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Camping near Big Springs, NE

49 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Camping options around Big Springs, Nebraska center primarily on established campgrounds with various amenities rather than primitive or dispersed sites. Several RV-focused facilities operate in the area, including McGreer Camper Park directly off I-80 and Oregon Trail RV Campground in nearby Lewellen. Both tent and RV camping are supported at most locations, with several properties also offering cabin accommodations. Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, approximately 35 miles east, provides additional waterfront camping opportunities with both primitive and developed sites.

    Most campgrounds in the region operate year-round, making Big Springs accessible for camping regardless of season. Full hookup sites are common, with many locations offering water, electric, and sewer connections. Road access is straightforward with most campgrounds situated near major highways. The region experiences typical Great Plains weather patterns with hot summers and cold winters. "This is a perfect place to stop midway between the Missouri River and the Rocky Mountains," noted one camper about McGreer Camper Park, highlighting its strategic location for cross-country travelers. Travelers should be aware that many campgrounds are working farms or simple facilities designed primarily as overnight stops rather than destination camping.

    Campground facilities near Big Springs tend to be practical rather than scenic, with several reviewers noting their functionality for overnight stays. Most developed campgrounds provide essential amenities like showers, toilets, and hookups, though primitive options exist at Lake McConaughy for those seeking a more natural experience. The proximity to I-80 makes many sites convenient but also creates some highway noise. A reviewer described McGreer Camper Park as "just a parking lot essentially off the highway exit," yet mentioned the friendly owners and ease of access. For those seeking recreational opportunities, the lake areas provide boating, fishing, and swimming options with white sand beaches that receive positive reviews for their cleanliness and beauty.

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    Best Campgrounds near Big Springs (49)

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      1. McGreer Camper Park

      4.0(12)1mi from Big SpringsRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "It’s just a parking lot essentially off the highway exit."

      "A little bit of highway noise, as it’s right next to I80, but very minimal, didn’t disturb us. We will absolutely stop again!"

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      2. Oregon Trail RV Campground

      4.3(16)19mi from Big Springs16 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "We came across this small campground right outside of Lewellen on Hwy 26. It has 12 full hook up sites on grass. There are some mature trees to help with shade."

      "Close to the highway and active train tracks. However, you’re still nice and out-of-the-way. Would stay here again."

      from $10 - $65 / night

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      3. Cedar View Campground — Lake McConaughy

      4.3(12)18mi from Big Springs102 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Nice clean state park campground on Lake McConaughy. Many sites, all level and not too close to each other. Decent bathroom and shower building."

      "On a tall cliff, lake breeze blowing through the popup window, sandy beach that is as big as the panhandle itself (these are the sandhills of Nebraska)."

      from $15 - $30 / night

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      4. Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground

      3.7(31)25mi from Big Springs182 sitesRVs, Tents

      "I stopped at this campsite on a cross country road trip from NY to NV, as I didn’t know anyone who resided in the great state of Nebraska. Talk about a total hidden gem!!"

      "Easy access to campsites, clean shower houses, fun walking trails with great views of the lake! Fun boating and atv activities or beach day with the family!"

      from $15 - $45 / night

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      5. Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA

      4.8(12)19mi from Big SpringsRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "The first thing to note is that there are two KOAs in Ogallala: one is right on the highway next to a truck stop, and then this one is about a mile off the highway, behind the truck stops."

      "Snug campground surrounded by corn fields. The hum of the highway can be heard but isn’t bad at all. We would definitely stay here again. Hosts were very kind."

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      6. Ogallala/I-80 KOA Journey

      4.0(12)20mi from Big SpringsRVs, Tents

      "We were met outside as we arrived and check-in was quick. We were escorted to a standard pull-through site 35 with FHUs. The first thing we noticed was how immaculate the campground(CG) was kept."

      "This was a tiny little campground that hit the spot after driving 14 hours. Spotless bathrooms, perfectly groomed campsite, and ridiculously wonderful management!"

      from $45 - $90 / night

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      7. Pony Express RV Park

      5.0(2)11mi from Big SpringsRVs, Tents

      "Nice place and easy to get to, visiter center close by."

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      8. Pony Express Park Chappell

      3.3(14)21mi from Big SpringsRVs, Tents

      "Lovely little spot surrounding a lake. There are no designated sites. You can pretty much drive and camp wherever. There are a few picnic areas with structures."

      "There's restrooms and walking paths. Was perfect for a one night stay."

      from $15 / night

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      9. Lakeview

      5.0(3)17mi from Big SpringsRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "Found a very secluded place right in the lake. Close to town if you need anything. The lake is huge and makes for a great place to paddle board."

      "We love camping at lake Mac and have been there a few times. Van’s Lakeview is the best for multiple reasons. The campground is mostly dirt, not a ton of grass but the lake access is unbeatable."

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      10. Ogallala KOA

      4.4(5)20mi from Big SpringsRVs, Tents

      "There is a small playground for the kids and several dog walks but that is about it. We did hear highway noise all night."

      "Super easy to access from the highway. Close to several restaurants, gas stations, and a WalMart. Most impressive were the facilities for dogs. Highest recommendation. We will definitely be back."

      Check Availability
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    Recent Camping Photos near Big Springs, NE

    28 Photos of 49 Big Springs Campgrounds

    Recent Reviews near Big Springs, NE

    207 Reviews of 49 Big Springs Campgrounds

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 16, 2026

      Cedar View Campground — Lake McConaughy

      Clean simple state park camping

      Nice clean state park campground on Lake McConaughy. Many sites, all level and not too close to each other. Decent bathroom and shower building. We pull a small Hiker Trailer square-drop trailer and had no issues.

      The campground hosts-- one near us and another close to the shower area-- were very hospitable and helpful. Overall, not bad and fairly close to North Platte (to the East) the Chimney Rock area (to the West) or obviously Lake McConaughy.

      When we arrived, we discovered that sites must be reserved online in advance. We arrived right at 5 PM when the entry office closes, but a very friendly office helper stayed late to help us obtain a Nebraska park permit and then reserve the site itself.

    • Anna N.
      Jul. 12, 2026

      Cedar View Campground — Lake McConaughy

      Good place to stay close lake

      We absolutely loved this campsite! It was nestled among coniferous trees, had electrical sockets, and had a spot for a fire.

    • Kevin M.
      Jul. 11, 2026

      Ogallala / Tri Trails KOA Journey 120 Road East 80 Ogallala , NE 69153

      Great spot for a overnight pass through

      There’s nothing super special about the Ogallala/Tri Trails KOA.

      Actually, now that I think about it, that’s exactly what makes it special.

      This no-frills KOA is just minutes off I-80 in Ogallala, Nebraska, making it the perfect stop after a long day on the road. Don’t let my photo fool you—we stayed in Site 46, which is essentially a large parking-style site. For us, that was perfect. It offered full hookups, 50-amp service, and plenty of room for our big rig.

      If you're looking for something a little more upgraded, they offer sites with additional amenities and more trees. We simply didn't need anything fancy for a quick overnight stop, hot shower, and good night's sleep. The kids enjoyed the playground, and the camp store was a pleasant surprise. The staff was incredibly friendly and stocked plenty of Nebraska favorites, including craft sodas, local honey, pizza dough, popcorn, and coffee. Sometimes the best campgrounds aren't the ones packed with amenities—they're the ones that are clean, convenient, reasonably priced, and run by great people. Ogallala/Tri Trails KOA checks all those boxes.

      If you're passing through western Nebraska, it's definitely worth a stop.

    • HThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 4, 2026

      Cabela's RV Park & Campground

      Lifesaver in NE

      Cabela's Sydney Good Sam. June 12. Got in late and was so thankful to find this place as dusk was waning and the Lake Ogallala area was requiring two nights at every campground.  The parking lot was full of refrigerated rigs, no thanks, and then I turned the corner and found the campground.  Self service check in was well lit and signed. I stayed in the tent camping area and did not check out the facilities.,20% discount for Cabelas members and 10% for AAA.

    • AThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 21, 2026

      Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground

      Wouldn’t let us book for one night

      An absolute joke. Requires two nights stay minimum. So we’d have to pay over $60 to stay the one night at a spot with literally nothing but a fire pit and picnic table. That’s not even for a spot with hookups.

    • Liesel G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 13, 2026

      Pony Express Park Chappell

      Good overnight stop for long haul

      We're on a long treck across country. This is a good place to stay just off the freeway for an overnight rest. Plenty of room for the dogs and kids to play. One bathroom, unisex. Running water in sink but no showers. Flushing toilets. The sound of the Freeway is nearby but again, its great for an overnight stay while passing through. There is a $15 camping fee. Total 3 nights stay allowed.

    • T
      Jun. 7, 2026

      North Shore - Lake McConaughy SRA

      serene, home away from home and down right beautiful

      We headed up to North Shore for a weekend getaway and were pleasantly surprised by the location! The beach access is awesome — plenty of room to spread out and the water view is gorgeous, especially at sunset. We tent camped and found the sites to be pretty straightforward and clean.

      What really sold us was the cell service — we had excellent coverage on both T-Mobile and Verizon, which was a nice surprise since we weren't expecting to stay connected. Made it easy to quickly check directions and share photos with family.

      TheVisitor Center nearby is worth a quick stop if you've never been — learned a bit about the lake history and местные wildlife. Also appreciated how close the campground is to Ogallala for quick supply runs if you forget anything.

      Temps were comfortable when we went (mid-70s), and I'd imagine summer gets pretty hot. Would definitely recommend bringing plenty of water and sun protection.

      Only thing to note — it's a basic public campground, so don't expect resort-style amenities. But if you're after a solid beach camping spot with good access and decent signal, this hits the mark.

      Would comeback!!

    • Richard Y.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 5, 2026

      Ogallala/I-80 KOA Journey

      Loud

      It's right off the interstate and the traffic noise is loudevenwith both AC units running you still hear the traffic.

    • GThe Dyrt PRO User
      May. 15, 2026

      Oregon Trail RV Campground

      Small, but quiet, with trees

      The park is small, but there is a mature cottonwood tree on each side of each site. Water and electric posts are shared between adjacent sites, so every other (odd number) site has the sewer dump on the opposite side from the water/electric. Water and electric work fine. Sites are very flat and are pull-through. A nearby trailer contains one toilet and shower stall that are clean and functional. Part of the trailer is being worked on, it appears. Washer and dryer are in the trailer, but we did not use them. Very quiet and peaceful. Occasional trains go by but are a nostalgic sound. Dogs very welcome. Tracks are only 50 yards from site #1.

    Guide to Big Springs

    Camping sites near Big Springs, Nebraska offer easy access to prairie landscapes and convenient stopping points for travelers crossing the Great Plains. The area sits at approximately 3,400 feet elevation with a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. While most developed camping areas are working farms or highway-adjacent facilities, they provide strategic overnight options for those traveling along I-80 between Missouri and Colorado.

    What to do

    Fishing opportunities: Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area provides excellent fishing options. "Morning catfishing right off the banks is excellent!" noted one visitor to Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground. The lake is also suitable for paddleboarding with one reviewer describing it as a "nice no wake lake. We enjoyed the lake to paddleboard around."

    Explore historical sites: The area contains significant pioneer history landmarks. "We spent several days learning about the history, walking part of the Oregon Trail, and even learned that the Mormon Trail came through this camp site," reported a camper at Oregon Trail RV Campground. Ogallala's boot hill cemetery offers historical perspective with one visitor noting it's "full of cutthroats and cowboys."

    Enjoy beach time: Lake McConaughy offers unusual white sand beaches in the Nebraska landscape. "Sandy beach that is as big as the panhandle itself (these are the sandhills of Nebraska)," wrote a visitor to Cedar View Campground — Lake McConaughy. The beaches provide swimming and relaxation options during summer months.

    What campers like

    Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathroom facilities. At Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA, campers praised "The bathroom and shower facilities were so wonderful - very clean and nice to use! We also appreciated them only being accessible by keycode." Another visitor noted "Bathrooms were clean. Downside is the lack of shade."

    Friendly hospitality: Local campground owners receive consistently positive feedback. At McGreer Camper Park, one reviewer shared, "The owner is wonderful. She even gave me some eggs for my breakfast and cucumbers as a snack for the road." Another camper at Oregon Trail RV Campground said, "The owner was a really nice guy and cared how the stay was going."

    Quiet surroundings: Despite highway proximity, many campgrounds maintain peaceful atmospheres. "Surprisingly quiet even though it was right off the highway," noted one visitor about McGreer Campground. At Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA, campers found it was "Super friendly staff and good amenities. Not far from I-80 but just enough that it is very peaceful and quiet."

    What you should know

    Seasonal considerations: Summer winds and storms can impact camping experiences. At Pony Express Park Chappell, one camper advised, "Be sure to drive your tent stakes deep in the sandy soil as the wind can blow pretty hard in the Nebraska panhandle at times." Another visitor at Lake Ogallala experienced "Real calm at dusk on this reservoir, it picked up real fast into a certified windstorm by 2AM."

    Changing fee structures: Some previously free camping areas now charge fees. Recent visitors to Pony Express Park reported, "It's not free anymore, but only 15 dollars a night" and "I stopped by after having discovered this free spot last year but they are now charging $15 a day."

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Big Springs located and how do I get there?

    Big Springs is located in western Nebraska, near Lake McConaughy, Nebraska's largest reservoir. The area is accessible via Interstate 80, which runs east-west through the region. If approaching from I-80, take the exit for Big Springs and follow the local signage. For visitors looking to stay nearby, Paxton Campgrounds is conveniently located just off I-80 at the Paxton exit with easy pull-through sites. Most roads in the area are well-maintained, though some areas around Lake McConaughy SRA may require 4WD or AWD vehicles, especially when accessing beaches or more remote areas.

    What activities can you do at Big Springs?

    Big Springs offers excellent water recreation opportunities, particularly at nearby Lake McConaughy. The area boasts beautiful white sand beaches and clear water perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Sandy Beach Campground provides beach access that feels like an ocean experience right in the middle of Nebraska. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy the lake breeze while camping near the shoreline. For those who prefer scenic views, Cedar View Campground sits on a tall cliff overlooking the lake, providing spectacular vistas. Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding Sandhills region, and wildlife watching is popular throughout the area. The region also offers historical attractions related to western pioneer trails.

    Is camping allowed at Big Springs?

    Yes, camping is allowed in the Big Springs area with several options available. Lone Eagle Campground offers mostly full hookup sites on the north shore of Lake McConaughy with fine white sand beaches and clean water. For a unique experience, Pony Express Park Chappell provides free camping around a pretty lake—just remember the local rule to "leave it cleaner than you found it" and drive tent stakes deep in the sandy soil. The region offers diverse camping options including beach camping, RV parks with full hookups, and more primitive sites. Fees vary by location, with state recreation areas typically charging entrance fees plus camping fees, while some local parks may be free or donation-based.

    What is the best time of year to visit Big Springs?

    Late spring through early fall (May to September) is generally the best time to visit Big Springs, when temperatures are warm enough for enjoying water activities at Lake McConaughy. Summer brings ideal conditions for beach camping and water recreation, though reservation systems at popular spots like Lemoyne - Lake McConaughy SRA are highly recommended during peak season. Be prepared for potential wind, especially at Martin Bay Campground where the lake's exposure can create breezy conditions. Fall offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds, while winter sees significantly reduced visitation. Weather can change quickly in Nebraska, so checking forecasts before your trip is advisable, particularly if planning beach activities.

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