Coot Shallows WMA

Birds fill the mornings at Coot Shallows Wildlife Management Area, a free dispersed site along a small lake in south-central Nebraska. Managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, it has three pull-outs sized for RVs and campers, though reviewers note it works less well for tents. Cell service is available. Anglers can fish the pond on-site. Nearby, Union Pacific State Rec Area sits roughly two miles east. Pack firewood if you plan to stay after dark, as the site is otherwise light on amenities.

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Map & DirectionsCoot Shallows WMA is located in Nebraska near Kearney

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

40.684164 N
99.290679 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 7/19/26

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 7/19/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Coot Shallows WMA needs a permit.

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Coot Shallows WMA

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 23, 2026

Hidden Gem for a Highway Overnight

This is one of at least 3 NE a Water Management Areas along I80. There are only 3 spots at Coot Shallows and a turnaround at the end so you can face the lake. Definitely a good amount of road noise but can’t beat free for quick overnight.

Site2
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Coot Shallows WMA by Lorraine E., August 23, 2026
Reviewed Jul. 29, 2026

Clean. Pretty. Free.

This is a great spot along the shores of a small lake. Birds are all around chirping in the morning. For us it was the perfect overnight on a long-haul part of our trip. I should’ve planned a few extra hours here to fish.

Sitemiddle pull off
Month of VisitJuly
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Coot Shallows WMA by Matt F., July 29, 2026
  • Review photo of Coot Shallows WMA by Matt F., July 29, 2026
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Reviewed May. 11, 2024

Good for a day

It's a small park with a pond that you can fish at. We were the only campers in for the day and honestly probably wouldn't be great for tents. There are 3 pull outs that you can put in an RV or camper but not much else to this place.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Coot Shallows WMA by Gabriel H., May 11, 2024
  • Review photo of Coot Shallows WMA by Gabriel H., May 11, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can you do at Coot Shallows in Nebraska?

Fishing is the primary activity at Coot Shallows WMA, which features a small pond stocked with fish. The area also supports basic camping, particularly for those with RVs or campers rather than tents. Wildlife observation is another potential activity, as wildlife management areas are designed to preserve natural habitats. The quiet, uncrowded nature of the area makes it suitable for those seeking solitude in nature, though recreational amenities are minimal.

Where is Coot Shallows located in Nebraska?

Coot Shallows WMA (Wildlife Management Area) is located in Nebraska. It's a small, relatively secluded area featuring a pond. While the exact county location isn't specified in available information, it's part of Nebraska's system of wildlife management areas managed for public recreation and wildlife conservation. For precise directions, contact Nebraska Game and Parks Commission who oversees the state's WMAs.

Do you need reservations for camping at Coot Shallows?

No reservations are required for camping at Coot Shallows WMA. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. With only three designated pull-outs for RVs or campers, it's a small facility that rarely reaches capacity. However, during peak fishing seasons or weekends, arriving earlier in the day might be advisable to secure one of the limited spots.

What amenities are available at Coot Shallows Campground?

Coot Shallows offers very basic amenities. The site features three pull-out spots designed for RVs or campers. The area includes a fishing pond, which is the main attraction. The campground is quite primitive and not particularly suitable for tent camping. No information suggests the presence of bathrooms, running water, electrical hookups, or other modern facilities. Campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies and be ready for a self-sufficient camping experience.