The Lewellen area sits in Nebraska's sandhills region at approximately 3,422 feet elevation, where camping options benefit from relatively mild summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F. Camping conditions vary significantly between seasons, with summer bringing peak visitation to nearby Lake McConaughy and winter offering solitude but limited services. Most campgrounds near Lewellen remain open year-round, though winter campers should confirm availability before arrival.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake McConaughy offers varied fishing experiences with shoreline access at Cedar View Campground. "There is good trout fishing here and excellent bird watching. We saw the Long-billed Curlew, Burrowing Owl, and several other birds checked off our bucket list," notes a camper. The lake supports multiple fish species including walleye, white bass, and catfish.
Historical exploration: Visit Ash Hollow State Historical Park just across the river from Lewellen. "Our family camped here this summer. The more I was here the more I liked it. It is Shaded, quite, and although it's 20 min from Lake McConahay, it also happens to be just across the river from Ash Hollow. Which we learned was the most talked about spot by settlers on the Oregon Trail in their diaries," shares a camper at Oregon Trail RV Campground.
Birdwatching excursions: The Nebraska sandhills region hosts diverse bird species. Head north from Lewellen toward Crescent Lake to spot burrowing owls and long-billed curlews. "If you are a bird watcher, head north to crescent lake and see the burrowing owls, long billied curlew, or a vast amount of other birds," recommends a visitor to Cedar View Campground.
What campers like
Beach access: Lake McConaughy's white sand beaches set it apart from typical Nebraska lakes. "Though most lakes in Nebraska are man-made and muddy, this manmade lake is in the sandhills so it is all beach and clear water," explains a camper at Cedar View Campground. The beaches stretch for miles along the lake's southern shore, offering ample space even during busy summer weekends.
Privacy options: Several campgrounds provide sites with natural separation. "We pulled up to this campground hoping for a walk up site, as we didn't have a reservation. We were able to find a primitive spot near some beautiful cedar and cotton trees that even had a walking path to the beach and water," reports a Cedar View visitor. Sites furthest from main access points typically offer more seclusion.
Unique wildlife viewing: The area hosts prairie species not commonly seen elsewhere. A camper at Oregon Trail RV Campground noted: "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!" Wildlife sightings often include deer, rabbits, and various bird species.
What you should know
Off-season advantages: Visiting outside summer months provides a different experience. "We stayed preseason and had our pick of the sites. Many are 90°, tight back ins. Camphost chuck was very helpful," shares a camper at Cedar View Campground. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and significantly reduced crowds.
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience rail traffic. "The bathrooms and showers were not the newest or cleanest and there is a train track with trains that went through throughout the day and night. Otherwise, beautiful campground and it wasn't very busy during the week," notes a Cedar View Campground visitor. Campgrounds further from railway lines provide quieter experiences.
Seasonal wind patterns: The region experiences significant winds, particularly in transitional seasons. A camper at Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground reported: "Stayed here on my cross country drive. Real calm at dusk on this reservoir, it picked up real fast into a certified windstorm by 2AM when I felt like my tent was about to be blown away into oblivion." Secure tent stakes and RV awnings accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several rv parks near Lewellen provide dedicated play areas. "Bathhouse was clean and well kept, the quiet hours are kept well, and the host is great- brought suckers and popsicles for our kids!" shares a family at Cedar View Campground. Lake McConaughy facilities include multiple playground options spread throughout its camping areas.
Swimming conditions: Lake McConaughy offers swimming, but conditions vary. "Well maintained, easy access to restrooms and trash. Really close between campsites, pretty loud and really crowded but as to be expected being a June weekend," notes a Cedar View visitor. Morning swims typically have calmer water conditions before afternoon winds develop.
Educational opportunities: The area provides historical learning experiences. A camper at Oregon Trail RV Campground explains: "We spent several days learning about the history, walking part of the Oregon trail, and even Learned that the Mormon Trail came through this camp site. All in all I was so glad we stoped here. We came for the Lake but found So Much More." Ash Hollow State Historical Park offers ranger programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Cell coverage details: Connectivity varies significantly by carrier. "Also both Verizon and AT&T service here was very good," reports a camper at Oregon Trail RV Campground. AT&T coverage diminishes in remote areas, while Verizon maintains better rural connectivity throughout the region.
Site selection strategy: Specific site knowledge improves camping experiences. "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," advises an RVer at Oregon Trail RV Campground. Calling ahead to discuss site requirements with campground hosts yields better placement.
Early arrival benefits: Securing preferred sites requires timing. "Big rig friendly, but arrive around 3pm since the place fills up fast later in the day," suggests a camper at Cabela's RV Park & Campground. Most rv parks near Lewellen, Nebraska operate on first-come, first-served basis for non-reservable sites, making early afternoon arrival advantageous.
