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Best Campgrounds near McCook, NE

48 Reviews

Camping options around McCook, Nebraska range from city-managed spaces to state recreation areas with varying amenities and access points. Karrer Park in McCook provides free electric hookups and basic facilities with a 3-day stay limit, while Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area offers more extensive camping with multiple areas including Willow View and North Lookout campgrounds. These established sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some areas providing full hookup options for larger recreational vehicles and others offering more primitive experiences.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with Karrer Park open from April to October and certain state recreation areas available year-round. "Super clean bathrooms, easy lake/reservoir access, nice fire pits and well-kept sites," noted one visitor about Willow View Campground. Weather can significantly impact camping experiences, with hot summers and potential for storms rolling across the plains. Campgrounds near water bodies like Red Willow Reservoir and Medicine Creek tend to fill quickly during summer weekends, while offering more solitude during weekdays and shoulder seasons. Nebraska requires park entry permits for state recreation areas, with camping fees typically ranging from $10-30 depending on amenity levels.

Campers report particularly positive experiences at Medicine Creek State Recreation Area, which one reviewer described as their "favorite place in Nebraska" with "beautiful scenery year-round, abundant wildlife, and well-kept, clean" facilities. The region's campgrounds generally feature a mix of shaded and open sites, with trees providing welcome relief during hot summer months. Water access represents a significant draw, with fishing opportunities available at most reservoir locations. Several campgrounds offer both primitive sites and developed areas with modern amenities like showers and electrical hookups. Cambridge City RV Park and Karrer Park provide convenient options for travelers passing through, while the state recreation areas offer more immersive natural settings for longer stays.

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Best Camping Sites Near McCook, Nebraska (36)

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Recent Reviews near McCook, NE

48 Reviews of 36 McCook Campgrounds

Guide to McCook

Camping near McCook, Nebraska, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to enjoy outdoor activities, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at places like Sheridan State Fishing Lake. One reviewer mentioned, "Free sites around the lake and ok fishing," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Hiking and Biking: Trails are available for hiking and biking, especially at Prairie Dog Campground — Prairie Dog State Park. A visitor shared, "This place has swimming, a small hike, your choice of camping location, a frisbee golf course and miles one could hike or bike."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A camper at Brady Wildlife Management Area noted, "Cows for neighbors, quiet, a little noise from the freeway, but not bad."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and sites. One review for Karrer Park stated, "Everything was well maintained and beautiful."
  • Free Camping Options: Many enjoy the free camping at places like Sheridan State Fishing Lake. A visitor remarked, "Nice spot, we went Labor Day weekend and there was still availability."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often mention the peacefulness of the sites. A review for Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area said, "Sites with either electric or not. The electric sites were fairly full... I went for the primitive."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Oberlin-Sappa State Park, have limited facilities. A camper noted, "Did not find any potable water; all faucets were marked as non-potable."
  • Unique Layouts: Campgrounds can be a bit quirky. One reviewer at Oberlin-Sappa State Park mentioned, "Following GPS directions led us into the park and to a locked gate."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Karrer Park is open from April to October.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds and Open Spaces: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Karrer Park. A visitor mentioned, "Frisbee golf, playground, lots of open space."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or outdoor games to keep kids entertained. One family at Prairie Dog Campground — Prairie Dog State Park enjoyed, "We were able to get our electric bikes out and explore."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Karrer Park noted, "A little far to walk back to town for dinner."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Electric Hookups: Make sure to verify that electric hookups work before settling in. One RV traveler at Karrer Park humorously said, "Make sure you check to make sure your site works before you get all set up like me."
  • Space for Big Rigs: Some campgrounds are more accommodating for larger RVs. A review for Blue Heron Campground mentioned, "There are 40 RV/Trailer sites that vary from pull thru to back in."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds, like Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area, can have road noise. A visitor advised, "My advice park closer to the lake, less road noise."

Camping near McCook, Nebraska, has its quirks and charms. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near McCook, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near McCook, NE is Karrer Park with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

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