Alliance, Nebraska sits in the western portion of the state at 3,900 feet elevation with a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Camping options vary from well-maintained RV parks near town to more primitive experiences at nearby reservoirs and state recreation areas. Water access is limited at many campsites during late summer months when reservoir levels often drop.
What to do
Visit Carhenge: Located just outside Alliance, this unique attraction welcomes pets and provides a distinctive experience. "This isn't the kind of spot you'd stay at long term, but if you want to see Carhenge, it's the best option. We pulled up at night, and it was dark and difficult to manage — but made worth it by the awesome post-apocalyptic view by headlight of the car sculptures up the hill from Carhenge," notes a visitor to Jeske's Over The Hill Campground.
Fishing at local reservoirs: Box Butte Reservoir offers good fishing opportunities with limited beach access. "Great fishing and boat lake, but imo i prefer sandy beach for swimming. Needs more electrical sites," reports a camper at Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area.
Water recreation: For families seeking better swimming conditions, consider traveling to nearby recreation areas. "Clear water, some sandy beaches. All water craft circle a small island. Most sites are water front," describes a visitor to Bridgeport State Recreation Area.
What campers like
Easy access to town: Campgrounds close to Alliance make supply runs convenient. "It is 2 rows behind a private house. The owner was nice and kind. It looks like they are trying to add more sites. Out of the 3 campgrounds in this area this one is the best. We stayed for 3 nights and it was a quick trip into the town," writes a reviewer about J & C RV Park.
Historical attractions: The region offers multiple historical sites within driving distance. "There are many historic sights to see within 90 minutes or less. Of course Chimney Rock is just a mile down the road and it has an excellent museum regarding the Oregon Trail," explains a camper at Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing.
Small-town atmosphere: The quieter campgrounds provide a more relaxed experience than busy tourist areas. "Pulled in without a reservation on a Thursday night. Was able to get a nice site with full hookups. Grounds are well maintained with lots of grassy areas to walk the pup. It's in town just off the highway, but road noise was minimal," shares a visitor to J & C RV Park.
What you should know
Limited amenities at some locations: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "We pulled up to this campground and there were 24 sites situated around a motel. The property was for sale and in need of TLC. They were mostly full hook ups and looked like long term campers," warns a visitor about Sunset Motel and RV Park.
Weather and seasonal considerations: Summer heat makes shade a premium commodity. "Grounds just outside of Alliance off Hwy2. Quiet area, grounds maintained nicely with trees in most lots. Owner is very nice and a pleasure to talk to," notes a camper at J & C RV Park.
Pet-friendly policies with limitations: While most campgrounds allow pets, exercise areas vary. "These spaces are close together but across a narrow street from a beautiful city park. There is a large covered area with several picnic tables and a well maintained grass area for the kids/pets," describes a visitor to Bayard City Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for parks with playground access: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "Hidden gem! This quiet little park is nestled back in a residential area and backs up to beautiful farmland. Three electrical/water sites are located on gravel across from the City park. The park has lush green grass, trees, small playground and pool," shares a visitor to Bayard City Park.
Consider day trips to nearby attractions: The region offers diverse activities within driving distance. "Super friendly helpful locals. Clean water lake. We out in our canoe for late afternoon fishing. Our 25 ft trailer right on the little lake fed by the North Platte. No bugs to speak of!" notes a camper at Bridgeport State Recreation Area.
Check campground reviews for noise levels: Train and highway noise affects some locations more than others. "This spot is basically three gravel RV spots next to a park. The park was nice and the gravel was pretty flat. It has a dumpster, port-a-potty, shaded tables, and a water spigot. Overall quiet except for the trains nearby which honk every hour or so," reports a visitor to Bayard City Park.
Tips from RVers
Level sites are available but limited: Many campgrounds offer concrete or gravel pads. "We stayed at Robidoux RV Park for one night in a pull through full hook up spot. It had a concrete pad with a patio and picnic table. All sites are 30 and 50 Amp and our pull through was long enough to stay connected," explains an RVer.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services. "Pros -Wifi -Sewer hookups -Water -Pull through sites -Nice owner. Cons -Unlevel sites," details a visitor to Jeske's Over The Hill Campground.
Seasonal expansion at some parks: Some facilities are improving their offerings. "My friends and I stayed here for a night as we were headed out towards Yellowstone. The owner was great and one of the employees helped make an extra accommodation for us since all of the spots were full. We stayed in June of 2023 and as of that time they were still in the process of hooking electricity up to about 20 or so new sites," reports a camper at Jeske's Over The Hill Campground.
