Dispersed camping near Merriman, Nebraska offers primitive sites across the Sandhills region where water management areas and reservoirs provide opportunities for solitude. The area sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation with dramatic temperature swings between seasons. Winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing temperatures, while summer brings hot days and cool nights.
What to do
Fishing access: Little White River Reservoir provides boat ramp access for anglers seeking various fish species. As one camper notes, "Pulled in at dusk, had the place to ourselves. Absolutely beautiful." However, be aware that hunters may frequent the area during hunting seasons.
Wildlife observation: Cottonwood/Steverson Wildlife Management Area offers quiet surroundings for nature watching. A visitor mentioned, "Has a boat ramp for lake access. Quiet area. No cell service." The management area serves as habitat for native Nebraska wildlife.
Seasonal hunting: During appropriate seasons, hunting is permitted at designated wildlife management areas near Merriman. Some campers note hunting activity, with one mentioning, "woke to hunters on the dam" at Little White River Reservoir.
What campers like
Remote location: The primitive camping near Merriman attracts those seeking solitude. Campers frequently mention having entire areas to themselves, especially during weekdays or shoulder seasons.
Night skies: With minimal light pollution, the area provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. The distance from urban centers creates ideal conditions for astronomical observation.
Lake views: Little White River Reservoir offers waterfront camping with panoramic views. One camper described arriving to find it "Absolutely beautiful," though noting that "Only one site in the campground had a bit of level ground."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas near Merriman lack amenities. At Little White River Reservoir, "Pit toilets pretty clean, though one had a door that wouldn't close." Bring all necessary supplies.
Cell coverage gaps: Expect limited or no cellular service at many sites. One camper specifically noted about Cottonwood/Steverson: "No cell service."
Seasonal concerns: Summer brings insects to water-adjacent sites. A camper warned that Little White River Reservoir is "probably thick with mosquitos in the warmer months."
Site conditions: Finding level ground can be challenging at some locations. One camper mentioned at Little White River Reservoir that "Only one site in the campground had a bit of level ground."
Tips for camping with families
Safety awareness: Wildlife management areas permit hunting during designated seasons. A camper at Little White River Reservoir mentioned, "Someone pulled in late and started a long process of what looked like processing a goose - a bit unnerving." Consider camping outside hunting seasons when with children.
Water activities: Lakes provide recreation opportunities but lack lifeguards or designated swimming areas. Always supervise children near water.
Educational opportunities: The Sandhills ecosystem offers unique learning experiences about prairie ecosystems, water conservation, and wildlife habitat.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Big rigs should research access roads before arrival. While Cottonwood/Steverson Wildlife Management Area is marked as big-rig friendly, many primitive sites have limited turnaround space.
Level parking: Bring leveling blocks as campsites rarely offer perfectly flat parking. A camper at Little White River Reservoir noted, "Only one site in the campground had a bit of level ground."
Self-sufficiency: With no hookups available at primitive camping near Merriman, RVers must be entirely self-contained with sufficient water, power, and waste capacity for their stay.
