Grand Island, Nebraska sits at 1,860 feet elevation along the Platte River Valley, with primarily flat terrain surrounded by agricultural fields. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall bring milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms. The camping season at most established campgrounds runs from April through mid-October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Fishing without a license: At Kearney RV Park & Campground, visitors can fish in the stocked pond without needing a fishing permit. "There is a stocked pond you can fish without a license. It is catch and release only," notes Karl W.
Biking on connected trails: Access to city trails makes exploring easy. "It is right on a bike/walking path that goes into the city and to the archway that is super convenient," shares Karl W. about Kearney RV Park. The campground offers bike rentals for those without their own equipment.
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, Fort Kearny State Recreation Area remains open year-round. "We only stayed one night. Got in late and left early. Was very peaceful, quiet, lots of sites. I think it was in September. Would stay again!!!" writes Brad C.
What campers like
Accessible fishing piers: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers fishing opportunities across seven sandpit lakes. "Lakes 5, 6 and 7 offer handicap accessible piers. Lake 7 has the swimming beach. I was camped backed up to Lake 4 at site 57," explains Susan L.
Clean shower facilities: War Axe State Rec Area surprises visitors with modern restroom amenities despite its primitive camping setup. "The surprising thing was they did have restrooms with running water, and flushing toilets," Tony B. notes about this highway-adjacent option.
Storm shelters for safety: Nebraska's weather can change quickly, making safety features important. "There are storm shelters available in the bathhouse," Maggie C. points out about Kearney RV Park. This provides peace of mind during severe weather season.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds in the area sit close to Interstate 80, creating noise challenges. "Being right next to the highway, very bad road noise. Had to turn the fan on high to drown it out," Melanie T. shares about her stay at Kearney RV Park.
Park entrance fees: Be prepared for additional costs beyond camping fees at state recreation areas. "I do think this campground is a little pricey for what you get - in addition to the camping fee ($25 for elec only) there is a $14/day fee to drive into the recreation area," explains Maggie C. about Fort Kearny State Recreation Area.
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others place campers close together. "Great campground other than you are on top of your neighbors. Thought we might not be able to open our awning, only about 3 to 4 feet between sites," notes Mary T. about her Grand Island KOA experience.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy the natural encounters at local campgrounds. "We had a great time here. Quiet and peaceful. Bike rental is fun and the fishing was good as well," Brian H. comments about Fort Kearny State Recreation Area. Another visitor, Jessica C., mentions, "We even saw some deer in the field next to the campground."
Playground access: Edgar City Camp Facility offers basic amenities for families seeking glamping close to Grand Island, Nebraska. "For tent campers South Park is a great little spot. Shelter and power," notes Michael P., though he cautions about limited facilities.
Toad catching activity: Simple nature activities can keep children entertained. "There is lots to keep kids busy... our 3 year old spent most of the evening catching toads," Jared C. shares about his family's experience at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Level concrete pads: Grand Island KOA provides easy setup for overnight stays. "We ended up choosing this spot as I'm assuming we're 'off season' as many other surrounding places were closed to camping this time of year," reports Stephanie B. about her experience, noting the bathrooms were "clean and warm."
After-hours check-in: Many campgrounds in the area accommodate late arrivals. "We got in after hours and their process was super easy, and the directions were simple to follow," Edward K. explains about Kearney RV Park's convenient system for late-arriving guests.
Hookup availability: War Axe State Recreation Area offers basic primitive camping without electrical hookups. "This park is pretty much straight forward site. It has primitive site around a little lake," Tony B. explains. For RVers needing full hookups, Kearney RV Park provides "large concrete pads with full hook ups," according to Edward K.
