Camping near Kearney, Nebraska typically peaks during spring and fall when temperatures range between 50-75°F, offering comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. The area sits at approximately 2,150 feet above sea level along the Platte River valley, where sandy soil provides natural drainage at most campsites. Several camping areas offer shoreline access to sandpit lakes formed by excavation for Interstate 80 construction.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At War Axe State Recreation Area, visitors can access a small lake with a dock for fishing. The area is "pretty much straight forward site. It has primitive site around a little lake. Obviously you can fish there, and there is an access point for a small boat, kayak, or canoe."
Biking trails: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers bicycle rentals for visitors wanting to explore the area. A camper noted, "we had a great time here. quite and peaceful. bike rental is fun and the fishing was good as well." Another mentioned, "There's a bike trail that goes to the Fort at the historical park."
Swimming options: Sandy Channel State Recreation Area has designated swimming areas during summer months. One visitor explained, "There is a small 'beach' area designated for swimming in one of the ponds. It is small." For families staying at Windmill State Recreation Area, "Lake 7 has the swimming beach."
Wildlife viewing: Blue Hole Wildlife Management Area provides opportunities to spot local wildlife along shorelines. Though primitive in nature, one camper mentioned it was "a nice, convenient, peaceful spot" for observing nature, though they recommend caution when camping overnight.
What campers like
Lake access: Campers at Sandy Channel State Recreation Area appreciate the proximity to water. One reviewer shared, "As you can see from the pictures, the spot is just a short walk from the small sand pit lake. Makes it ideal for early morning fishing and a quick kayak launch site." Another noted, "Lots of sites to choose from near the water."
Peaceful atmosphere: Despite being near Interstate 80, Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers quiet camping spots. A camper mentioned, "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 but it was a bit of a walk to the vault toilets. We even saw some deer in the field next to the campground."
Clean facilities: Kearney RV Park & Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. A reviewer highlighted, "Great wifi and the cleanest/nicest bathroom and shower area!" Another guest commented on the "big dog park area for the pups" and "storm shelters available in the bathhouse."
Free camping options: Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area provides no-cost camping near Kearney. A visitor explained, "Free. No facilities. Flat, established, wide dirt road. Multiple pull offs for camping, mostly flat." Though basic, these sites serve travelers well for short stops.
What you should know
Park permit requirements: Nebraska recreation areas require entrance permits not available on-site. A visitor to War Axe State Recreation Area warned: "One thing to be said for any recreation area in Nebraska is a friendly reminder that you will need an access pass to stay here or even visit. These cannot be obtained at the site and must be repurchased before visiting either online or at one of the main offices."
Highway noise levels: Most campsites near Kearney experience some interstate traffic noise. At Kearney RV Park & Campground, a camper advised: "Being right next to the highway very bad road noise. Had to turn the fan on high to drown it out." For light sleepers, sites furthest from I-80 are recommended.
Limited amenities: Many wildlife management areas offer minimal facilities. At Blue Hole Wildlife Management Area, a camper observed: "I did not see any toilets, picnic tables, or fire rings in the parking area, there was a boat launching spot and a small trail to lead to the lake."
Seasonal considerations: Water access points may close during winter months. Campgrounds like Windmill State Recreation Area remain open year-round, but with reduced services. A camper noted it's "Very easy access off I80 so it makes for a good stop for the night."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Windmill State Recreation Area offers multiple recreation options for children. One parent shared: "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."
Shade considerations: When camping during summer months, seek sites with established trees. At Fort Kearny State Recreation Area, one camper noted: "The area has beautiful, mature cottonwood trees. One of these was right at site 57 so there was lots of shade."
Water safety: Sandy Channel State Recreation Area has multiple ponds for swimming, but limited designated beach areas. A visitor recommended: "If you love fishing and floating around beautiful lakes, this is the spot for you. There is no modern amenities so you will have to rough it for a few days."
Playground access: Some recreation areas feature play equipment for children. A visitor to Windmill State Recreation Area mentioned: "They have a dump, clean bathrooms with hot showers (which super clean), a playground for the kids and a couple of walking/hiking trails nearby."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Kearney RV Park & Campground offers convenient sites for larger rigs. An RVer reported: "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."
Hookup availability: Fort Kearny offers various hookup options for RVs. A camper explained: "They go by Electric Plus, electric and basic. There are 7 sandpit lakes in the area that offer fishing. Lakes 5, 6 and 7 offer handicap accessible piers."
Overnight convenience: For travelers just passing through, Kearney RV Park provides efficient stopover options. One RVer noted: "It is a nice easy in and out campground that has great concrete pull through sites and it makes it easy to get in, go to sleep and wake up and head out."
RV size limitations: Some campsites have restrictions on vehicle length. A camper at Fort Kearny mentioned: "Site 57... wouldn't accommodate anything longer than 26'. It was also right next to site 58, so it would be great for 2 families looking to camp together, but otherwise, not so good."
