Equestrian camping options near Hastings, Nebraska include several state recreation areas within driving distance. The region features prairie landscape with rolling hills and seasonal weather that brings hot summers and cold winters. Camping facilities in this area of central Nebraska typically operate year-round, though primitive camping experiences vary significantly with seasonal conditions, particularly during spring migration season when the Platte River hosts thousands of sandhill cranes.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Mormon Island State Recreation Area offers good fishing opportunities at two ponds. "Good fishing. Two ponds. Right off I80," notes Jeff H., who gave the campground a 4-star rating.
Kayaking on calm waters: Several lakes provide opportunities for paddling. At Mormon Island State Recreation Area, Kenny M. reports, "Kayak and bank fishing, hiking and just relaxing in general. We stay in the area with no power, etc., but we were prepared."
Biking on regional trails: The area features extensive biking trails, including the nearly 50-mile Cerro Gordo County trail. At Fort Kearny State Recreation Area, campers can access bike rentals: "Bike rental is fun and the fishing was good as well," shares Brian H.
Wildlife viewing: Spring brings migration season to the Platte River. As one camper at Mormon Island notes, "Don't forget to visit sandhill cranes in March/April."
What campers like
Mature shade trees: Fort Kearny offers significant shade coverage. Susan L. mentions, "The area has beautiful, mature cottonwood trees. One of these was right at site 57 so there was lots of shade."
Lake access from campsites: Many sites offer direct water views or access. "My husband and I were able to get a primitive site right next to one of the lakes. Our site was secluded from the other campers," shares Jessica C. about her experience at Fort Kearny.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good standards for amenities. At Coot Shallows WMA, Gabriel H. notes it's "a small park with a pond that you can fish at," making it suitable for day use or overnight stays in self-contained units.
Level camping areas: Mormon Island provides well-maintained sites. "Spacious and well maintained campground... Our campsite loop bordered vegetation, was spacious between campsites, and fairly protected from Interstate noise," reports one camper.
What you should know
Interstate noise varies by location: Some campgrounds experience highway sounds. David R. explains that at Mormon Island, "This does cause an issue with the noise from I-80 just outside of the grounds, but the trees and a dirt berm help to keep that down to just a low drone."
Water access fluctuates seasonally: River and lake access changes throughout the year. "We did not use the bath house or showers so can't comment on those. 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," reports Maggie C. about Bruning Dam Recreation Area.
Early morning noise: Some locations experience early wake-up calls. "The only small problem is that at approximately 5am, I started hearing the air/fan boats from a local launch on the Platte River. I was wide awake and had actually already packed my Jeep by 630am," notes David R.
Stickers and burrs: Some grassy areas contain plant burrs. One Mormon Island camper reports, "We could not even let our dog out in our camp site because of an abundance of stickers and burrs! She at one point just laid down because of her paws filled with burrs and could not walk any more."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mormon Island provides recreational equipment for children. Shannon G. notes, "There is a playground for children, a fishing pier, biking, and nice trails to explore."
Swimming areas available: Designated swim zones exist at select locations. Rachel C. shares about Mormon Island: "The lake looks inviting and has a swim area as well as fishing. Well maintained and the camp host was friendly and helpful."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer and other wildlife frequent the camping areas. Jessica C. observed at Fort Kearny that "We even saw some deer in the field next to the campground."
Accessible fishing piers: Several lakes offer structures for easy fishing access. Tarrah C. explains that at Fort Kearny, "There are 7 sandpit lakes in the area that offer fishing. Lakes 5, 6 and 7 offer handicap accessible piers."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: Campgrounds offer varying levels of service. At Mormon Island, "There is a store right before the entrance in case you forgot anything or need to purchase firewood. There are 3 different areas for campers, a tent area, a Rv area, and an area for generator use," according to Shannon G.
Site grading considerations: Some RV sites require leveling. Michael B. notes that Fort Kearny is "Very inexpensive, convenient, nice place to stay for a layover. It's a first come basis with I believe 22 RV sites."
Dump stations available: Full-service options exist for longer stays. Susan L. observes about Fort Kearny, "Electric h/u, but no water. Need to fill up prior to camping."
Year-round accessibility: Most campgrounds remain open during winter with reduced services. One Mormon Island camper notes, "In March, the campground was still in WINTER season so only one bathroom location open and no showers open in winter, and limited water access points, but we had a electric hookup."
