Camping sites near McCook, Nebraska include both free city parks and fee-based state recreation areas across the southwestern region of the state. The area sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation in the Republican River Valley, experiencing hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. During spring and fall, nighttime temperatures can fall dramatically compared to daytime highs, requiring campers to pack accordingly.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Medicine Creek State Recreation Area, anglers can catch walleye, white bass, and catfish throughout the year. "The scenery is beautiful year round, wildlife is abundant and the park is so well kept and clean," notes one regular visitor who particularly appreciates the fishery management.
Disc golf course: Oberlin-Sappa State Park offers an unexpected amenity with its disc golf course set among the trees. "I didn't realize there was a frisbee golf course. Plenty of hiking, biking and horse riding trails," explains one visitor who discovered this activity option while passing through.
Wildlife observation: The McCook region supports diverse wildlife populations, especially near water. Cambridge City RV Park provides good birding opportunities, with one camper noting, "Beautiful quiet windbreak tree line beautiful skies beautiful sounds beautiful military memorial you got the train rolls through but this place is so beautiful that train don't even bother you."
What campers like
Free electric hookups: Karrer Park in McCook offers an unusual amenity that draws budget-conscious travelers. "Free city park stays for a few days. Water and electric. Dump in site," reports a satisfied camper who gave the location five stars. The park operates from April through October and enforces a strict 3-day maximum stay.
Clean facilities: Travelers consistently mention facility cleanliness at Shady Bay Campground within Medicine Creek SRA. "Full camper and 5th wheel hookups. Bathrooms with showers. Clean campground. Swim beach and boat dock nearby," notes a recent visitor who appreciated both the amenities and maintenance.
Shade coverage: During hot Nebraska summers, trees provide crucial relief. One camper at Cambridge City RV Park specifically appreciated this feature, commenting, "It is real sheltered with all the big trees," which helps mitigate temperatures that frequently climb above 90°F in summer months.
What you should know
Electrical access varies: Some campgrounds have inconsistent electrical service policies. At Oberlin-Sappa State Park, a camper reported challenges: "Not sure how you are suppose to access the electric boxes all had a lock tag on them. I was able to check which boxes were hot and found two boxes hot but was only able to use the 110 plug."
State park permits required: Nebraska state recreation areas require entry permits for all vehicles. Daily permits cost approximately $6 for Nebraska-plated vehicles and $8 for out-of-state vehicles, while annual permits cost around $30-40.
Limited water availability: Water access can be unreliable at some locations. At Oberlin-Sappa State Park, a visitor noted, "Did not find any potable water all faucets were marked as non potable," highlighting the importance of bringing water supplies when visiting certain campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for insects: Depending on the season, insects can impact comfort levels. One camper at Oberlin-Sappa State Park shared their experience: "The air was filled with tiny black flies (though harmless) but dozens and dozens got caught in my arm, head, and leg hairs, and it was quite frustrating."
Playground access: Several camping areas include play equipment for children. Karrer Park features playground equipment within the small city park, while one camper noted Oberlin-Sappa State Park offers "a playground, lots of open space. We were able to get our electric bikes out and explore."
Weekend planning essential: For family trips during peak season, timing matters. At Willow View Campground, visitors appreciate the "pet friendly" environment with "swings for kids," but securing spots requires planning since weekends fill quickly during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited spaces for larger rigs. While some areas can accommodate big rigs, most have fewer than 15 spaces total, with Karrer Park offering just 7 spaces and no reservations.
Donation-based options: Some RV parks operate on voluntary payment systems. According to a visitor, Cambridge City RV Park has "about 11 or 12 campsites here there's a dump station, water available and electric. It's free they suggest a donation."
Unmarked camping areas: Some camping locations have poorly defined sites. At Oberlin-Sappa, a camper reported, "The sites themselves are not marked or numbered, so you just pull into a grassy spot between the trees!" This informal arrangement can be confusing for first-time visitors unfamiliar with the layout.
