Several RV parks serve the Hastings area within a 40-mile radius. Located in south-central Nebraska at an elevation of 1,932 feet, the region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters that drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area offer concrete pads that provide level camping even during the region's occasional heavy rainfall periods.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area has seven sandpit lakes with fishing opportunities. A reviewer noted, "Lakes 5, 6 and 7 offer handicap accessible piers" and "There's a bike trail that goes to the Fort at the historical park."
Biking trails: Kearney RV Park & Campground connects to local bike paths. One camper shared, "It is right on a bike/walking path that goes into the city and to the archway that is super convenient."
Paddle boating: Prairie Oasis Campground & Cabins offers free paddle boats on their pond. A visitor mentioned, "There was even free paddle boats to use for the pond. We also played horseshoes. They also had many other Yard Games to play, a Sand Volleyball Pit, a Sand Box with toys, and a swing set."
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness at area campgrounds. At Fort Kearny State Recreation Area, a reviewer appreciated the "clean bathrooms with hot showers(which super clean)," noting it was "Very inexpensive, convenient, nice place to stay for a layover."
Concrete pads: Level parking areas are highlighted by multiple reviewers. At Kearney RV Park & Campground, a camper shared, "We rolled in and didn't even need to unhook. Level site, quiet (except for the interstate), easy breezy check in, clean, and easy out."
Pond access: Multiple campsites feature ponds for recreation. A camper at Prairie Oasis Campground noted, "We came to just get out for the first time this year because of Covid-19. We requested a site closest to the pond because I just love to look at the water and wildlife."
What You Should Know
Highway noise: Several RV parks near Hastings, Nebraska are close to Interstate 80, creating noticeable road noise. A camper at Firefly Meadows noted it was "Off of I80, however not nosy, cornfield on the other sides."
Storm shelter access: During Nebraska's severe weather season, storm shelter access is important. At Kearney RV Park & Campground, a reviewer mentioned, "There are storm shelters available in the bathhouse."
Gate closures: Some parks have limited after-hours access. Fort Kearny State Recreation Area requires a daily vehicle park permit, with a reviewer noting, "A daily vehicle park permit is required and when this is added in to the cost, it's a bit pricey for what it is."
Tips for Camping with Families
Frog hunting: Wood River Motel & RV Park and other area campgrounds have ponds where children enjoy catching frogs. A Prairie Oasis camper shared, "Had a great time frog hunting and boy were they big."
Swimming options: Some campgrounds have designated swimming areas. A Fort Kearny State Recreation Area reviewer pointed out, "Lake 7 has the swimming beach."
Playground access: Several campgrounds have play areas for children. One reviewer at Wood River Motel & RV Park mentioned, "Nice small campground. Only 30 or so spots. Small playground for kids. Fishing hole."
Tips from RVers
After-hours arrival: Many RV parks near Hastings have self-check-in options. A Kearney RV Park visitor noted, "We arrived late and they had a map and packet ready for us inside the lobby. Great wifi and the cleanest/ nicest bathroom and shower area!"
Site selection: For RVers wanting more privacy, specific site recommendations can help. At Firefly Meadows, a camper shared, "My campsite has a tree on each side. Even though not very big sites, it is shaded, level, concrete, water, electric."
Winter camping: Some RV parks remain open year-round with limited services. Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers year-round camping with electric hookups, though a reviewer mentioned the winter rate "drops to $10 basically in October for a few months, which includes a small fire pit, table, and electric!"
