The Lewellen area lies in the Nebraska panhandle at approximately 3,300 feet elevation, where the North Platte River feeds into Lake McConaughy. This region features a semi-arid climate with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-95°F. Camping spots near Lewellen, Nebraska offer unique access to both sandhills terrain and water recreation, with significant temperature shifts between day and night that campers should prepare for.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Ogallala provides excellent trout fishing opportunities with less crowding than the main reservoir. A camper at Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground noted, "Clean restrooms with showers. Well wooded and below the dam so there is not much wind."
Historic exploration: Visit nearby Ash Hollow State Historical Park to learn about Oregon Trail history. "We spent several days learning about the history, walking part of the Organ trail, and even Learned that the Mormon Trail came through this camp site. We came for the Lake but found So Much More," shared a visitor at Oregon Trail RV Campground.
Birdwatching excursions: The Lewellen region is home to unique bird species rarely found elsewhere. "We saw the Long-billed Curlew, Burrowing Owl, and several other birds checked off our bucket list," mentioned a camper at Cedar View Campground.
What campers like
Quiet alternatives: When Lake McConaughy gets crowded, smaller campgrounds in Lewellen provide peaceful alternatives. A guest at Oregon Trail RV Campground commented, "This park was exactly what we needed—easy to find, impeccably maintained, and truly welcoming to both us and our pets. The RV spaces were clean and spacious."
Diverse camping terrain: Campgrounds in the area offer everything from grassy sites to lakefront options. "This is a little RV park with a view of hay bales. Large cottonwood trees for shade and plenty of room for the dogs to run!" noted a camper about Oregon Trail RV Campground.
Cellular connectivity: Unlike some remote camping areas, Lewellen campsites typically have good service coverage. One camper shared, "Also both Verizon and AT&T service here was very good," which is helpful for those needing to stay connected while camping near Lewellen.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds in the region experience regular train traffic. A visitor at Cedar View Campground mentioned, "There is a train track with trains that went through throughout the day and night."
Seasonal bathroom access: Some facilities may have limited access during certain periods. A camper noted, "Campground had bathrooms/showers available, but unable to use it because you needed a code to get into it and no code was given to us."
Grass burrs: Many camping areas contain painful stickers that can cause problems for pets and bare feet. "I can't recommend this campground if you are traveling with kids, dogs or anyone with feet. Our dogs were miserable," warned one camper at Cedar View Campground.
Shower tokens: At multiple lake recreation areas, showers require payment. "The showers are pay, 2 tokens for $1.00 and each token lasts 2 minutes," explained a visitor at Lone Eagle Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Lone Eagle Campground, a camper mentioned, "There is a playground for kids. All outer loop sites face the water."
Off-season visits: For families seeking quieter experiences, consider camping outside peak summer months. "It was really early in the season, mid April, and too cold (snow) for most, so the campground was empty," shared a visitor at Lone Eagle Campground.
Beach exploration: Children often enjoy discovering the small wildlife along the lakeshore. A camper at Sandy Beach Campground observed, "At night little frogs like to reveal themselves from the sand. Dog loved it. Kids loved it."
Water access considerations: For families planning water activities, campground proximity to shore varies significantly. "We had a view of the lake but because of the water being low, it is about 1 or 2 city block distance to the water," noted a camper at Lone Eagle Campground.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup sharing: At some campgrounds, water connections serve multiple sites. "Take note. Water is shared and not at every site. Bring several hoses as it's 40 - 50 feet away," advised an RVer at Lone Eagle Campground.
Sewer hose positioning: Hookup placement may require special arrangements. A camper at McGreer Camper Park explained, "Since the sewer is on the north side of each site, you may have to run your hose under the camper or use the sewer hookup in the lot next to you, if no one is parked there."
Low water pressure: Water systems at some campgrounds may not meet typical RV needs. A visitor mentioned, "The water pressure was so low that our water pump came on constantly when we used the water, even though we did not have a neighbor hooked up to our spigot."
Local towing awareness: For those considering beach camping with RVs, know your options. "If you drive the wrong way you will get stuck taking an RV down and you can pay for a bulldozer to pull it in if you need it," cautioned a Sandy Beach Campground visitor.
