Tent campsites near Elwood, Nebraska exist primarily in wildlife management areas across the central plains region at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 2,800 feet. These public lands experience significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping below 20°F. Annual rainfall averages 24 inches, concentrated primarily between April and August, creating varying ground conditions for tent setup throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Blue Hole Wildlife Management Area offers a small pond with boat launch access for anglers seeking bass and panfish. According to Brittany G., "There were a few spots. I took the first one across the pond. I was the only one on a Tuesday night. Super close to a gas station."
Wildlife observation: Box Elder Canyon WMA provides habitat for native wildlife including deer and various bird species. Rebecca W. notes, "We had a couple of friendly people stop by with helpful tips- like look out for rattlers this time a year. It was a perfect spot for our two-day stay."
Boat launching: Jeffrey Canyon State Wildlife Area features reservoir access popular with local anglers. Shannon G. observed, "When we drove in there was a boat ramp, 1 tent site with a picnic table and fire ring, and 1 spot for an RV to park with no hookups."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: The primitive camping areas near Elwood offer cost-effective overnight accommodations for travelers. Paul L. appreciated Box Elder Canyon WMA, stating, "Great place to lay our heads for the night. Peaceful and quiet. Very rustic. No facilities whatsoever. Best part was that it was FREE."
Convenient highway access: Most tent campsites near Elwood provide quick access from major travel routes. Carson H. commented about Box Elder Canyon, "Less than 10 mins off the highway. Rolled in about 11pm; easy to find and a very quiet area. Great ATT phone service."
Scenic reservoir views: Blue Hole Wildlife Management Area offers water views despite its proximity to highways. Ben B. noted, "This is a small area with a pond just off the interstate. A little sketchy but not quite as sketchy as some of the other wildlife management areas on this stretch of I-80."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Tent camping sites around Elwood require complete self-sufficiency. Lindsey J. reported about Blue Hole WMA, "I did not see any toilets, picnic tables, or fire rings in the parking area, there was a boat launching spot and a small trail to lead to the lake. There is a gas station up the road."
Insect considerations: Certain camping areas experience significant tick and mosquito activity, particularly in warmer months. Arion S. warned about Box Elder Canyon, "I found 5 ticks in my clothes and on my gear before I decided I couldn't safely find them all and had to bail. Maybe I just got unlucky, but be very prepared to deal with ticks if you decide to visit."
Road traffic: Some camping areas experience vehicle traffic throughout the night. Erica C. noted at Box Elder Canyon WMA, "Several cars drove by on the road, some as late as 2:30 in the morning. Also, the cows nearby were super loud. Not the best sleep but hey, it's a free site."
Tips for camping with families
Security considerations: Some camping areas near Elwood experience occasional nighttime visitors. Melia S. cautioned about an experience at Blue Hole WMA: "Around 4:30 AM a car pulled in quietly and parked right next to our van. The only reason we woke up was because our dog started barking and freaking out. A guy was outside smoking and putting some things in a bag."
Limited tent space: Many tent campsites have restricted flat areas suitable for setup. Dennis N. commented that Blue Hole WMA is a "Nice place spot for two weeks close to highway but overall not bad spot."
Navigation challenges: Finding some tent camping areas can be difficult without local knowledge. Shannon G. noted about Jeffrey Canyon, "This campground was hard to find, even with GPS. Finally a local came by to show us where it was."
Tips from RVers
Limited parking areas: Most dispersed tent camping sites near Elwood have restricted vehicle access and turning space. Michael G. observed at Box Elder Canyon WMA, "Traveling in Nebraska around North Platte this is an easy access for quite night rest. Only one vehicle in the night drove by. Super quiet."
Uneven terrain: Many camping areas feature sloped or uneven ground that may present challenges for larger vehicles. Lindsey J. described Blue Hole WMA: "There were two spots to park and a cul-de-sac at the end of the road. One of the spots was slanted and the other spot was flat, neither were good for large campers."
