Horseback riding enthusiasts visiting Alliance, Nebraska can access several campgrounds that accommodate equestrian needs. The region features pine-dotted buttes and rolling grasslands with elevations ranging from 3,900 to 4,700 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s with cool evenings, while spring and fall offer milder daytime temperatures and colder nights.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Fort Robinson State Park offers extensive riding options with both guided and self-guided trails through pine-covered bluffs. According to one visitor, "This is a beautiful area in Northwest Nebraska... There's a couple good hikes and a swimming pool. We were there in September 2017 and pretty much had the place to ourselves!"
Fishing spots: Box Butte Reservoir provides fishing opportunities in a serene setting. One camper noted, "Great fishing and boat lake, but imo i prefer sandy beach for swimming. Needs more electrical sites." Water levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access.
Historical exploration: Soldier Creek Campground at Fort Robinson contains significant historical sites. A visitor shared: "This campground is a great place to come to enjoy a family get away! There are loads of activities close by to do and see including historic sites, museum, swimming pool, fishing, Jeep rides, it's seriously endless!"
What campers like
Spacious sites: Red Cloud Campground offers well-designed camping spaces. One reviewer commented, "This is a full hookup (electric/water/sewer) campground, appears to be recently updated. Concrete pad, fairly level. Picnic table and grill in each site... Decent amount of space between sites."
Privacy options: Some camping areas near Alliance offer more secluded spots. At Bridgeport State Rec Area, a camper mentioned, "Nice campspot more secluded but not by the lake like most campsites. It has a few connected lakes with campsites, boating, swimming, fishing, and other water activities."
Shade availability: Natural tree cover provides welcome relief during hot summer days. At Box Butte Reservoir, a reviewer noted, "Not many campsites, but all very accessible for any sized rig. There are tent sites as well. All sites are messed against the Cottonwood trees for afternoon shade."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water access can be limited depending on time of year. A Box Butte visitor observed, "Water access late in the year from campsites is few and far between. Layout is pretty easy to get around. Looked clean and well maintained."
Permit requirements: Nebraska State Parks have specific fee structures. As one camper at Red Cloud Campground explained, "NE SP requires a pass for each motorized vehicle. In state is $6 per day or $30 annual. Out of state is $12 per day or $60 annual. $30 per day plus cost of pass."
Noise factors: Some campsites experience noise from nearby transportation. At Bridgeport State Rec Area, a visitor mentioned, "Railroad goes right by it so be ready for constant train traffic as well." Campground selection should consider proximity to highways and railroad tracks.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Chadron State Park Campground offers diverse recreation options for children. A regular visitor shared, "We come here every year for the Chadron Fur Trade Days, and there were plenty of campsites open... a nice park and playground for kids to play in, an indoor 3D archery facility, a community pool with two diving boards and it has a little kid pool for those not yet good swimmers."
Safety considerations: Horse campgrounds near Alliance, Nebraska typically provide clear separation between equestrian areas and family camping zones. Parents should supervise children around water features, as one Bridgeport visitor noted, "Clear water, some sandy beaches. All water craft circle a small island. Most sites are water front."
Accommodation options: Consider alternatives to tent camping when traveling with young children. At Chadron State Park, a visitor commented, "Stayed here for an event in Chadron at the cabins and they served their purpose, but they were fairly outdated. Really pretty campground though and I would like to go back tent camping."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Soldier Creek Campground offers level sites with good spacing. A solo RVer mentioned, "Wonderful campsite! I camped solo here a couple of weeks ago and there was plenty of space with trees, a fire pit, and picnic table. I had neighbors but there was plenty of space that I didn't feel like they were encroaching on my site."
Hookup availability: For equestrian camping near Alliance with RVs, full-service sites are available at specific campgrounds. One visitor to Red Cloud Campground noted, "The FHUs are a nice touch. The older loop is asphalt and the new loop is all concrete. All sites are level and all look to accommodate a 45' MH."
Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds require additional preparation for RV parking. At Chadron State Park, a camper observed, "Unlevel asphalt parking, very few trees, pretty close to your neighbors, and incredibly rough (paved) access roads to the campground."
