Camping sites near Brady, Nebraska include a mix of reservoir access points and park-based options across Lincoln County. The area sits at approximately 2,650 feet elevation in the South Platte River Valley, with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most camping options focus on fishing access, with several Wildlife Management Areas providing minimal amenities but direct water access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At I-80 Lakeside Campground, campers can enjoy the small lake for catch-and-release fishing. "There is a nice little lake that you can swim and fish (catch and release only), or rent a kayak or little boat," reports one visitor. The campground also rents boats and kayaks for those without their own equipment.
Wildlife viewing: The Jeffrey Canyon State Wildlife Area offers more than just camping. "The terrain begins to climb then you sharply turn to access the area. As you travel down the road to Jeffrey Canyon the corn fields abound and thrive," notes one visitor. The reservoir attracts many fishermen and boaters, making it a good spot for wildlife observation.
City attractions: When staying at Cody City Park Campground, take advantage of the adjacent park facilities. "A full list of Cody Park's amenities can be found below: Animal Enclosure: Including deer, elk, burros, sheep, peafowl, ducks and geese is also part of the park (all animals are shown in a natural setting), Carpenter Softball Complex, Cody Pool," explains one camper. The park also features disc golf, horseshoe pitching, and three playground areas.
What campers like
Convenient lake access: Many campers appreciate the direct water access at West Maxwell WMA. One visitor notes, "Beautiful little pond for fishing if you have a kayak. The bank is surrounded by cattails with a nice ramp and only two wheelchair accessible peers to fish from." Another adds, "It is right off the freeway, but we didn't even notice the freeway noise. Honestly there's a few of acres of corn field and also a pond."
Affordable pricing: Campers consistently mention reasonable rates across the Brady area. At Muny Park, one camper states, "This place has electric, water, and a dump station for $15 a night. INSANE! It's in a clean/well kept area." Another review noted, "Nice sites and location especially for the price," highlighting the value offered at many camping locations in the region.
Shade coverage: Many sites feature mature trees providing relief from summer heat. At Lafayette Park Campground, campers enjoy "grassy with mature trees and shade." Another visitor specifically mentions "Lafayette City Campground is a nice place with huge cottonwoods and larger spaces." This natural shade makes summer camping more comfortable in the Nebraska heat.
What you should know
Varying bathroom conditions: Campground facilities range widely in quality and cleanliness. At Lake Maloney State Recreation Area, one camper mentions, "There appears to be one central rest room with flush toilets and pay showers. Pretty rundown." Another notes, "Clean and functional bathrooms," showing experiences can differ even at the same location.
Wildlife Management Area limitations: Most WMAs lack basic facilities. A West Maxwell WMA visitor explains, "The spot is a small parking lot down a dirt road. It has nice views of the lake and ample places to park." At Box Elder Canyon WMA, campers note "No amenities at all," making these options suitable only for self-contained camping.
Railroad proximity: Train noise affects several campgrounds in the area. A Muny Park camper warns, "The noise from the trains is unbearable." Another mentions, "Train tracks are close by," suggesting light sleepers should bring earplugs when camping at certain locations near Brady.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Blue Heron Campground provides family-friendly amenities despite its rustic setting. "The campground has laundry, playground, restrooms (which are very clean) and there's cute lamps scattered throughout," notes one visitor. Several other campgrounds in the area feature playgrounds, making them suitable for families with young children.
Swimming options: During summer months, some campgrounds offer swimming access. At I-80 Lakeside Campground, a family notes, "We were nestled between the lake, the playground and the dog off-leash area. Our girls were able to go back and forth independently, as we could see them from our campsite." Cody Park includes a community pool that campers can access during summer.
Animal attractions: Children often enjoy the wildlife exhibits at Cody City Park Campground. "I did see some deer and geese in a fenced in area around a small lake or pond," mentions one camper. The animal enclosures feature deer, elk, burros, sheep and various birds in natural settings, providing educational opportunities for children.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad availability: Muny Park offers solid foundations for RVs. "The sites are all back in and concrete pads, with some trees lining the backside of the RVs. Power and water are at the sites and a dump in the park," explains one RV camper. This makes for more stable and level parking, especially during rainy conditions.
Pull-through accessibility: Several reviewers note the ease of pull-through sites at I-80 Lakeside Campground. "Without a reservation, we were able to show up and get a spot with ALL our wants 50A—water—pull through site," shares one RVer. Another mentions, "Good space for sites. Right off of I-80 for a stop for the night," highlighting the convenience for travelers.
RV size considerations: Most campgrounds can accommodate medium-sized RVs, but larger rigs may find limitations. "We're in a 30' bumper pull and there were bigger rigs in this campground as well," notes a visitor to I-80 Lakeside Campground. Holiday RV Park in North Platte also provides sites for larger RVs, with one camper noting, "Level gravel sites, right off of I80, close to shopping and restaurants."
