Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing, near Bayard, Nebraska, is a cozy spot for campers looking to soak in the stunning views of the iconic Chimney Rock. This campground offers a straightforward setup with full hookups, making it a convenient stop for RV travelers and tent campers alike.

The campground is known for its friendly hosts and a charming little shop that serves ice cream and snacks. Visitors have enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, with one camper noting, “Spots are fairly small but quiet,” which makes it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. 

You can take a short drive to get a closer look at Chimney Rock or hit some nearby trails for a bit of hiking. There’s also a small pond for fishing, though it’s catch and release only. Just keep an eye out for the local wildlife, as some campers have spotted peacocks and even mentioned the presence of rattlesnakes in the area.

While the amenities are basic, the views and the welcoming vibe make Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing a solid choice for a quick getaway or a longer stay. Whether you’re here to relax or explore, you’ll find a little slice of Nebraska charm waiting for you.

Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing

Looking for the best campgrounds near Bayard, NE? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Bayard, NE. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Bayard

The Best Camping Near Bayard, Nebraska

We did not stay here. Arrived at 6:30 and the shop with ice cream and food items was closed. Several hook ups and sites for full size rigs. 
There is not much else in the area other than the view of chimney rock which was pretty cool. 
I saw taped to the door two receipts for campground stays. The price was $46 for one and $38 for the other. 
There is not anything on the campground other than the shop so it is unlikely someone would stay for more than a day. 
We did not stay here so I can not confirm those prices but it seems quite steep for not a whole lot if it is the price. 

Cool view-not much else

Pioneer Crossing is located between Bridgeport and Scottsbluff. It’s a small 15 pull through campground($38/night) with 1 cabin which is $60/night. The sites are gravel and full hook ups and no trees. 
We pulled up after dark and Jo the owner told us they were full but he offered his field behind the cabin for a discount. He was very kind to find a place for us. 
The shop had a small stinkin cute ice cream parlor, pop, snacks and souvenirs. 
There is a small pond and area for tents($30/night), a dump station and shower/restroom. They also offer monthly stays at $550/month. 
It was fine for needing to pull off the road to sleep and to hike/view Chimney rock(a historical landmark). 

Nice view of Chimney Rock

There is not much to this campground, besides the full hookups except the very warm welcome we received from the host on his 4-wheeler!  The view of  Chimney Rock was beautiful morning and night.  Thanks for being so gracious.

Great view

This is a great stay over place. I believe we counted just 12 spots, full hookups. Spaces are rather close, but with only 12 rigs, it did not feel packed. Host was very kind and helpful. The view of the Chimney Rock was right out our front window. We walked to the rock location and took the trail at the cemetery. It is a bit of a distance (we had 5 miles) but we are hikers and didn’t mind. You could also drive closer, but we did not want to unhook from our rig. The registration office is a building full of goodies! Ice cream, food, and gifts and souvenirs are available.  We really enjoyed our overnight stay here and I would happily recommend this to anyone traveling through.

Perfect stop over

It was interesting to learn about Chimney Rock and definetly about how it was taller but got hit by lightning. This is a small RV campground but perfect to stop when we were tired. And definite bonus is they light up chimney rock at night while everything is pitch dark.   There is a small pond you can fish at and so my husband did. It’s catch and release only. While he fished I walked around the pond and saw the biggest bullfrogs ever. I could hear a lot of traffic and some peacocks yelping. Also beware of rattlesnakes they are thick in this area. It’s open all year, has pull thru sites, full hook ups, dump station, picnic tables, and cute gift shop with ice cream parlor. 

Great view of Chimney Rock

We had a wonderful stay here.  My husband had never seen Chimney Rock, and I had never seen Chimney Rock lit up at night.  All I have to say is Wow! Mosquitoes are hungry here!  Be prepared for that.  The owner and his wife are so nice, ice cream is great! Quick drive to see Chimney Rock closer and a few trails to hike if you like.  Visitors Center is 2 min away.  We got groceries in Bridgeport.  Nice town with a big gas station with diesel and def.  We would stay here again.  41 foot Fifth Wheel.  Plenty of room for our rig, pull thru which my husband likes.

Wow! 

I arrived late last night to chimney rock completely lit up. Very beautiful. Spots are fairly small but quiet. Frequent train, if that bothers you. Nice easy to hook up and pull through spot. 

Photos of Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing

Real photos from real campers