The landscape surrounding Loup City, Nebraska sits at approximately 2,060 feet elevation in the Loup River valley, characterized by rolling plains and sandpit lakes formed by river deposits. Summer temperatures range from 55°F at night to above 90°F during daytime, while spring and fall bring milder weather with occasional thunderstorms. The camping season typically extends from April through October with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Sherman Reservoir State Rec Area Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities across its expansive reservoir. As one visitor noted, "This is primarily a reservoir and wildlife management area. Finding a camping spot with access to the lake is difficult. After driving around the lake, we found one, and it was an amazing spot! Clean outhouses."
Disc golf course: Ravenna Lake State Recreation Area features a disc golf course near the camping area. A camper mentioned, "The Disc Golf course looked inviting, but the mosquitoes were horrendous and the Toilet disgusting." Despite the bathroom concerns, the course provides an active recreation option for campers.
Biking on local trails: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers bike rentals and trail access. A visitor shared, "We had a great time here. Quite and peaceful. Bike rental is fun and the fishing was good as well." The recreation area connects to a trail network leading to the historical fort site.
Kayaking and boating: Trade Winds campground provides marina access and boat rentals for water recreation. According to a camper, "There is a nice marina for food, bait, supplies. And it has a grill open on weekends. The Marina also has kayak, boat slip, and storage for rent."
What campers like
Quiet camping spots: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment at North Loup State Rec Area, with one visitor noting it's a "Small park with about 15 tent sites with fire pits and picnic tables. Outhouse facilities with no access to fresh water. There is no playground equipment. Access to 2 fishing ponds and a short hike to access river."
Access to water recreation: Sherman Reservoir State Rec Area Campground attracts visitors seeking water activities. One camper reported simply, "Loving this place" after experiencing the reservoir firsthand.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Mormon Island State Recreation Area Campground offers diverse wildlife habitat. A visitor commented, "There is a playground for children, a fishing pier, biking, and nice trails to explore. This is a nice area with lots to explore including the Platte River. Just beware of deer ticks. Spray, Spray, Spray... my husband left with 32 visitors that needed to be pulled out."
Trees and shade: Several campgrounds provide mature trees for shade. A visitor to Mormon Island noted, "Great one night spot. Easy access to the Interstate so there was noise but it still was a great site because of the breeze, shade and variety of trees."
What you should know
Nebraska park permits required: Most state recreation areas require entrance permits purchased in advance. Campers should obtain these before arrival as they cannot be purchased on-site at most locations.
Limited facilities at some locations: Basic campgrounds have minimal amenities. At North Loup State Rec Area, expect "Smaller park with about 15 tent sites with fire pits and picnic tables. Outhouse facilities with no access to fresh water."
Seasonal operation: Grand Island KOA operates seasonally from "April 1 to October 13," which aligns with many camping spots near Loup City, Nebraska. Other recreation areas have varying seasonal availability.
Weather considerations: Summer storms can impact camping experiences. One camper at Mormon Island described experiencing "one of the worst storms! 85 to 90 mile an hour winds with hail!" Weather monitoring is advisable during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Mormon Island State Recreation Area includes family-friendly amenities. A visitor mentioned, "There is a playground for children, a fishing pier, biking, and nice trails to explore."
Consider cabin options: Trade Winds offers alternatives to tent camping. According to a review, "It has 12 cabins and 20 Rv/tent sites with electricity and shared water. The sites are very close together but have shade trees."
Budget for shower costs: Many campgrounds charge for shower use. At Fort Kearny, "Showers need to be fed quarters. 7 minutes for $1.50 if memory serves me right."
Be prepared for insects: Mosquitoes are common near water. A camper at North Loup reported, "Small park with no extras...no running water, no playground equipment, no electricity. The grounds were kept up nicely and there is an outhouse for use. The mosquitos were terrible."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Sherman Reservoir provides electric service for RVs. Sites vary in size and accessibility, so arrive early for better selection.
Spacing between sites: Space can be limited at some campgrounds. A visitor to Grand Island KOA noted, "Great campground other that you are on top of your neighbors. Thought we might not be able to open our awning, only about 3 to 4 feet between sites."
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain. A camper at Sherman Reservoir mentioned, "The site wasn't level due to erosion, which was pretty significant."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations. Sherman Reservoir provides this service, while smaller recreation areas typically do not. Check availability before planning longer stays.
