Valley View Flat Campground and Blue Heron Campground serve as popular camping destinations near Broken Bow, Nebraska. The region features rolling prairie landscapes with elevations ranging from 2,200 to 2,500 feet. Camping options include seasonal availability with most facilities open from May through October, though some locations remain accessible year-round with reduced services during winter months.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Valley View Flat Campground offers direct lake entry for paddlers. "Large well kept campground! Very easy to get in and out off and all facilities are top notch!" notes Alex R. about Main Area Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes in the area support various fish species. "There are three campgrounds, one near the entrance off the state road and two on either side of the inlet of the reservoir... Lots of fishing!" reports Reed about their stay at Main Area Campground.
Winter camping: Some campgrounds remain open year-round for visitors seeking off-season solitude. "We arrived here on March 1st and it was very silent, just one other camper. Spots are clean, squirrels running around, tables and firepits," explains Richard about winter camping at Main Area Campground.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Free or low-cost camping exists alongside premium sites. "There are about 10 spots around the pond. We took one of the pull through right next to I-80. Plenty of space, level, shade and if you just look at the lake: quit a nice view," mentions Frances about Cozad Lake Wildlife Management Area.
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathrooms and shower buildings receive consistent praise. "The restrooms and showers were emaculate," notes Cort B. about their experience at Blue Heron Campground.
Site spacing: Campgrounds offer varying degrees of privacy between sites. "The spots are close together but are lakeside, what a place to wake up! The hosts were friendly and the baths and bathrooms were nice enough," explains Reed about their lakeside experience.
What you should know
Shower costs: Many campgrounds charge for shower facilities. "BRING CASH and QUARTERS. The only annoying thing was needing quarters to shower. $1.25 for 7.5 minutes," advises Chuck M. after staying at Main Area Campground.
Weekend availability: Sites fill quickly during summer weekends without reservations. "We arrived at about 4 on a Saturday in June. All of the sites were first-come-first-served and the only thing available were the tent sites with no hook ups," shares Vanessa M. about Valley View Flat Campground.
Yurt camping Broken Bow, Nebraska options: While traditional yurts aren't widely available, several alternatives provide similar experiences. "There are also 3 cabins with swings, air, benches and fire pit which run $55 a night," mentions Shannon G. about Blue Heron's accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "The campground has laundry, playground, restrooms (which are very clean) and there's cute lamps scattered throughout," reports Shannon G. about Blue Heron Campground.
Grassy sites for kids: Look for campgrounds with open lawn areas. "Sites were very large with nice mature trees. We were the only people there other than the lady in charge so it was so peaceful and quiet. The dogs loved laying in the grass and frankly so did we," shares Preston G. about their experience at Main Area Campground.
Self-service check-in: Many campgrounds offer flexible arrival options. "We arrive at midnight the self checkin was easy," notes Chuck M., which can benefit families traveling with unpredictable schedules.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for sanitation needs. "Dump station and clean water are just before getting into the park on the left side. A well managed and maintained park," advises Sue B. after staying at Main Area Campground.
Electrical hookup verification: Some sites may have inactive power. "Check power at yr site before unpacking as some spots are locked. They plan to upgrade electrical but other things need doing first," recommends Heidi about Blue Heron Campground.
Large rig accommodation: Several campgrounds can handle substantial RV sizes. "FCFS, no reservations needed. About 10 electric sites, plenty of tent and/or primitive sites... We have a 38' 5th wheel and have no problem parking that and a boat and tow vehicle in our area," reports Danika S. about Valley View Flat Campground.
