camping spot a day or two in advance."
10. Ogallala/I-80 KOA Journey
11 ReviewsOgallala, NE30 milesWebsite+1 (308) 284-1300$45 - $90 / night
"We were met outside as we arrived and check-in was quick. We were escorted to a standard pull-through site 35 with FHUs. The first thing we noticed was how immaculate the campground(CG) was kept."
"This was a tiny little campground that hit the spot after driving 14 hours. Spotless bathrooms, perfectly groomed campsite, and ridiculously wonderful management!"
Recent Camping Photos near Julesburg, CO
22 Photos of 41 Julesburg Campgrounds
Michael P.
Pony Express Park Chappell
Josh U.
Oregon Trail RV Campground
Therese T.
Cedar View Campground — Lake McConaughy
JC
Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA
Shannon G.
Ogallala/I-80 KOA Journey
Rico B.
Sandy Beach Campground — Lake McConaughy SRA
Lori C.
Lone Eagle Campground
Daniel B.
Little Thunder Campground
Claire W.
Martin Bay Campground — Lake McConaughy SRA
Rosie R.
Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground
Recent Reviews near Julesburg, CO
183 Reviews of 41 Julesburg Campgrounds
- TTraci K.Scout
Pony Express Park Chappell
Perfect for a quick overnight stop
Very nice public campground for $15. Not busy this time of year as we were the only rv campers there. Great place to walk dogs and picnic. Chappell is a great little town!
- EEmmalee N.Scout
Oregon Trail RV Campground
Great one night stay
Honestly this place was perfect for our overnight. Luke is wonderful- I would call to check availability, the Dyrt won’t let you book same day. Lovely heated bathroom and oh so quiet! Yes, there’s a train - but would take a train over excessive highway noise any day. We had a great night - thank you!
- RRuth L.Scout
Oregon Trail RV Campground
Great location!
Helpful email before arrival with instructions. Extended stay by 4 nights because of the convenient location and beautiful scenery. Will stay here when visiting from now on.
Robert T.ScoutOregon Trail RV Campground
The stay!
Overall auto bad experience. Close to the highway and active train tracks. However, you’re still nice and out-of-the-way. Would stay here again.
- KKate B.
TravelerPony Express Park Chappell
Great stop
Beautiful. Only $15 a night
Gillian L.
GuideMcGreer Camper Park
Loved it!
We were exhausted after a long windy day on I80 and this little stop was a god send. The owner is absolutely amazing and got us all set up over the phone with a last minute reservation. The sites are gravel, but very level. Full hookups with electric, water, and sewer. The sun was setting as we pulled in and it was gorgeous! The campground has a small office with what looks like a common room and showers (we did not use). A Maverik gas station is across the street with tons of amenities. A little bit of highway noise, as it’s right next to I80, but very minimal, didn’t disturb us. We will absolutely stop again!
Donna H.
RangerOgallala Tri-Trails KOA
Nice clean campground in town
The first thing to note is that there are two KOAs in Ogallala: one is right on the highway next to a truck stop, and then this one is about a mile off the highway, behind the truck stops. I did drive by the other one, which wasn't as nice.
The park manager was a really sweet guy and very helpful. The park is clean, as are the restrooms and showers. There is a dog park on-site, but the park is large enough that it made for a good stroll with my pup. I would stay here again.
- AAllison B.Traveler
Sandy Beach Campground — Lake McConaughy SRA
Must love trains
I stayed at Beach 13 under the trees. I did not see anyone else in this area. I can imagine it’s insanely busy during the summer and that sounds miserable. There were several trains going throughout the night. There were porta potties at the parking lot and down the street was a shower bathroom facility. As with other Nebraska parks be prepared to pay for a shower.
Guide to Julesburg
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping spots near Julesburg, Colorado?
Where can I find camping spots near Julesburg, Colorado?
Several camping options exist near Julesburg, Colorado. Cabela's RV Park & Campground offers clean facilities with bathroom/showers, coin laundry, and convenient access to nearby amenities including food, coffee, and Walmart. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for RVs, campers, and tents. For those looking to stay overnight while traveling, McGreer Camper Park provides a convenient stopover location, though it's essentially a parking lot off the highway with friendly owners. If you're willing to drive a bit further, Lake McConaughy area campgrounds offer more scenic options with lake access and beach camping opportunities about an hour away from Julesburg.
Is camping allowed at Julesburg Reservoir and what amenities are available?
Is camping allowed at Julesburg Reservoir and what amenities are available?
Camping is allowed at Julesburg Reservoir (also known as Jumbo Reservoir State Wildlife Area). The area offers both boat-in and drive-in access for campers. As a State Wildlife Area, amenities are basic compared to developed campgrounds. Jumbo Reservoir State Wildlife Area provides reservable camping spots, making it easier to secure your stay in advance. For those seeking more amenities, consider Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground which, while not at Julesburg Reservoir, offers clean shower houses, walking trails with lake views, and easy access to campsites in the same general region. Remember that wildlife areas typically require a valid hunting or fishing license or habitat stamp for entry.
Which is the most popular campground near Julesburg, CO?
Which is the most popular campground near Julesburg, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Julesburg, CO is McGreer Camper Park with a 4-star rating from 12 reviews.
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