Victoria Springs State Recreation Area offers 27 campsites near Broken Bow, located in the Nebraska Sandhills region. The campground remains open from May to November, providing both electric and non-electric options on grassy sites. During weekdays, particularly outside peak season, the campground can be significantly less crowded, with some campers reporting having the entire area to themselves.
What to do
Explore the historic mineral springs: Victoria Springs State Recreation Area features mineral springs once renowned for their healing properties. "It was once part of the homestead of an early pioneer and Custer County judge Charles R. Mathews. Still on the site are the log cabins that Judge Mathews built— one as his home and the other as the first post office in Custer County," notes Tori K. at Victoria Springs State Rec Area.
Climb the lookout tower: The Scott Lookout Tower at Bessey Recreation Complex provides panoramic views across the Nebraska Sandhills. "The scott lookout tower can give you views across the Sandhills for miles upon miles on a clear day. Want stars at night? You can see them all," explains Justin R.
Go tanking on the river: A unique Nebraska activity available near the campgrounds involves floating down the river in repurposed livestock tanks. "Neighboring Thedford has Kayaks and Tanks you can rent. Tanking has become a Nebraska Thing. fitting a group of folks and possibly a keg in a horse tank and floating down river!" shares Charles C. from Bessey Recreation Complex Campground.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful setting at Victoria Springs. "This campground is small, the sites are open but not right next to each other. It was nice and quiet overnight. The tent sites have grass pads which are preferred because staking the tent is way easier in grass than rocky dirt or gravel," mentions Tori K.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution in this rural area creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing. "If you want to stay to yourself you have plenty of space to do so. If your looking for a group event. They have close RV pads," explains Jordan B. at Bessey Recreation Complex Campground.
Spacious sites: The equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer ample room. "Big and deep fire pits with gravel pads and patios. Lots of ATV activity because of the great trails. Clean bathrooms/bath house, but only 4 total stalls in the main camping area," notes Kelly L.
What you should know
Train noise at Bessey: While generally peaceful, Bessey Recreation Complex experiences regular train traffic. "Bit of train noise during the day, but didn't really notice it overnight," reports Kelly L. at Bessey Recreation Complex Campground.
Seasonal maintenance varies: Some facilities receive better care depending on the season. "Victoria Springs has 2 different areas for camping. One area is for tent camping ($15 a day) and has a small lake with paddle boats to use. The lake has an algae issue right now," observes Shannon G.
Bug preparation needed: Insects can be prevalent, particularly in warmer months. "Great spot with lots of trees and good sized sites. I arrived on a Sunday afternoon and they were only half full & by night only a few more people came. Bugs were pretty bad," warns Carrie B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Victoria Springs offers recreational amenities for children. "The park has a basketball hoop, horseshoes, and a playground across the creek by the lake. Most sites are electric and 6 that are non-electric, and water hydrants are sprinkled throughout the campground," says Judy B. at Calamus Reservoir.
Water activities: Lakes in the area provide family-friendly entertainment options. "A lot of campsite. Can rent boats and jet skies. Multiple convenient stores. About five miles from nearest town. Nice swimming and fishing spots. Love going there," recommends Kathryn H.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural surroundings offer chances to observe local fauna. "Lots of pretty scenery and wildlife. Very peaceful. Nice trails. Big and deep fire pits with gravel pads and patios," shares Kelly L.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most horse campgrounds near Broken Bow offer electrical connections. "Most sites are shaded, quiet the night I was there. 50/30 Amp, water available, and rv dump. You will need to pay for daily State Park pass plus overnight camping cost," advises Elizabeth M. at Camp Arrowhead.
Site selection for large rigs: Some locations accommodate larger vehicles better than others. "Rig Size: large rigs fit in some sites. Sites: sites near the water beginning with number 33 are not that great. They don't have a good view," suggests Roger W.
Weather considerations: The open landscape can experience significant weather events. "Great spot with lots of trees and good sized sites. Unfortunately a bad storm moved in so we weren't able to enjoy the evening. The trees kept us protected from the wind and hail," explains Carrie B.
