Fort Kearny and War Axe State Recreation Areas near Ashton, Nebraska offer camping access within 6 miles of Interstate 80, with multiple small lakes supporting fishing and kayaking activities. The region features mature cottonwood trees providing shade at many campsites despite the predominantly flat prairie terrain. Seasonal variations affect water levels in recreation area lakes, with summer months typically maintaining optimal conditions for water recreation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: War Axe State Recreation Area maintains a small lake with a dock for fishing. The site charges $10 per night for primitive camping with a Nebraska state park permit required. "There is a access point for a small boat, kayak, or canoe. It is a nice clean little stopping point," notes a visitor to War Axe State Rec Area.
Hiking trails: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area connects to a bike trail leading to the historical fort. "There's a bike trail that goes to the Fort at the historical park," reports one camper. The recreation area includes multiple small ponds and walking paths through mature trees.
Swimming options: During summer months, Lake 7 at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area has a designated swimming beach. "Fishing and swimming" are available activities according to visitors. Kearney RV Park also offers "a lake for swimming where there was a fire pit" for those seeking water recreation close to town.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Kearney RV Park & Campground offers concrete pads with generous spacing. "Very large concrete pads with full hook ups. The lake was very nice and our kids enjoyed playing in the water," shares a camper. The level sites accommodate large RVs without difficulty.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "The shower and bath houses are very clean. There is lots to keep kids busy... our 3 year old spent most of the evening catching toads," says a camper at Grand Island KOA. Bathroom facilities with running water are available at most established campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers wildlife observation opportunities. "We even saw some deer in the field next to the campground," notes a visitor. The recreation area's multiple ponds attract various bird species, creating natural viewing areas for campers interested in wildlife.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Most campgrounds in the region sit close to Interstate 80. "Being right next to the highway very bad road noise. Had to turn the fan on high to drown it out," reports a Kearney RV Park visitor. War Axe campers similarly note, "I can't get past the fact that I-80 is right there on the other side the trees."
Park permit requirements: Nebraska state recreation areas require entrance permits. "You will need an access pass to stay here or even visit. These cannot be obtained at the site and must be purchased before visiting either online or at one of the main offices," explains a War Axe visitor. Plan to purchase permits in advance.
Seasonal availability: While Fort Kearny remains open year-round, staffing and facility availability change seasonally. "We didn't use the bath house or showers so can't comment," mentions one visitor, highlighting potential service limitations. Weather conditions affect site accessibility, particularly during winter and early spring.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Campgrounds offering child-friendly features receive positive feedback from family travelers. "Nice pool and large playground for the kids," notes a camper about Grand Island KOA. The KOA also offers bike rentals for families seeking additional recreation.
Tent camping options: Fort Kearny provides more secluded options for tent camping families. "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," shares one visitor describing the tent camping experience.
Swimming spots for children: Several recreation areas maintain designated swimming areas ideal for families with children. "The lake was very nice and our kids enjoyed playing in the water," reports a family at Kearney RV Park. Water depth remains relatively shallow near shore areas, providing safer swimming zones.
Tips from RVers
Late arrival procedures: Many campgrounds accommodate after-hours check-ins. "We arrived late and they had a map and packet ready for us inside the lobby," notes a visitor to Kearney RV Park. Grand Island KOA and other facilities maintain similar late arrival systems for travelers.
Hookup availability: For yurt camping near Ashton, Nebraska, several campgrounds offer partial or full hookup sites. "We rolled in and didn't even need to unhook. Level site, quiet (except for the interstate), easy breezy check in, clean, and easy out," reports an RVer at Kearney RV Park.
Storm shelter access: Nebraska's unpredictable weather makes storm shelters an important amenity. "There are storm shelters available in the bathhouse," notes a Kearney RV Park camper. This safety feature provides additional security for RV travelers during severe weather events common in the region.
