The Fort Calhoun area offers camping options nestled along the Missouri River valley, where the elevation ranges from 970 to 1,100 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 86-90°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall bring more moderate conditions with occasional precipitation. Most campgrounds remain accessible from April through October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Hiking in the Loess Hills: At Hitchcock County Nature Center, trails showcase unique landforms found in only two places worldwide. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. I was very impressed on the hike in campsites. The views from the two south east campsites are amazing, looking over the Missouri River valley and the Omaha skyline in the distance," notes Aaron A.
Archery practice: Hitchcock Nature Center maintains a dedicated archery range for skill development. "As a family we go to Hitchcock a few times a year for the hiking and the archery range they have on-site. Both are excellent and a nice escape from the city," shares Pat V.
Educational programs: Seasonal nature programs provide learning opportunities for all ages. "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping," reports Lynn G.
What campers like
Backcountry camping: Hitchcock County Nature Center offers secluded sites away from crowds. "The park has cabins, rv sites, tent camping and backcountry hike in camping. The backcountry campsite have pads with pea gravel for tents and fire rings. Nice and quiet," explains Allison J.
Family-friendly amenities: Pine Grove RV Park includes recreational facilities for children. "We love the friendly staff, the onsite cafe, and the beautiful pool. The owners take great care of the pool, so our grandkids come out and swim with us whenever they can. So many campground pools are a bit scary, but not this one," says Allison B.
Proximity to town: Ashland RV Campground provides access to local amenities. "It is close to main street Ashland, which offers gourmet coffee, and a couple of restaurants. To entertain my kids (ages 6-12), there were several geocaches to find within walking distance, and the town has a splash pad and pool during the summer months," mentions Andrew D.
What you should know
Self-service registration: Some rv sites near Fort Calhoun, Nebraska operate with minimal staffing. "Stopped late after a long 12 hour drive. I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked. The facilities were impressively clean and well maintained," reports Abby W. at Hitchcock Nature Center.
Interstate noise levels: Pine Grove RV Park & Campground experiences some highway sound. "Some people complain about the I-80 noise, but it really varies. We never hear it when we are inside our motorhome. Some evenings it is pretty loud outside and others we can barely hear it," notes Allison B.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds restrict operations during colder months. One campground warns, "But supposedly they don't fill up completely. Surprise: make sure you talk to the rangers! Yay: well tended and updated campground. You can camp all year but I think they turn the water off," explains Lynn G.
Tips for camping with families
Hawk watching activities: Hitchcock Nature Center offers bird observation opportunities. "Great hiking in Loess Hills, great Nature Center especially with programming of 'Hawk Watch,'" says James M. The hawk observation tower provides educational viewing during migration seasons.
Beginner-friendly trails: Look for accessible pathways suitable for children. "There's even a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy. There's all levels of hikes. They have a hawkwatch tower. Lots of information about Hawks and nature conservation. We love doing their extra classes," Karen W. mentions.
Geocaching opportunities: Some locations feature scavenger-hunt style activities. "To entertain my kids (ages 6-12), there were several geocaches to find within walking distance, and the town has a splash pad and pool during the summer months," notes Andrew D. about Ashland RV Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: When booking rv campsites near Fort Calhoun, request outer spots to accommodate larger vehicles. "We got a spot right next to the bathroom. Decent park and great price! Every spot was filled the second night and the parks and recreation guys came through a few times checking on things," Wendy M. shares about Bob Hardy RV Park.
Dump station availability: Free dump stations can save costs when traveling. "Single free dump station as well. Small park in a cute neighborhood. 8 RV spots with electric and water. Tent camping as well. $15/night for RV spot. $10/night tent spots. 5 day max. Pay at the bath house, no host on site," explains Jacob T.
Site leveling requirements: Come prepared with leveling blocks. "The sites for big rigs are not 3 axle friendly. The site provided was not long or wide enough," notes one camper, while another mentions, "The gravel site we were on fit our 40 ft fifth wheel without a problem but was slightly off level" at Sunset at Blue Oasis RV Park.
