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Best Campgrounds near Merriman, NE

39 Reviews

Merriman, Nebraska provides several camping options within the Nebraska Sandhills region, with both established campgrounds and primitive sites. Cottonwood Lake State Recreation Area offers tent and RV camping with basic amenities including vault toilets and drinking water. Merriman City Park provides an alternative camping location within the town limits. The surrounding public lands include more rustic options, with Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest located within driving distance for dispersed camping opportunities.

Road conditions and seasonal factors significantly impact camping experiences in this region. Many campgrounds maintain primitive facilities with vault toilets being the most common amenity. Water access varies considerably between locations. "We have camped here for years...it's a small camp ground but it has low traffic so makes for a nice place to go to and relax and do some fishing," noted one visitor about Cottonwood Lake. The area experiences typical Nebraska Sandhills weather patterns with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall bring milder temperatures but can include significant weather variations. Cell service may be limited at more remote sites, particularly in the McKelvie National Forest areas.

Campers frequently mention the quiet nature of campgrounds in this region. Several visitors highlighted fishing opportunities at Cottonwood Lake as a primary draw. Wildlife viewing represents another common activity, with bird watching specifically mentioned in reviews. The surrounding Sandhills landscape provides a distinctive camping backdrop not found elsewhere in Nebraska. Sites near water tend to receive higher ratings, though visitors noted varying quality of amenities. One camper described Cottonwood Lake as having "nice camping choices, peaceful and clean. Great bird life here with views of Sandhills." The presence of biting insects during summer months was noted in some reviews. Many campgrounds in the area remain uncrowded compared to more popular destinations in the region, making them suitable for campers seeking solitude.

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Best Camping Sites Near Merriman, Nebraska (25)

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Recent Camping Photos near Merriman, NE

7 Photos of 25 Merriman Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Merriman, NE

39 Reviews of 25 Merriman Campgrounds

  • Scott B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2025

    Merriman City Park

    Merry in Merriman

    A local shop owner told us to stay here when we were bicycling through on the TABR. Better than the vaulted toilets at the state park and no cost. They want people to use it. Shower, toilet, playground, picnic pavilion.

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2025

    Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area

    Nice little lake, buggy

    Lake was nice little size. We felt the CG was way over priced for amenities offered. Out of state cost $14 each day just to be at park. Then $15 to camp. Sections A & C were to have vault toilet and water nearby. Area C did not have a water. Some locals came to swim. We were the only campers so it was quiet with birds, frogs, turtles, and deer. Just some biting flies and over priced.

  • laura S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 14, 2024

    Little White River Reservoir

    Convenient to refuge, a bit worn out

    Pulled in at dusk, had the place to ourselves. Absolutely beautiful. Only one site in the campground had a bit of level ground. Pit toilets pretty clean, though one had a door that wouldn’t close. Someone pulled in late and started a long process of what looked like processing a goose - a bit unnerving. woke to hunters on the dam. probably wouldn’t stay here again. a couple of sites further down the road. this place is probably thick with mosquitos in the warmer months

  • E
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Powder Horn Area Campground

    Beautiful Sandy Lake

    Great views and not too far off the main road. There aren’t any sectioned campsites. More of just pull offs. But it is free so it’s nice. You get a beautiful view and nice sand.

  • Absolutley N.
    Jul. 7, 2023

    Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest

    MUST HAVE 4WD For this site!

    We went WELL off the beaten path. Not far into the national forest, Google maps showed a road leading to a river. The "road" is a grass trail. Not very hard, but definitely want a vehicle that isn't low to the ground to avoid bottoming out. Went about 3-5 mph for maybe 10 minuts, didn't make it to the river but found a beautiful succeeded spit by a pond. Not something I would swim in but my dog had a blast, and the views were beautiful. No fire, no water, no amenities at all. Just good Ole country camping!

  • Dwayne and Heather W.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 29, 2023

    Pine Campground - Merritt Reservoir

    Great view, but that’s where it ends

    Camp site was very spacious. Great views of the lake. Unfortunately, there is poison ivy everywhere you step. No way to get down the 20 foot cliff to the waters edge. Had to drive clear around the lake to find a single spot to fish. Even then not a single bite. Nice modern bathrooms, but only bathroom’s are located in the electric camp sites. Had to drive a bit to find a bathroom if needed. Coin operated showers (who Carrie’s quarters anymore?). Be prepared as the hot water doesn’t work, and you get a nice “refreshing” ice shower. Would probably be a really nice spot, if you had a camper and a boat, and didn’t mind being eyeball to eyeball with everyone else….

  • Jackie F.
    Aug. 21, 2022

    Grand River Casino and Resort Campground

    Not popular, not by choice

    This isn’t a very busy campground. It’s far south of Badlands NP and most people stay North in Wall or out near Rapid City.

    We’re not sure about boondocking in the regular parking lot since the casino has their own campground here. There’s not much shade but it’s right on the water which delivers nice views.

    All sites are electric only but there is a dump station where you can dump and fill.

  • Shannon G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2022

    Merritt Reservoir Main Area Campground

    Large lake, great fishing

    This lake is awesome for water sports since it is so large. It’s about 26 miles from Valentine. There are numerous campgrounds scattered offering different views of the beautiful valley

Guide to Merriman

Camping near Merriman, Nebraska, offers a unique experience surrounded by nature and the beauty of the Sandhills. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: The area has beautiful trails for hiking. One camper mentioned, "There are plenty of pull-offs in the surrounding National Grassland if you want to explore (highly recommend, but wear long pants! Lots of prickly plants there)" at Steer Creek Campground.
  • Fishing and Water Sports: At Merritt Reservoir State Rec Area, visitors enjoy fishing and water sports. One review noted, "This lake is awesome for water sports since it is so large."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot wildlife. A visitor at Merritt Reservoir State Rec Area shared, "I heard coyotes and it was pitch black at night, had the sky been clear the stars would have been amazing."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Many campers appreciate the stunning landscapes. One happy camper at Steer Creek Campground said, "Very beautifully nestled in the fragrant ponderosa trees."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. A visitor at Merritt Reservoir State Rec Area mentioned, "Overall a fantastic spot for a weekend in the quiet heart of Nebraska."
  • Clean Facilities: Cleanliness is a big plus. A reviewer at Fishberry Campground noted, "The bathrooms and showers were neat and tidy."

What you should know:

  • Ticks: Be prepared for ticks, especially at Steer Creek Campground. One camper warned, "Only downside: MILLIONS of ticks! We actually turned around after attempting to do the loop trail and literally being attacked by masses of ticks."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Steer Creek Campground, have limited amenities. A visitor mentioned, "If you love more primitive sites this may be for you. No hookups."
  • Seasonal Access: Check the season for each campground. For example, Cedar Pass Campground is open from April 15 to October 15.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with playgrounds and open spaces. A camper at Valentine City Park mentioned, "Disk golf park, and also with playground equipment."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities. One family at Merritt Reservoir State Rec Area enjoyed family time, saying, "Well we come back year after year to this campground to enjoy family, friends, food and the lake."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A camper at Fishberry Campground noted, "Only $15/person for tent camping on a great lawn was a plus."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to check for electric hookups. A reviewer at Badlands Hotel & Campground mentioned, "Hookups are a little wonky."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds can be dusty. A camper at Fishberry Campground noted, "Some highway noise but tolerable."
  • Use Reservations: If possible, make reservations ahead of time. A visitor at Cedar Pass Campground said, "We did not have reservations but were able to get a spot around midmorning on a Saturday late Sept."

Camping near Merriman, Nebraska, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With beautiful campgrounds like Steer Creek Campground and Merritt Reservoir State Rec Area, there's something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Merriman, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, Merriman, NE offers a wide range of camping options, with 25 campgrounds and RV parks near Merriman, NE and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Merriman, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Merriman, NE is Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area with a 3.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Merriman, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Merriman, NE.

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