Rock Creek Station State Recreation Area and the surrounding region provide designated equestrian camping facilities near Hanover, Kansas. The area experiences seasonal variations with winter temperatures dropping below freezing and summer highs reaching into the 90s. Campgrounds in this region connect to historical sites along the Oregon Trail and Pony Express routes, with trails suitable for both hikers and horseback riders.
What to do
Trail riding: At Rock Creek Station SRA, equestrian campers have access to dedicated riding trails that connect to the historical park area. "Favorite place to stay for early season bow hunting. Camp hosts are always kind and do a great job. Site #20 has best cell service," notes Jen K. at Rock Creek Campground.
Historical exploration: Visit the interpretive center at Rock Creek Station to learn about frontier history. "Out of the two Nebraska state recreation areas I stayed at on my trip through the state, this one is definitely my favorite. I would give it 3.5 stars, but the coin-operated showers knock it down to a 3," mentions Alexandra J.
Fishing: Bruning Dam Recreation Area offers fishing opportunities within a short drive from Hanover. "Only two small sites and one appears to have sewage. There's a bathroom available. Best suited for an outdoorsman that's hunting or fishing," according to Dana T. at Bruning Dam Recreation Area.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Seasonal migrations bring diverse wildlife to the area. "My husband and I stayed in a site with beautiful trees and sunflowers growing all around us. The monarchs must have been migrating because they were all over the trees," shares Jessica C. at Randolph — Tuttle Creek State Park.
Quiet atmosphere: During weekdays and non-peak seasons, campers report peaceful stays. "Quiet camp area with paved back in sites for RV/Campers. Our site had a standard 30A electric hookup, with 20A duplex outlet as well," reports John A.
Access to water: Multiple camping areas provide water access for recreation. "You can drive down to the water. We didn't see a lot of campers but there were quite a few people fishing off the shore," notes Jessica C.
What you should know
Limited tent sites: Some campgrounds primarily accommodate RVs with fewer designated tent areas. "There are only two designated tent sites in this entire campground. However, both these sites are clean, beautiful, and located near the trail that takes you to the (honestly very well-presented) adjacent historical park," explains Alexandra J. at Horse Camp — Rock Creek Station SRA.
Seasonal water access: Water systems may be shut off during colder months. "No water after Nov. 1 and have to fill from well pump," advises Jen K.
Navigation challenges: Some camping areas have limited signage and can be difficult to locate. "We looked and looked for this place and never found any campground or signs for it. The roads were all narrow dirt and bumpy," cautions Donna H.
Tips for camping with families
Insect protection: Prepare for seasonal insect activity in warmer months. "Bring bug spray, as the mosquitoes and chiggers were biting! Very quiet stay for a couple nights," recommends Jessica C.
Campsite selection: Choose sites with natural shade during summer months. "Nice shade in the early and later part of the day for most sites," notes John A.
Small-scale options: For families seeking less crowded alternatives, consider smaller recreation areas. "Best suited for an outdoorsman that's hunting or fishing," explains Dana T.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Most established campgrounds offer paved back-in sites suitable for recreational vehicles. "Paved road access to the park from both the north and the south from US HWY 136 or NE HWY 8," reports John A.
Utility hookups: Electric and water connections vary by campground and site. "Stayed here for a couple nights, it's a nice campground but fairly busy with close proximity to Manhattan and Fort Riley as well as the ORV park. Predominantly RV campers and off road rigs," shares Chris S. at Rusty Nickel Ranch RV.
Dump station availability: Some campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities for longer stays. Check with park offices for seasonal availability and restrictions, as these services may close during winter months.
