Dispersed camping near Ashton, Nebraska provides rustic overnight options along the North and South Platte River corridors. The area sits at approximately 2,300 feet elevation with predominantly flat terrain interspersed with shallow lakes and ponds created by old river channels. Summer temperatures frequently reach the 90s with high humidity, while winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing temperatures and occasional snow.
What to do
Fishing access points: Blue Hole Wildlife Management Area offers multiple fishing spots around its small pond. As one visitor noted, "Got here at night, turned into Chloe's circle, it was a short gravel road. There's a decent amount of road noise from the interstate... there was a boat launching spot and a small trail to lead to the lake."
Wildlife observation: Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area provides habitat for various wildlife species including possums. A camper reported, "A fat possum waddled up to me when I was setting up my tent in the dark since I pulled up to this spot late at night. He didn't bother me when I was sleeping but gave me a good scare."
Hiking trails: Paved walking paths exist near some camping areas. One camper mentioned that Bassway Strip is a "Nice location if you want to hike or fish" and that it has a "beautiful, paved and lit hiking trail."
What campers like
Convenient road trip stops: Wood River West State Wildlife Management Area receives praise as a practical overnight option. According to one camper, "Small area perfect for a quick night. There were a few people here when I got here but it's easy to make room when you know most people are just trying to get a quick rest."
Firefly viewing: Some campsites offer natural light shows during summer evenings. A visitor to Bassway Strip shared, "The fireflies were awesome, even in the rain!"
Privacy options: Several sites provide relative seclusion despite highway proximity. A Wood River West camper stated, "It's a gravel road right off I-80; farmland surrounded the camping spot and it was pretty private."
What you should know
Vehicle size limitations: Several areas have restrictions on vehicle length and turning radius. A Wood River West visitor warned, "This is NOT for rigs over 15' long. Turn around potential is tight."
Insect concerns: Ticks and other insects are prevalent in warmer months. One camper at Blue Hole Wildlife Management Area observed, "When I woke up in the morning it was pouring rain, so i did not explore, but I did not see any toilets, picnic tables, or fire rings in the parking area."
Weather considerations: The area experiences seasonal extremes. A camper noted, "We camped here on a rainy night when we didnt want to pay the out of state fees for a campground we would only park in."
Security awareness: Some areas have reported concerning encounters. A Blue Hole visitor cautioned, "Around 4:30 AM a car pulled in quietly and parked right next to our van (even though there were other camping spots available). The only reason we woke up was because our dog started barking and freaking out."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with space for kids: Coot Shallows WMA offers multiple parking areas. A visitor described, "It's a small park with a pond that you can fish at. There are 3 pull outs that you can put in an RV or camper."
Prepare for limited facilities: No areas offer restrooms or drinking water. A camper at Blue Hole observed, "This is a small area with a pond just off the interstate. A little sketchy but not quite as sketchy as some of the other wildlife management areas on this stretch of I-80."
Bring insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in summer. One Bassway Strip camper mentioned, "It was a great spot in a pinch with very few people there, but the mosquitos were bad, at least in late July."
Tips from RVers
Weight restrictions: Loch Linda Wildlife Management Area has access limitations. According to a visitor, "5 miles on well maintained dirt road to a small 2 car lot. This is mainly used for hunter vehicle parking."
Highway noise considerations: Interstate proximity affects sound levels at most sites. A camper at Bassway Strip noted, "The interstate is right next to the area so it can be pretty loud with the semi's. Overall it was secluded and shaded with flat spots to camp."
Farm smells: Agricultural surroundings can affect air quality. One Wood River West camper advised, "There is a pretty strong farm smell so just be prepared for that! Nice views in the full moon!"
