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.
