Fort Kearny State Recreation Area allows equestrian camping with personal horses but requires visitors to bring their own containment systems. Located in central Nebraska's Platte River Valley, the area provides a natural habitat for diverse wildlife including deer that can be spotted near the campground. Primitive tent sites near the lake offer more seclusion than the main electric camping loops, which feature mature cottonwood shade trees.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple small lakes at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area provide good fishing conditions for visitors. "We had a great time here. Quite and peaceful. Bike rental is fun and the fishing was good as well," reports Brian H.
Biking trails: The 50-mile trail system provides extensive riding opportunities for equestrians and cyclists. "The very long Cerro Gordo County trail is close to 50 miles long," notes Michael B., who found the campground to be "a gem of a simple place."
Historical exploration: Fort Kearny Historical Site connects to the recreation area via bike path. One camper mentioned, "There's a bike trail that goes to the Fort at the historical park. I didn't have time to check this out, but would like to next time I pass through."
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Coot Shallows WMA and Fort Kearny both offer water-adjacent sites. Jessica C. appreciated the privacy: "My husband and I were able to get a primitive site right next to one of the lakes. Our site was secluded from the other campers but it was a bit of a walk to the vault toilets."
Quiet atmosphere: Multiple reviewers noted the peaceful environment. Brad C. found it "very peaceful, quiet, lots of sites," while Maggie C. called it a "quiet little campground" despite being only 6 miles off I-80.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts local wildlife. "We even saw some deer in the field next to the campground," reports Jessica C., making it ideal for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts looking for equestrian trails near Alma, Nebraska.
What you should know
Additional permit fees: Medicine Creek State Rec Area and Fort Kearny both require entry permits beyond camping fees. As Susan L. notes, "A daily vehicle park permit is required and when this is added in to the cost, it's a bit pricey for what it is."
Site erosion and levelness: Some sites have erosion issues affecting levelness. Susan L. observed at site 57: "The site wasn't level due to erosion, which was pretty significant."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities quality varies by season and maintenance schedule. One visitor reported: "The one downside is the pit toilets. They hadn't been emptied in who knows when. The tp was piled high and there were flies."
Tips for camping with families
Rental bicycles: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers bicycle rentals for children. "Hosts were very nice and even have bikes for the kids," mentions a reviewer, making this a budget-friendly activity option.
Swimming options: Lake 7 at Fort Kearny has a designated swimming beach. Susan L. notes, "There are 7 sandpit lakes in the area that offer fishing. Lakes 5, 6 and 7 offer handicap accessible piers. Lake 7 has the swimming beach."
Accessible fishing piers: For families with mobility concerns, several lakes feature accessible fishing infrastructure. This makes Fort Kearny one of the more accessible horse campgrounds near Alma, Nebraska for families with varied needs.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area has varied site sizes with some restrictions. Susan L. cautions, "Site 57 wouldn't accommodate anything longer than 26'. It was also right next to site 58, so it would be great for 2 families looking to camp together."
Water access: No water hookups exist at individual sites. "Electric h/u, but no water. Need to fill up prior to camping," advises one RVer, emphasizing the importance of arriving with full water tanks.
Weekday stays recommended: For those seeking quieter experiences, midweek visits are preferable. "Weekday stays are much calmer and if you go before/after peak busy season, you will only have to share the entire park with a small handful of campers," recommends Jen K.
