Camping options near Gering, Nebraska sit at elevations between 3,900 and 5,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations. The western Nebraska region receives relatively low annual rainfall, averaging just 16 inches per year, which contributes to the semi-arid landscape. Summer temperatures regularly climb into the 90s, while winter nights can drop well below freezing, making spring and fall popular camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking at Wildcat Hills SRA: Explore multiple interconnected trails that reach elevations up to 5,000 feet with minimal maintenance for a more rugged experience. "This beautiful recreation area just South of Gering Nebraska is just minutes away from geological wonders such as Chimney Rock, Jailhouse Rock and Scott's Bluff National Memorial Park. Wildcat offers Archery, gun range, biking, hiking, picnicking, a playground, nature center and hunting," notes one visitor at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area.
Fishing at Lake Minatare: The lake provides catch-and-release fishing opportunities, particularly for those staying at nearby campsites. At Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing, a camper reports: "There is a small pond you can fish at and so my husband did. It's catch and release only. While he fished I walked around the pond and saw the biggest bullfrogs ever."
Evening viewing at Chimney Rock: Visit this historic landmark after sunset when it's illuminated against the dark sky. "My husband had never seen Chimney Rock, and I had never seen Chimney Rock lit up at night. All I have to say is Wow!" shares an enthusiastic visitor who adds, "Quick drive to see Chimney Rock closer and a few trails to hike if you like. Visitors Center is 2 min away."
What campers like
Affordable full hookups: Many campgrounds in the area offer reasonably priced sites with complete amenities. At Riverside Park Campground, campers appreciate "full hookups for $25—made it a reasonable choice for a last-minute overnight stay. Within a short distance of Scottsbluff NPS, and that made it convenient for our plans."
Open prairie camping: For those seeking a more natural experience, some local areas offer wide-open spaces rather than traditional campgrounds. One camper at Peaceful Prairie Campsites shares: "We loved this experience, which is more than just camping. Lisa was exceptionally welcoming and helpful. The prairie is beautiful and the views of the bluff are spectacular! Horses and cows roam. Camping is in an open prairie…plenty of space."
Spacious, level sites: Many RV parks in the region feature concrete pads with ample space between sites. According to a visitor at Robidoux RV Park: "One nice thing was the sites are plenty big. We didn't feel like we were right on top of each other. Excellent cell coverage. We would stay again."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Summer temperatures regularly hit 90-100 degrees, requiring extra water and heat management. A camper at Robidoux RV Park warns: "Don't put a tent or anything you don't want getting wet on the grass next to your pad, the underground sprinklers come on like clock work."
Reservation timing: Several campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. As one visitor to Riverside Park Campground explains: "Open May 1– October 1. Got the second to last site on a Wednesday in July (you can reserve sites after the campground opens on May 1)."
Wildlife awareness: The area is home to various wildlife including rattlesnakes. "Beware of rattlesnakes they are thick in this area," cautions a camper at Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing, while another notes the region has "big horn sheep, wildcats, rattle snakes, elk, and deer in the area although we didn't see any in our two days and nights at the park."
Tips for camping with families
City park campgrounds: Several towns offer camping near public parks with family amenities. At Bayard City Park, "The park has lush green grass, trees, small playground and pool. You can stay two nights for free, additional nights for a fee."
Playground access: Many campgrounds include play areas for children. A camper at West Wind - Lake Minatare SRA notes, "We arrived after 5pm so the office was closed, but we found the camp spot easily with the information from the booking email, and our site had our names on it which was great. Walking around the beach by the lake was so nice and we found a fun tire swing."
Educational opportunities: The region offers several nature centers with learning activities. "There is a huge nature center that will provide a great place to cool off, stay dry or just for learning for the sake of learning," reports a visitor to Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only options: Some campgrounds provide electric hookups without sewer connections. A visitor to Robidoux RV Park shares: "Reserved online E&W (no sewer) site 40 approx $50/night. Clean facilities, keyed entry, well manicured grassy sites concrete pads mostly level. Request for jackpad use when leveling."
Pull-through accessibility: Many sites accommodate larger rigs without disconnecting. "We had a pull through full hook up spot. It had a concrete pad with a patio and picnic table. All sites are 30 and 50 Amp and our pull through was long enough to stay connected," notes a camper at Robidoux RV Park.
Dump station locations: Plan your waste management with limited dump stations in the area. At Captain Critters Country Campground, a visitor reports that the "campground has 36 full hook up sites with more being made. We paid $35 for the night. The lanes are cutely named - Bunny Blvd, Critter Court, Deer Drive, Fox Fairway, and Gopher Gateway to name a few."
