Crawford, Nebraska sits at an elevation of 3,675 feet in the Pine Ridge region of northwest Nebraska. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures reaching into the 90s and cold winters that can drop below zero. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, with limited winter camping options at Eagles Rest RV Park which operates year-round.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Soldier Creek Campground offers direct access to trail systems. "If you like to hike and fish there is a trail that goes west from the campsites 1.3 miles to 3 ponds filled with brown trout," notes Ryan S.
Historic explorations: Visit Fort Robinson State Park and its museums for military history. "There are loads of activities close by to do and see including historic sites, museum, swimming pool, fishing, Jeep rides, it's seriously endless," shares Candy L.
Bird watching opportunities: The natural areas around Crawford attract diverse bird species. "Small, peaceful camping spot. Great birds!" reports Janet K. about Soldier Creek Campground, mentioning the variety visible right from camp.
Museum visits: The Museum of the Fur Trade in neighboring Chadron makes for an educational day trip. "Really interesting museums in area of chadron Nebraska. Museum of the fur trade," writes Jeannie E. who stayed at Eagles Rest RV Park.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Despite proximity to highways, many campgrounds offer quiet environments. "Harrison is very nicely kept and amazingly quiet at night," according to James B. who appreciated the Harrison City Park camping area.
Full hookup options: RV campers appreciate the comprehensive services at several parks. At J & C RV Park, Kerry K. found "a nice site with full hookups. Grounds are well maintained with lots of grassy areas to walk the pup."
Affordable pricing: Most campgrounds offer reasonable rates with varying amenities. "Chose to stay two nights here to allow us to visit Agate Fossil Beds National Monument and Fort Robinson. Stay is donation based with deposit right next to camp sites," reports James B. about Harrison City Park.
Natural surroundings: The Pine Ridge area provides scenic backdrops for camping. "This area is used frequently by those riding horseback as there is a horse corral next to a couple of the campsites to the south," notes Ryan S. about the landscape at Soldier Creek.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Railway lines run through Crawford with freight traffic. At Crawford City Park, Daniel C. notes: "Clean campground, 4 sites with electricity and water ($20). Many sites without electricity ($10). The noise is from the 4-BNSF trains per hour coming from/going to the Wyoming coal fields."
Weight restrictions: Some access roads have vehicle weight limits. "5 ton weight limit on bridge to get in!!" warns Joel L. about Crawford City Park.
Weather preparation: The area can experience strong winds and rapid temperature changes. At Soldier Creek, one camper advises having "a decent tent" due to being a "very windy campground at night."
Seasonal facility changes: Many campground amenities change based on season. "Bathrooms and water here, fire rings," notes Daniel S. about Soldier Creek facilities, but these may be winterized during colder months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Crawford City Park offers recreational facilities for children. "Great playground for kids. Walking Trail nearby," notes William B.
Educational opportunities: The region contains numerous historic and natural science sites. "We went to camp at Fort Robinson State Park to visit Agate Fossil Beds National Monument," explains one camper, highlighting educational day trips available.
Swimming options: During summer months, swimming facilities provide family recreation. "There is an indoor swimming pool" at Fort Robinson State Park, according to Pam R., along with "jeep tours, short and long horseback trail rides, stagecoach rides."
Space considerations: Camping areas vary in size and privacy. Harrison City Park sites are "basically two parking stalls on a concrete pad. The only way to fit two RVs at a time would be if they were both vans, and that would be tight," advises James B.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Plan your waste management carefully. At Crawford City Park, James B. notes "There is a dump site located near the sites, which you have to drive into the grass to use."
Satellite considerations: Tree coverage affects connectivity. "Had difficulty finding a view of the sky for Starlink due to trees. Good Verizon signal so no problem," reports James B. about Crawford City Park.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment for comfort. At the Hot Springs / Black Hills KOA, Sam C. found "a tight and short pull-thru site that was fairly un-level. It took some work and a bunch of blocks to get things close to level."
Power management: Electrical surges can occur. "Our power pedestal had an electrical short and shorted out our Progressive 30-amp surge protector. Thankfully we had a surge protector and it took the electrical hit and not our trailer," warns Sam C. about potential electrical issues during RV camping near Crawford, Nebraska.
