Primitive dispersed camping sites at Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area extend across 1,707 acres with both prairie and shoreline options. The reservoir sits at approximately 3,112 feet elevation in southwestern Nebraska, experiencing hot summers and cold winters with strong winds year-round. Campsites around Enders offer varying levels of shade and wind protection depending on location, with primitive areas located farther from highway noise.
What to do
Fishing access: Champion Lake State Rec Area provides shoreline fishing without the crowds of the main reservoir. "Nice little campground when looking for a place to spend the night. On a little lake, was relatively clean," notes rick W.
Beach camping: Westshore Camping Area offers direct lake access for swimming and boating. "Dispersed sites are in back area of reservoir (down long dirt road around perimeter of reservoir) short distance away from sites is water with narrow sand beach. Nice for those fishing," writes alicianlv.
Golfing nearby: The golf course across from Enders Dam Campground provides an alternative recreation option. As one camper discovered, "there is a golf course across the road from the campground. I didn't get to check it out, but you can, if you are interested."
What campers like
Privacy in primitive areas: Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area offers secluded spots away from busier sections. "I went for the primitive. Not overly maintained. Some sites were hard to see. Down in the primitive there were no other campers," reports Steven L.
Affordability: Camping costs remain reasonable throughout the area. "Good place to speak the day and night, $12 for out of state $6 for local. My advice park closer to the lake, less road noise," suggests Jerry R.
Quiet evenings: St. Francis City Campground across the border in Kansas provides a peaceful alternative. "I stayed here on my first night in Kansas. The campground is nicely tucked away from the Main Highway. I got here in the evening and there were plenty of spaces. I think there might have been two other campers," shares Vania Z.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Choose locations based on your needs and timing. "Sites with either electric or not. The electric sites were fairly full (note these are located near the highway). From the primitives it is several hundred yards away to pit toilets," explains Steven L.
Water conditions vary: The reservoir experiences fluctuating water levels. "The campground is nice. There's hardly any water in it and it's very Rocky to put a boat in," warns Shauna T.
Insect preparedness: Westshore Camping Area and other waterfront sites require bug protection. "Only 'negative' is mosquitoes hence 3 stars but what can one expect so close to water?" notes alicianlv. Another camper confirms: "However, a pretty significant amount of mosquitoes from all the standing water."
Tips for camping with families
Free camping options: St. Francis City Campground provides no-cost primitive camping with amenities. "Free for tents and RV's if you boondock. $25 fee to hookup to electric and water. Shower house and bathrooms were a little run down, but worked just the same as a 5 star hotel," reports Gary S.
Convenience services: Some campgrounds offer unexpected amenities. "Pizza Hut, Dollar General and gas stations within walking distance. Our stay was quiet and we were the only campers," mentions Gary S. about St. Francis City Campground.
Water recreation planning: Champion Lake provides alternative swimming when Enders Reservoir conditions are poor. While the main reservoir can be "murky brown" according to some campers, Champion Lake offers a smaller but often cleaner option.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: Wray Hitch'n Post provides full-service sites within driving distance. "Full hook ups, nice showers, even laundry. Looks like some area workers may use this for full time rv'ing, but it was very quiet," reports Kris.
Site leveling considerations: Many area campgrounds have gravel sites requiring minimal leveling. "Sites are gravel but quite large. Full hookup and well placed," notes Roxanna L. at Ogallala KOA.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides more site options. "We got in superblate, after dark, and felt totally comfortable setting up. Bathroom and showers are convenient too!" shares Melissa B. about pet friendly camping near Enders, Nebraska.
