Valley View Flat Campground and Carney Park offer glamping options near Ericson, Nebraska, in the scenic Sandhills region. The area sits at approximately 2,100 feet elevation with typical continental climate patterns of hot summers and cold winters. Central Nebraska's natural waterways, including the Calamus Reservoir, create opportunities for water recreation alongside traditional camping experiences.
What to do
Boating access: Valley View Flat Campground provides convenient boat docking facilities for visitors bringing watercraft. "Making the trek back East, I needed a place to crash for the night. Quiet campground and a beautiful view off the lake," notes Shawn A., who appreciated the waterfront location at Valley View Flat Campground.
Local exploration: The town of O'Neill offers restaurants and services for campers staying at nearby sites. "We had a great one night stay when we were passing through O'Neil on our way to South Dakota. Cute town, ok bath house and a cute play park with swings, etc. Quiet at night," shares Carissa W. about her experience at Carney Park.
Evening recreation: Sunset viewing becomes a highlight activity for many visitors. "Spent a night here by the water and experienced a beautiful sunset. Its a perfect place to camp for a night or kayak for an afternoon," reports Abigail C. about the evening atmosphere at Valley View Flat Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "Had a great experience tenting here. Bathrooms were very clean and overall had an amazing experience. I would recommend this spot to anyone especially for tenting," notes Chelsey about Valley View Flat Campground.
Level camping pads: The concrete pads at several sites provide stable foundations for various camping setups. "Very clean and sites are level. Clean showers and restroom," reports Chris C. about the camping conditions at Carney Park.
Space for larger rigs: Some camping areas accommodate substantial equipment without crowding. "We have a 38' 5th wheel and have no problem parking that and a boat and tow vehicle in our area," mentions Danika S., describing the spacious sites at Valley View.
What you should know
Payment systems: Different campgrounds operate various payment methods. "Self serve payment envelopes. A handful of other campers around the CG that has about 16 (?) sites," explains lee's freelance M. about the check-in process at Carney Park.
Shower costs: Prepare coins for shower facilities at some locations. "You have to pay for showers. 1.25 for 6 minutes got the job done," advises Shawn A. regarding facilities at Valley View Flat Campground.
First-come, first-served policies: Some campgrounds don't accept advance bookings. "FCFS, no reservations needed. About 10 electric sites, plenty of tent and/or primitive sites," explains Danika S. about the availability system at Valley View Flat Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children can enjoy dedicated play areas at certain campgrounds. "Cute play park with swings, etc. Quiet at night. The road into the campground was a little busy during the day due to the construction on the main road into town," mentions Carissa W. about the family-friendly features at Carney Park.
Multiple camping styles: Sites accommodate various camping preferences within one location. "About 10 electric sites, plenty of tent and/or primitive sites. Boat dock, shower house, clean restrooms," notes Danika S., highlighting the options available at Valley View Flat Campground.
Short-term options: Many campers find these locations ideal for brief stays. "We had a great one night stay when we were passing through O'Neil on our way to South Dakota. Would stay here again but only for one night probably," suggests Carissa W. based on her family's experience.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: RV campers appreciate the hookup options available. "Water and electric with pad and picnic tables and trees for $20! Also some tent sites," reports lee's freelance M. about the amenities at Carney Park.
Stay duration limits: Be aware of maximum stay policies at municipal parks. "City Park. Stay up to 3 days without checking in to the city offices. Donation but they do charge $10 per nite if the stay is over 3 days," advises Chris C. about Carney Park's policies.
Seasonal availability: Not all facilities remain open year-round. "The bathrooms and shower were not open yet. Quit park, full electric pad, and water," notes JAMES B. about early spring conditions during his off-season visit to Carney Park.
