Campgrounds near Fairbury, Nebraska sit in the Great Plains region at elevations between 1,300-1,500 feet, characterized by gently rolling prairie terrain and seasonal weather fluctuations. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F during camping season, with cool nights dropping to 60-65°F. Most established campgrounds in the area provide electrical hookups and potable water, though sites tend to fill quickly on holiday weekends.
What to do
Fishing in spring-fed lakes: Crystal Springs Lake features three small lakes stocked with fish where anglers can cast from shore or small watercraft. "This is a nice spot for kayak and camping. There are 3 small spring fed lakes that are open for fishing," notes a visitor at Crystal Springs Lake.
Explore historical sites: Rock Creek Station State Recreation Area preserves historical structures related to the Pony Express and Oregon Trail. "Interpretive center related to the Pony Express and Oregon Trail in the adjacent Historical Park. Paved road access to the park from both the north and the south from US HWY 136 or NE HWY 8," reports one camper at Rock Creek Campground.
Disc golf and river walks: Riverside Park in Beatrice offers recreational activities beyond camping. "The reason to stay was to Frisbee golf and camp ALL weekend. They have a nice 18 hole course throughout the park. Sheltered bathrooms and drinking fountains were just a few of the amenities offered at the grounds."
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Visitors appreciate the tranquility at Alexandria Lakes State Recreation Area during non-peak times. "I was the only camper but they tell me it fills on the weekends. Weekdays not so much. There was a Camphost and a snack bar that was suppose to open today," shares one camper at Alexandria Lakes State Rec Area.
Kayaking opportunities: Paddlers enjoy the no-wake lakes at Lone Star Recreation Area. "Great place for kayak fishing. The town of Milligan nearby is really cute. Avoid mid July if you don't want a crowd. That's when they have Milligan Days," advises one regular visitor to Lone Star Rec Area.
Free camping options: Some municipal parks offer free or low-cost camping. "This roadside veteran style park is perfect for setting up camp and resting your eyes. This campground is FREE and offers electricity and water hook-ups. If you have kids there is a playground and ample room for your human or fur babies to run free and burn energy."
What you should know
Varying shower facilities: Bathroom and shower quality differs between campgrounds. "Bathroom & shower are clean but no towels to dry hands with," reports one camper at Crystal Springs Lake, while at Riverside Park in Beatrice, a camper notes, "The toilets are OK, but just what you'd expect at a public park, nothing fancy. There were no showers."
Limited tent sites: Some campgrounds primarily cater to RVs. At Rock Creek Station, a visitor points out: "Broadcasting this now because I was not aware when I showed up: there are only two designated tent sites in this entire campground. However, both these sites are clean, beautiful, and located near the trail."
Wildlife considerations: Local lakes have resident wildlife that affects swimming. "I would say the only downside to this campground is the abundance of snapping turtles you can still fish and kayak just no swimming," warns a camper at Crystal Springs Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and open spaces: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Chester Municipal Park, a visitor notes, "If you have kids there is a playground and ample room for your human or fur babies to run free and burn energy."
Swimming areas with restrictions: Lone Star Recreation Area offers swimming options during summer months. "Camped here over the Fourth of July weekend and was surprised that it was only about 3/4 of the way full. Quite a bit of day use traffic with people kayaking and fishing, but remained peaceful and relaxing place."
Level sites for easy setup: At Riverside Park in Hebron, sites are designed for hassle-free camping. "We are at a level concrete pad site. Water is available but not at our site. There are two long-term campers here with permits. Some sites have concrete, others are grass. $15 for the night."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer electric, water, and sometimes sewer connections. "Sites are big enough for our 38 foot 5th wheel with room to spare. Each site has 30 and 50 amp electric. Water also at each site."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have on-site dump stations. "There is no dump station. The nearest one is about 6 miles North at Milligan at a gas station along highway 41," advises a camper at Lone Star Recreation Area.
Off-season considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. "No water after Nov. 1 and have to fill from well pump," notes a camper at Rock Creek Station State Recreation Area about seasonal changes to amenities.
