Remote and undeveloped, this dispersed camping area sits within Nebraska Game and Parks Commission land near Merriman. The gravel roads provide access suitable for big rigs, though campers should expect no cell service once they arrive. A boat ramp offers direct lake access for those bringing watercraft.
The area maintains its quiet character with minimal development and free camping throughout the designated zones. ADA-accessible facilities accommodate visitors with mobility needs, while pets can accompany their owners. Campers comfortable with primitive conditions and seeking water-based recreation will find this management area well-suited to their needs.
Description
Wildlife Management Area (Nebraska MWA) at Cottonwood/Steverson Wildlife Management Area. Free rv and tent camping for everyone, no fees charged, that is the reason it's 3 stars. Stay/camping limited to 3 days at a time as a general rule but, could be allowed longer. Check signage to verify or call # below. Nice area. Roads are gravel/dirt.
Note* As a rule: If you have questions or want to confirm the posed signage, call (402) 471-5531 for a Nebraska Gane and Park conservation officer/ranger. All Nebraska WMA's are free to camp for everyone. Check signs as you enter for each WMA's specific's regulations, if there are any. If you want electrical and water hookups for rv's, you will need to go to a $pay fee "Nebraska State Park" or a city park, which are really nice but not free, like the free Nebraska WMA's.
Reservation Info
Stay is limited to 3 consecutive nights
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCottonwood/Steverson Wildlife Management Area is located in Nebraska near Merriman
Coordinates
42.401519 N
101.694597 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/8/26
VerizonNo Coverage
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/8/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Pets
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 Cottonwood/Steverson Wildlife Management Area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 3 hrs from Rapid City, SD
- 3 hrs 40 min from Cheyenne, WY
- 3 hrs 50 min from Grand Island, NE
- 4 hrs 15 min from Greeley, CO
