Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area along the Missouri River serves as the primary location for primitive camping near Hubbard, Nebraska. The area provides basic facilities including vault toilets and trash receptacles but lacks drinking water. Campers must navigate gravel roads to access the site, which can accommodate a limited number of vehicles. Wiseman Wildlife Management Area offers an alternative but with fewer amenities.
What to do
River recreation: Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area features a boat ramp for launching watercraft onto the Missouri River. "I tow a 20ft trailer Next to Vermilliom river. 1 picnic table, pit toilet, boat ramp," notes Travis A. about the Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area.
Wildlife observation: The management areas prioritize habitat conservation, creating opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching in natural riverine environments. Seasonal migration patterns affect wildlife presence throughout the year.
Overnight stays: The area accommodates self-sufficient camping for those prepared for minimal facilities. "Nice spot to overnight for a day or two. Not a very large spot but enough room for 6 or 7 rigs," reports a camper about their experience at Mulberry Bend.
What campers like
River proximity: The location directly on the Missouri River provides waterfront camping with natural views. "Great views and breeze of the Missouri River," mentions Jessica K. about her stay at Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area.
Convenience to supplies: Despite the rural setting, basic supplies remain accessible. "Walmart is 5.3 miles away," notes Travis A., making this dispersed camping area near Hubbard practical for restocking necessities.
Spacious area: The management area provides adequate room for multiple vehicles without feeling crowded. "It's such a big place and a lot of places to park," explains Rick M. about the camping area, contradicting concerns about limited space.
What you should know
Inconsistent status reports: Visitor experiences vary regarding accessibility and official designation. "I almost skipped this spot because people were complaining about it being roped off or closed, or it didn't look safe or whatever, and it couldn't be farther from the truth," reports Rick M. about Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area.
Limited signage: The area lacks clear indicators regarding permitted activities. "No signs about camping or not," notes Jessica K., creating uncertainty about official camping designation.
Water procurement: No potable water exists on site, requiring campers to bring their own supply or treat river water. "If you can do water procurement, there's the Missouri River," mentions one camper, though proper filtration equipment would be necessary.
Waste management: While trash receptacles exist, no dump stations for RV waste are available. "I don't see a grey dump though," notes Rick M., requiring self-contained waste management for overnight stays.
Tips for camping with families
Toilet facilities: Basic sanitation exists but with limitations. "I see a vault toilet but didn't try it," reports Jessica K. about Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area, suggesting families should bring additional sanitation supplies.
Day use options: The picnic facilities provide family-friendly areas for meals during day trips. "1 picnic table, pit toilet, boat ramp. Easy to get to," notes Travis A. about the area amenities.
Weather preparation: The riverfront location creates variable conditions requiring appropriate clothing and shelter. "Great views and breeze of the Missouri River," mentions Jessica K., indicating wind exposure that families should prepare for.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: The access roads require careful navigation but remain passable for various vehicle sizes. "Well maintained gravel road," reports Travis A. about Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area, though larger rigs should proceed with caution.
Site capacity: The area accommodates multiple vehicles but with space limitations. "Not a very large spot but enough room for 6 or 7 rigs," notes a camper about Mulberry Bend.
Larger vehicle accessibility: Despite concerns about access, larger vehicles can navigate the area with proper planning. "No problem at all getting my bus in here," reports Rick M., contradicting concerns about size restrictions for self-contained camping near Hubbard.
