Equestrian camping near Crawford, Nebraska offers direct access to scenic pine ridge terrain with elevations ranging from 3,600 to 4,400 feet. The Nebraska National Forest and surrounding recreation areas provide over 100 miles of riding trails through mixed grasslands and ponderosa pine forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with cooler evenings in the 50s.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrians visiting Nebraska National Forest at Chadron can explore interconnected trail systems with varying difficulty levels. According to Susan L., "I spent 3 days hiking in this Forest and enjoyed every minute on each trail. This area has such differing geography. I'd begin the hike in the Forest, climb up to the ridge and catch views all the way into the vast, flat Buffalo National Grasslands area."
Swimming and water recreation: When temperatures rise, Box Butte Reservoir provides water-based activities. One camper notes, "Reservoir was low but ppl fishing, tubing and having fun. Some sites close together along reservoir." The reservoir offers boat ramps and fishing opportunities throughout summer months.
Historical exploration: Fort Robinson State Park features numerous historical buildings and exhibits documenting its military history and role in frontier settlement. A visitor to Red Cloud Campground explains, "This area is prime for equestrians with many trails to explore on horseback. Numerous trails aren't quite as friendly for hiking on foot because of tall grass."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: At Sheps Canyon Recreation Area, equestrian sites include private horse stalls and large gravel camping pads. One camper reports, "Further down were equestrian sites with large gravel sites and private horse stalls. There was water available to fill our fifth wheel at the front of the camp where we entered along with a dump site."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Crawford area maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor to Soldier Creek Campground shares, "Bathrooms were a short walk away and a shower house was within a 5 min walk. The grass was well trimmed and the campsite was very clean."
Wildlife viewing: The varied terrain provides habitat for deer, turkey, and numerous bird species. Janet K. mentions, "Supposed to be good birding here but nothing special." Many campgrounds have designated wildlife viewing areas within short walking distance of campsites.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance booking, especially during peak summer months (June-August). At Fort Robinson State Park, specialized equestrian facilities fill quickly on weekends.
Terrain challenges: Horse trails vary significantly in difficulty. Some routes become overgrown during mid-summer. A visitor at Chadron State Park observes, "There was evidence of old wildfires on the western slopes, but otherwise the lodgepole pine trees were beautiful."
Fee structure: State park entry permits are required in addition to camping fees. One Red Cloud visitor explains, "NE SP requires a pass for each motorized vehicle. In state is $6 per day or $30 annual. Out of state is $12 per day or $60 annual. $30 per day plus cost of pass."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Chadron State Park offers a swimming pool suitable for children of different ages. A camper notes, "The park has pretty much everything: a fishing pond, a trading post for basic camp supplies and some food, swimming pool, seasonal horseback trail rides, archery range, tennis court, disc golf, sand volleyball, horseshoe pits, softball field, playground."
Kid-friendly activities: Fort Robinson State Park provides structured activities like Jeep tours and stagecoach rides appropriate for children. A visitor recalls, "Fort Robinson State Park is an activity packed park in Northwestern Nebraska, with some interesting history."
Campsite selection: When camping with children, choose sites closer to restroom facilities. One camper at Soldier Creek mentions, "Wonderful campsite! I camped solo here a couple of weeks ago and there was plenty of space with trees, a fire pit, and picnic table. I had neighbors but there was plenty of space that I didn't feel like they were encroaching on my site."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups are limited at some campgrounds. A camper at Red Cloud Campground notes, "This is a full hookup (electric/water/sewer) campground, appears to be recently updated. Concrete pad, fairly level. Picnic table and grill in each site. Few trees, mixture of shade and non shade sites."
Site accessibility: Most campgrounds accommodate larger rigs, but access roads may present challenges. One visitor reports, "Incredibly rough (paved) access roads to the campground. Nothing but dead dry grass around you. Highway noise VERY prevalent right behind the camp site."
Parking considerations: When bringing horse trailers, confirm space availability. At Sheps Canyon, "We were one minute from the boat ramps. Just be aware that there is an additional fee for state parks in South Dakota. We paid $60 for a nonresident one year pass otherwise it would have been $15 per day park entry fee."
