Camping sites near Elwood, Nebraska range from developed state recreation areas to primitive lakeside spots scattered across the central Nebraska plains. Located in Gosper County at an elevation of 2,654 feet, Elwood experiences hot, humid summers with daytime temperatures frequently reaching the 90s and relatively mild winters. Annual rainfall averages 23 inches, concentrated mostly from May through September, creating ideal camping conditions from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Sandy Channel State Recreation Area offers excellent fishing opportunities with multiple ponds within walking distance of all campsites. "Great smaller campground with lots of good fishing walking distance from all campsites and lots of hiking trails to multiple ponds," reports one visitor to Sandy Channel State Rec Area.
Swimming in clear water: The small designated swimming area at Sandy Channel provides a cooling spot during hot Nebraska summers. "There is a small 'beach' area designated for swimming in one of the ponds. The water was nice and cooled us down nicely," notes a camper who visited in August.
Kayaking access: Many campsites offer direct water access for small watercraft. At Sandy Channel, campers appreciate the easy lake access: "The spot is just a short walk from the small sand pit lake. Makes it ideal for early morning fishing and a quick kayak launch site," writes a reviewer who stayed in October.
Disc golf course: Lafayette Park in Gothenburg includes a disc golf course alongside other recreational facilities. A visitor to Lafayette Park Campground mentioned discovering "this really large, open space park next to the grounds also had a disc golf course" during their stay.
What campers like
Spacious, shaded campsites: Many campgrounds in the region feature mature trees providing essential shade during hot Nebraska summers. "This park is water and electric only. Has a dump station at the entrance. All sites are on grass or gravel and very close together. The park is well kept with plenty of mature shade trees," notes a camper at Lafayette Park.
Lakeside camping spots: Main Area Campground at Johnson Lake offers premium sites along the water. "There were plenty of sites during my stay in October, and the site I stayed at was right next to the lake. In the morning, the trees were beautifully lined along the campsites," shares one visitor who gave it a 5-star rating.
Early season tranquility: Spring and fall visitors often find uncrowded conditions. "We arrived here on March 1st and it was very silent, just one other camper. Spots are clean, squirrels running around, tables and firepits," reports a March visitor to Main Area Campground.
Evening wildlife viewing: Fireflies are a highlight for summer campers in this region. A visitor to Sandy Channel mentioned, "I do remember the fireflies fondly. There were tons." Another camper noted, "Wonderful bullfrog chorus very peaceful" when describing the nighttime experience.
What you should know
State Recreation Area permits: Nebraska requires entrance permits for State Recreation Areas in addition to camping fees. At Sandy Channel, a camper noted, "$15 to camp, $12 to enter if you're out of state." These fees apply to most state recreation areas in the region.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Phillips Lake State Recreation Area and similar primitive camping areas lack modern amenities. Sandy Channel campers should prepare accordingly: "There is no modern amenities so you will have to rough it for a few days," states one reviewer.
Highway noise impacts: Some campgrounds sit close to Interstate 80, creating consistent background noise. At Cozad Lake Wildlife Management Area, a camper observed, "The noise from I-80 is always there (about 200') but it's constant and was ok for us (rather than trains every 30 minutes)."
Water availability varies: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water access. A Sandy Channel visitor warned, "The state map of the campground shows hand pump well, BUT THE WELL HAS BEEN REMOVED." Always bring sufficient water when visiting primitive sites.
Tips for camping with families
Quiet recreation areas: Elwood Resort and Campground offers a peaceful environment away from busier recreation areas. "This friendly campground sits on The reservoir, and is about a 5 minute drive to Johnson Lake. Our kids enjoyed the quiet and loved being turned loose to enjoy the surroundings," shares a family who stayed there.
Playground equipment: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. At Inlet Campground — Johnson Lake State Recreation Area, one family reported, "Had trees to climb, swing set, and tether ball for kids while we sat and watched the lake."
Swimming access: When temperatures rise, having water access becomes essential for families. At Inlet Campground, a visitor noted, "Stopped here for just a night. Amazing! Here at end of August, beautiful views quiet and tranquil. Host was so kind. Had trees to climb, swing set, and tether ball for kids while we sat and watched the lake."
Early arrival recommendation: Popular family-friendly spots fill quickly on summer weekends. "Like I said in the title, if possible arrive early on the weekend or even a little earlier during the week to get the best spot in the area," advises a Sandy Channel camper who visited in October.
Tips from RVers
Easy access sites: Main Area Campground provides straightforward RV access. "Large well kept campground! Very easy to get in and out off and all facilities are top notch!" reports one RV camper.
Dump station availability: Some campgrounds have limited dump facilities that can become congested. A Main Campground visitor observed, "There's only one RV dump site which made for a huge line in the morning."
Electric hookups essential: Summer temperatures make electricity valuable for running air conditioning. Lafayette Park campers appreciate the amenities: "Water, electric for $25 a night. Dump station."
Wind protection considerations: Nebraska campgrounds experience significant winds that can impact RV awnings and outdoor equipment. Having trees or positioning your RV strategically helps mitigate this regional challenge.
