Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers recreational camping with electric and primitive tent sites six miles off Interstate 80. The area includes seven sandpit lakes for fishing and a bike trail that connects to the historical fort. Most campsites feature spacious gravel pads with mature cottonwood trees providing shade. While horse camping options are limited near Kearney, Nebraska, several campgrounds accommodate vehicles that could transport horses, though specific equestrian facilities are rarely advertised.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area provides fishing opportunities across several small lakes. "There are 7 sandpit lakes in the area that offer fishing. Lakes 5, 6 and 7 offer handicap accessible piers," notes Susan L. in her Fort Kearny State Recreation Area review.
Biking on local trails: Rent bikes to explore the recreation area and connecting trails. "The bike trail that goes to the Fort at the historical park" offers a unique opportunity to combine recreation with historical education according to Susan L. Another visitor mentioned, "Hosts were very nice and even have bikes for the kids."
Pond fishing for families: Coot Shallows WMA provides a simple fishing spot west of Kearney. As Gabriel H. describes in his Coot Shallows review: "It's a small park with a pond that you can fish at. We were the only campers in for the day."
Water recreation: Mormon Island State Recreation Area includes swimming options during warmer months. "The lake looks inviting and has a swim area as well as fishing," reports Rachel C., highlighting the diversity of water activities available for visitors seeking equestrian camping alternatives near Kearney.
What campers like
Privacy and natural surroundings: Some sites at Fort Kearny offer more seclusion than others. Jessica C. shared her experience at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area: "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: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained amenities. Michael B. noted, "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."
Value pricing: Some campgrounds offer affordable rates compared to other options. Michael B. commented on Fort Kearny's pricing: "Believe the cost was only $15 on our summer early September rate and drops to $10 basically in October for a few months, which includes a small fire pi, tabke, and electric!"
Off-season opportunities: Several campgrounds remain accessible year-round. According to Tarrah C., "You can camp there off season. Some of the site are on the river."
What you should know
Additional permit costs: Some recreation areas require daily vehicle permits beyond camping fees. At Mormon Island State Recreation Area, David R. advises: "The site, and amenities, are very nice. The campsite itself is very well maintained and level." However, another reviewer cautions that "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."
Seasonal restrictions: During winter months, facilities may be limited. One Mormon Island visitor explains: "In March, the campground was still in WINTER season so only one bathroom location open and no showers open in winter, and limited water access points, but we had a electric hookup."
Highway noise: Campgrounds near Interstate 80 experience traffic sounds. David R. mentions about Mormon Island: "This does cause an issue with the noise from I-80 just outside of the grounds, but the trees and a dirt berm help to keep that down to just a low drone."
Weather preparedness: The area can experience severe storms with little warning. One camper recounted experiencing "85 to 90 mile an hour winds with hail" while staying at Mormon Island.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and bike options: Fort Kearny offers recreational equipment for children. One reviewer notes: "Hosts were very nice and even have bikes for the kids."
Swimming areas for hot days: Designated swimming zones provide safe water recreation. At Mormon Island State Recreation Area, Rachel C. observed: "The lake looks inviting and has a swim area as well as fishing."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camping sites can offer nature observation chances. Jessica C. from Fort Kearny mentioned: "We even saw some deer in the field next to the campground."
Accessible fishing piers: Several lakes accommodate anglers of all abilities. Susan L. points out: "Lakes 5, 6 and 7 offer handicap accessible piers."
Insect protection: Ticks can be prevalent in grassy areas. Shannon G. warns: "Just beware of deer ticks. Spray,Spray,Spray..my husband left with 32 visitors that needed to be pulled out."
Tips from RVers
Spacious sites with shade: At Fort Kearny, larger vehicles can find accommodating spots. Susan L. reports: "The area has beautiful, mature cottonwood trees. One of these was right at site 57 so there was lots of shade."
Site selection based on stay duration: For overnight stays, certain campgrounds offer better convenience. Gabriel H. noted about Camp Arrowhead: "Nice spot and water access. Great showers and fire pits. Small and private."
Water access planning: Not all sites offer water hookups. Susan L. advises about Fort Kearny: "Electric h/u, but no water. Need to fill up prior to camping."
Site leveling considerations: Some spots may require adjustment. Susan L. mentioned: "The site wasn't level due to erosion, which was pretty significant."
Pay shower preparation: Bring quarters for shower facilities. David R. shares: "This was my first encounter with the pay showers though, and I had to scrounge around for quarters to feed into it."
