Broken Bow sits in the central Nebraska Sandhills region at an elevation of 2,480 feet. The area features rolling hills covered with native prairie grasses and scattered wooded areas along the Middle Loup River valley. Local camping areas typically experience hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters that limit camping season at some sites.
What to do
Fishing at Calamus Reservoir: Access multiple fishing spots at Calamus Reservoir where the lake features a sand base. "This lake is amazing — clean and with a sand base," notes visitor D Marie S. The reservoir offers both shoreline fishing and boat access points.
Paddleboat rentals: Rent paddleboats at Victoria Springs State Recreation Area for exploring the small lake. "You can rent paddle boats for the small lake," according to Judy B., who visited the park in April and noted various recreational opportunities.
Disc golf course: Play a round at Lafayette Park Campground's course adjacent to the campground area. "I discovered this really large, open space park next to the grounds also had a disc golf course," reports Daniel B., who stopped at the park during a cross-country trip.
Hiking to lookout tower: Climb the fire tower at Bessey Recreation Complex for panoramic views. "The scott lookout tower can give you views across the Sandhills for miles upon miles on a clear day," shares Justin R. The trail includes a spring-fed trough halfway up for hikers needing water.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Experience peaceful midweek stays at less crowded campgrounds. "It fills up on the weekends but during the week you can have the entire campground to yourself," explains Barry M. about Victoria Springs State Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Find well-maintained bathrooms at several campgrounds near Broken Bow. "The restrooms and showers are very clean and accessible," notes Lumpie C. about Victoria Springs. Similarly, at Lafayette Park Campground, visitors appreciate that "bathrooms are older but clean and well maintained."
Budget-friendly options: Stay at affordable campgrounds without sacrificing quality. "For $20, would recommend. Full hook-ups," reports Ben P. about Tomahawk Municipal RV Park. Other nearby campgrounds offer rates between $15-30 per night with varying amenity levels.
Helpful camp hosts: Interact with knowledgeable local hosts who enhance the camping experience. "Camp hosts were amazing. Gave us firewood. Clean facilities. Well maintained," shares Jean H. about their experience at Victoria Springs State Recreation Area.
What you should know
Storm protection factors: Consider tree coverage when severe weather threatens. "The trees kept us protected from the wind and hail," reports Carrie B. about Bessey Recreation Complex Campground, noting how the forested setting provided shelter during a bad storm.
Train noise proximity: Prepare for train sounds at some locations. "The noise from the trains is unbearable," warns Kevin A. about Muny Park, while Jen P. notes about Cuzn Eddyz Campground, "The train tracks are close by so you might hear them."
Bug activity levels: Pack insect repellent, especially during summer months. "Bugs were pretty bad," reports Carrie B. about Victoria Springs State Recreation Area during summer camping.
Internet connectivity: Check cell service availability if staying connected matters. "Cell service available with both T-mobile/Mint (strongest) and Verizon/Visible," reports Judy B. about Victoria Springs, while access varies significantly at other locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with play areas for children. "The park has a basketball hoop, horseshoes, and a playground across the creek by the lake," shares Judy B. about Victoria Springs State Recreation Area. Similarly, Lafayette Park Campground offers "playground areas" near the campsites.
Swimming opportunities: Identify locations with swimming options during hot summer months. "We were hoping to take a dunk but no luck, 'No Swimming'" notes Shari M. about Lake Helen near Lafayette Park Campground, highlighting the importance of confirming swimming access before visiting.
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars for bird watching opportunities. "Merlin counted 10 different bird sounds here in April," reports Judy B. about the diverse birdlife at Victoria Springs State Recreation Area.
Multi-activity locations: Select campgrounds offering various recreation options in one place. "There's a nice pool, walking trail, and other activities," notes Kevin A. about Muny Park, providing multiple entertainment options without leaving the campground.
Tips from RVers
Satellite TV considerations: Position RVs strategically if satellite service is needed. "Access to clear line of site to south for Dish or Directv is difficult due to heavy tree population," warns Lumpie C. about Cuzn Eddyz Campground, highlighting reception challenges in wooded areas.
Level site selection: Look for specially prepared sites at certain campgrounds. "Most sites are level and well groomed grass with 2 new concrete handicap spots," notes Lumpie C. about Cuzn Eddyz Campground.
Emergency stopover options: Know where to find convenient overnight parking when travel plans change. "After being stranded for several hours with a flat tire we found ourselves behind schedule," shares Rachel C. about finding Taylor RV Park, which provided a simple solution with full hookups during an emergency.
Dump station availability: Verify waste disposal facilities before booking. "Dump station is easily accessible with a rinse water source," notes Lumpie C. about Victoria Springs State Recreation Area, while multiple reviewers mention dump stations at Lafayette Park and Taylor RV Park.
