Dispersed camping near Holdrege, Nebraska consists primarily of small Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) positioned along the I-80 corridor. These sites sit within the Platte River Valley ecosystem, an area characterized by flat terrain with elevations around 2,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions with significant seasonal precipitation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The ponds at several WMAs provide fishing access for roadside campers. At Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area, visitors can fish directly from shore. "This is a general parking area for folks that want to fish, or use the beautiful, paved and lit hiking trail," notes Danny H.
Bird watching: Spring migration brings numerous bird species through the Platte River corridor. Wood River West State Wildlife Management Area offers bird watching opportunities from its small pond area. Mary noted "Highway noise might be an issue, but the privacy, birdsong, and pond make up for it."
Hiking access: Several sites connect to short trails through native grassland habitat. "Nice place spot for two weeks close to highway but overall not bad spot," writes Dennis N. about Blue Hole Wildlife Management Area, where short walking paths lead around the pond.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Despite highway proximity, many sites offer adequate spacing. At Coot Shallows WMA, Gabriel H. reports "It's a small park with a pond that you can fish at. We were the only campers in for the day and honestly probably wouldn't be great for tents. There are 3 pull outs that you can put in an RV or camper."
Convenience factor: Most dispersed sites sit within 1-2 miles of I-80 exits. "Free. No facilities. Flat, established, wide dirt road. Multiple pull offs for camping, mostly flat," writes Frana B. about Bassway Strip. "Great overnight spot! Such a nice surprise to come across this camping spot."
Moonlit scenery: Clear Nebraska skies provide excellent night viewing at several sites. Hillary J. commented about Wood River West: "We stopped here just to sleep when traveling across the country. It was easy to find and a relatively quiet spot. You could hear some road noise but I didn't find it too bad. Nice views in the full moon!"
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Ticks, possums, and other wildlife are common at sites near the Platte River. At Bassway Strip, Bohdan T. reports: "A fat possum waddled up to me when I was setting up my tent in the dark since I pulled up to this spot late at night. He didn't bother me when I was sleeping but gave me a good scare."
Security considerations: Remote locations occasionally attract suspicious activity. Melia S. warns about Blue Hole: "Around 4:30 AM a car pulled in quietly and parked right next to our van. The only reason we woke up was because our dog started barking and freaking out. A guy was outside smoking and putting some things in a bag. We started up the RV and dipped as fast as we could."
Local odors: Agricultural activities create noticeable smells at some campsites. "There is a pretty strong farm smell so just be prepared for that!" notes Hillary J. about camping at Wood River West.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose spots with clear boundaries and suitable terrain. Porter S. notes about Bassway Strip: "It was a great spot in a pinch with very few people there, but the mosquitos were bad, at least in late July. The interstate is right next to the area so it can be pretty loud with the semi's."
Insect protection: Bring sufficient repellent, especially during warmer months. Mary warns about Wood River West: "Tick central! Stay on the gravel, and check, check, check. Took a 50 foot walk on short grass and had at least 15 ticks. We have a monster long haired dog, and he's going to get a comb out before coming in camper."
Water supplies: No potable water exists at any sites. Pack 1-2 gallons per person per day, more during hot weather. "It wasn't nice but it was a place to sleep while in town for a class," reports John D. about Bassway Strip, highlighting the minimal amenities.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Several access roads have tight turns unsuitable for larger vehicles. Linda R. cautions about Wood River West: "This is NOT for rigs over 15' long. Turn around potential is tight. Lots of beer cans around. Got down there and turned around and went back to 80."
Leveling considerations: Gravel pullouts often feature slight slopes. Lindsey J. notes about Blue Hole: "There were two spots to park and a cul-de-sac at the end of the road. One of the spots was slanted and the other spot was flat, neither were good for large campers. You could park in the cul-de-sac but it is a smaller circle."
Road surface quality: Access varies seasonally, with some areas becoming difficult after rainfall. Scout G. describes Bassway Strip as a "Convenient gravel lot off 80. Good for pulling off into while on a road trip. There's a road sign that marks it. No facilities but less than 10 miles from the next rest stop."
