Tent campsites near Du Bois, Nebraska are predominantly located in rural areas with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,100 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with hot summers and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Most camping options are situated within a 30-mile radius of Du Bois, offering varying levels of isolation and basic amenities in predominantly agricultural landscapes.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pony Creek Lake features primitive camping with access to quality fishing. According to Shannon G., "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."
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding Hoot Owl Bend provide excellent wildlife observation opportunities. One camper mentioned, "There is a nice walk towards the water, just wear pants and closed shoes to avoid the stinging nettle. This spot would be great for bird watchers."
Water recreation: Kirkmans Cove Recreation Area Campground offers both camping and beach access. A visitor noted, "We enjoy Kirkman's for the sand beach and boating. The camper spots are nice, level, and shaded with mature trees."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Wirth Brothers Lake provides camping spots that offer more seclusion than many public campgrounds. A camper observed, "I enjoyed camping here the grounds were well maintained. It is off the beaten path and has camping spots that offer some seclusion from other people."
Simple amenities: Primitive camping at Wirth Brothers Recreation Area includes basic but functional facilities. As Shannon G. described, "It has a few fire rings, and raised grills. There are picnic tables and a covered group picnic shelter. There is drinking water, bathrooms, playground, archery, and a swimming beach."
Level terrain: Kirkmans Cove Recreation Area provides favorable camping surfaces. One visitor mentioned, "The camper spots (electrical and non electrical) are nice, level, and shaded with mature trees."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding risks: Multiple camping areas near the Missouri River experience periodic flooding. A recent update about Brownville Riverside Park stated, "The river has flooded it out as of June 28, 2024 and it will likely be unusable for at least the remainder of this season."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites near Du Bois offer truly primitive experiences. At Hoot Owl Bend, a camper reported, "A nice little clearing easy to set up a tent in. There also is no fire pit or amenities at this site."
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds can be difficult to locate. At Feits Memorial Park, a frustrated camper noted, "Tried to find this park using the 'Get Directions'. The place it took us there is no park of any kind. It was a residential neighborhood."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: When camping with children, consider locations with recreational facilities. At Kirkmans Cove, one camper mentioned, "One disappointment is the playground which is dated and not much to offer. Overall, we enjoy the camp ground and visit it often!"
Beach access for children: Pony Creek Lake provides water access that appeals to families, though with minimal facilities. One regular visitor cautioned, "I've only ever found one small area that's actually 'officially' marked for camping, and it's nowhere near any facilities."
Wildlife awareness: Families should be prepared for nighttime wildlife encounters. At Hoot Owl Bend, one camper reported, "I did hear animals huffing and saw some shadows run next to the truck at like 2am."
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Most camping areas near Du Bois have limited improvements for larger vehicles. Regarding Hoot Owl Bend, one visitor advised, "It seems like a bad place to park for the night; sign says area closed 10pm-4am, so camping of any kind seems unallowed."
Post-flood conditions: For RV campers considering Brownville Riverside Park, recovery from flooding has been ongoing. A visitor noted, "A majority of the silt and debris has been cleared, and the boat ramp for the Missouri River at the north end is accessible."
Self-sufficiency requirement: The lack of hookups and facilities means preparation is essential. One camper at Pony Creek Lake advised, "If you're a stickler for following the rules, you better be prepared to be completely self contained."
