Tent campsites near Hubbard, Nebraska require modest expectations and self-sufficiency. Most sites are within a 45-minute drive of Hubbard, primarily in rural Iowa and Nebraska counties where amenities are minimal. Camping areas typically close between October and April due to inclement weather, though select locations remain open year-round with reduced maintenance during winter months.
What to do
River access activities: Stieneke Area Park provides river entry points for paddling adventures. A recent visitor noted, "There's a river behind and the sign says you can launch a kayak." This small county park costs $10 per night with rangers typically collecting fees from the lockbox in the afternoon.
Hiking in Loess Hills: Preparation Canyon State Park Campground offers unique terrain exploration opportunities. A camper described it as "the quintessential example of the diversity that Iowa has to offer," adding that "if you have not visited this area, put it high on your to-do list." The park features nearly 8 miles of beginner to intermediate level trails with overlook points.
Fishing access: Pelican Point State Rec Area provides boat launch facilities to the Missouri River. While camping facilities are minimal, the location serves primarily as access for anglers. According to a visitor, "This campground is conveniently located at a boat ramp. It has 2 primitive campsites and a vault toilet."
What campers like
Seclusion and quiet: Most camping areas near Hubbard remain uncrowded, especially on weekdays. At Stieneke Area Park, one camper reported, "It's about a half mile from a well traveled road, but as I write this it's 7 in the evening and there's no more traffic. I'm the only person in the campground."
Affordable rates: Ranney Knob Area camping costs $10 per night with payment collected on-site. A visitor mentioned, "Says you can pay to camp but no designated camp sites and limited parking. Does offer access for canoe/kayaking on the river."
Sunset viewing: Several campgrounds offer elevated positions for evening sky watching. At Preparation Canyon, a camper recommended, "Site 3, which seems to be the crown jewel. It is a small trek up a hillside and looks out across the general area, with a phenomenal star gazing opportunity."
What you should know
Limited water sources: Most campgrounds lack reliable drinking water. At Stieneke Area Park, one camper warned about the hand pump well: "Give it a dozen pumps to get it going. I don't suppose it is potable water." Plan to bring sufficient water supplies for your stay.
Site conditions vary: Many campgrounds have irregular maintenance schedules. At Hildreth Lighthouse Campground, a visitor described it as a "flat piece of grass to place two tents for only $20 bucks," but cautioned about bathroom conditions, quoting their son who "saw the mens room and so used the women's."
Primitive facilities: Expect basic accommodations throughout the region. At Pelican Point, a camper observed, "The path to the campsites was in rough shape, but the grass on the campsites appeared recently mowed." Most locations have vault toilets without shower facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Consider access difficulty: Some sites require significant hiking to reach. A Preparation Canyon visitor advised, "I chose the closest walk-in spot, less than a mile in. It was great! Near a little creek if you need water, and really nicely secluded."
Pack accordingly: Limited amenities mean bringing all essentials. Small county parks like Stieneke Area Park offer "small park, peaceful, river access for canoe/kayak. No designated camp sites but plenty of space for tent or camper."
Know exact locations: Several camping areas have minimal signage. A Hildreth Lighthouse camper mentioned, "Would have been nice if the pay station had more directions," adding that "two miles of dirt road was less than fun." Print directions beforehand as cell service can be unreliable.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most camping areas near Hubbard are not designed for larger recreational vehicles. At Ranney Knob, a visitor noted the park has "some picnic tables, a toilet, and a trash can. Says you can pay to camp but no designated camp sites and limited parking."
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites often include unpaved sections. A camper at Hildreth Lighthouse Campground warned about "two miles of dirt road" that complicated arrivals, particularly for larger vehicles or during wet conditions.
