Camping areas near Beatrice, Nebraska, span the diverse southeastern Nebraska landscape with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,400 feet. Nestled between the Big Blue River and its tributaries, many sites feature moderate tree cover with cottonwoods and oaks providing natural shade. Weather varies dramatically by season, with campsites typically experiencing hot summers and cold winters that restrict seasonal availability.
What to Do
Disc golf in city parks: Riverside Park in Beatrice features an 18-hole disc golf course throughout the grounds. "I stayed there for a whole weekend. The reason to stay was to Frisbee golf and camp ALL weekend. They have a nice 18 hole course throughout the park," notes Jeff T., who appreciated the sheltered bathrooms and drinking fountains available while playing.
Kayaking on spring-fed lakes: Crystal Springs Lake offers three small spring-fed lakes ideal for non-motorized boating. According to James B., "Three spring fed lakes to kayak or fish in. Even though lower camp ground was pretty full it was quiet." The lakes prohibit motorized boats but are perfect for peaceful paddling.
Fishing at local lakes: Auburn area campgrounds provide access to well-stocked fishing spots. As Charles C. from Auburn Inn and Long's RV Park notes, "The nearby lake has good fishing and is annually stocked with trout. The town is in three sections: new businesses in the south on the Highway and two older downtowns."
What Campers Like
Clean shower facilities: Many rv parks near Beatrice maintain well-kept shower buildings. At Riverside Park, Allison B. reports, "Bathroom was clean although stalls have no doors. I did not use the showers but I looked in and they were clean. There is a nice paved walk/bike path along the river."
Paved walking paths: Riverside Park offers paved recreational trails along the Big Blue River. "It was quiet once it got dark. Slept with my windows open and heard no traffic or trains," adds Allison B., highlighting the peaceful environment despite being in town.
Kid-friendly amenities: Lincoln's Camp A Way Campground provides numerous activities for families. "This destination was so fun! Sites are shaded and spacious. Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more! Super cute place to stay with family," says Samantha S.
What You Should Know
Limited tent camping availability: While RV sites dominate, tent camping exists at select locations. Lauren M. notes about Riverside Park, "Tenting is $5, which we didn't know because it's not marked on the price board or envelopes. However, after setting up for the night, a camp host told us there was a separate, cheaper tenting area on the eastern side of the trailer area."
Swimming restrictions: Some area lakes don't permit swimming. At Bluestem State Rec Area, camper Shaeli E. warns, "The only downside to this campground is the abundance of snapping turtles. You can still fish and kayak, just no swimming."
Highway noise factors: Proximity to highways affects some camping experiences. At Camp A Way Campground, Heather A. shares, "The highway is so close you can see the cars going by. It's extremely loud and constant highway sounds. If you are in a camper or RV, it probably doesn't make much difference, but in a tent, it took away a bit of the magic."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Riverside Park offers family-friendly infrastructure. Lauren M. explains, "This is a pleasant, quiet spot in a great park. There are two giant playgrounds to keep the kids busy. The picnic tables are really nice molded plastic, so no splinters."
Affordable family options: Marysville City Park provides donation-based camping with amenities for children. "Walking/biking trails, playground, frisbee golf, restaurants within walking distance, it's a beautiful setting and the squirrels, black squirrels are everywhere," notes Mindy, highlighting the park's family appeal.
Child-restricted facilities: Check age limitations before booking. At Camp A Way Campground, Heather A. shares a common issue: "We booked hoping we could use the spa, only to find out when we got here, no kids under 5 can use it. We have a 3-year-old, so we had to pass."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Crystal Springs Lake accommodates larger rigs. James B. reports, "Sites are big enough for our 38 foot 5th wheel with room to spare. Each site has 30 and 50 amp electric. Water also at each site."
RV park locations: Several RV campgrounds near Beatrice offer strategic positioning. Charles C. describes South Side RV Park as "Longterm and Short term RV camping in a newer part of town, all the hookups. Sites are directly behind a Dollar General and across the highway from the grocery and Shopko."
Laundry accessibility: For extended stays, select campgrounds provide laundry facilities. At Baileys RV Resort, Jill C. notes, "There is a laundry room as well, with a few washers, dryers, and a space to sit. The campground sits behind a hotel, which helps to minimize the highway noise."
