Campsites near Du Bois, Nebraska offer access to outdoor recreation across Nebraska's southeastern region with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,100 feet above sea level. The area experiences seasonal temperature swings from below freezing in winter to humid 90°F days in summer, with spring and fall providing milder camping conditions. Primitive tent sites and developed RV camping options can be found within a 30-mile radius of Du Bois.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kirkmans Cove Recreation Area Campground provides a sand beach and boating access. "We enjoy Kirkman's for the sand beach and boating. The camper spots (electrical and non electrical) are nice, level, and shaded with mature trees," notes camper Caitlin R.
Hiking trails: Hackberry Hollow Campground at Indian Cave State Park offers approximately 20 miles of hiking trails. "There are about 20 miles to hike in this park and there is a special camping area for folks who bring horses," explains James D., adding "The caves were not what I expected. There is a fair amount of graffiti from local kids."
Wildlife viewing: Verdon Lake State Rec Area offers quieter wildlife observation opportunities in a less crowded setting. "The park was empty when we were there on a Sunday other than a man fishing in a little boat. The park appears to be well maintained and clean, and fairly active with wildlife. There was fish jumping out there and cranes were on the lake," reports Tony B.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the maintained bathrooms at Stanton Lake Park in Falls City. "This is an absolute beautiful city park. They have a little fishing lake, disc golf, volleyball courts, a playground, and a dog park... yes they have showers and very clean bathrooms," notes reviewer Tony B.
Historical features: The region contains interesting historical sites for exploration. "Indian Cave State Park is full of history! Every path or trail you go down, you will find some sort of blast from the past. The trails are wonderful and the old school house, old well, cave and other buildings are so fun to go explore," writes Caitlin R. about Ash Grove Campground.
Budget-friendly options: Many camping areas near Du Bois offer affordable rates. "Exceptional bargain. $5 for a tent, water, shower and electricity to recharge devices. Perfect amenities for bikepacking," says Bob W. about Stanton Lake Park, while LR C. adds it costs "$10 night to camp, $15 with hookups."
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Weather affects camping conditions significantly. "We went tent camping in August! The tent campgrounds were pretty empty... We loved the hiking trails through the trees and difficult terrain. This camping trip will be another one to complete...maybe in September or October next time," suggests Sarah J. about Ash Grove Campground.
Limited services: Some campgrounds have basic amenities only. At Pony Creek Lake, "Primitive camping only... Pony Creek Lake is mainly a fishing area but does offer primitive camping on the South West area of the lake. This area is a mowed flat section," explains Shannon G.
Wildlife encounters: Campers should prepare for local wildlife. "A giant raccoon tried to get into my cooler 10 minutes after we turned out our lights for the night. Lookout for ticks," warns Michael M. about Hackberry Hollow Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Iron Horse Trail Lake provides family-friendly amenities. "Good for families or a solo cowboy. Well maintained, water is a available, and clean bathrooms that smell good. Nice picnic areas. Primitive tent sites and RV sites with electrical hookups," notes Dana T.
Activities for children: Some campgrounds offer special events for families with children. "Everyone should experience Halloween here... We even won the decorating contest last year-The prize is free camping, can't beat that. People come from all over to partake in this fun time. There is the decorating of the camp sites, pumpkin rolling, haunted hay rack rides, trick or treating for the young and old," shares Shannon G. about Hackberry Hollow.
Swimming options: Water activities vary by location. Caitlin R. notes about Kirkmans Cove: "We're never bored! We like to visit the park in the spring and fall, only because there's no place for the kids to swim and cool down in the hot summer."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Sycamore Springs Whitetail Ranch RV Park offers full-service options but with space limitations. "There are two RV areas. The Sycamore Bluff Campground (North) and Shady Oak Campground (South)... The RV spots are pretty close together so backing in can be a challenge. The Sycamore Bluff Campground to the North of the campground has pull-through spots," explains Bryan R.
Connectivity challenges: Cell reception varies throughout the region. "Large park over 3,000 acres, plenty of hiking trails to enjoy... Forget about wifi, hard to find if you can find it at all and no attena tv, your really out in the middle of nowhere, but its a nice park to get away," notes Steve W. about Ash Grove Campground.
Dump station access: Plan departure timing carefully when using RV facilities. "Only downside, with 134 RV sites there is only one dump station, just dont get in a hurry leaving if you have to dump your RV," advises Steve W.
