Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest provides extensive equestrian camping near Merriman, Nebraska, situated within the unique Nebraska Sandhills ecosystem. The forest encompasses over 115,000 acres of mixed prairie grasslands and pine forest terrain with elevations ranging from 2,900 to 3,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-90s with winter lows often dropping below zero, making spring and fall particularly popular for horse camping.
What to do
Trail riding in Sandhills terrain: The rolling grassland landscape offers excellent opportunities for self-guided rides through diverse ecosystems. As one visitor notes, "While it's technically National Forest land, most is Sandhills prairie which is awesome for off-trail hiking and exploring" according to Katharine H. who visited Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest.
Wildlife viewing with horses: Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper mentioned, "the close sites were nice and had a ton of animals nearby. Aside from the animals, it was quiet and pretty" according to Sierra W. who camped at Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest.
Pine forest exploration: The ponderosa pine sections offer shaded riding alternatives during hot weather. A camper described the environment as "Very beautifully nestled in the fragrant ponderosa trees" according to Frances who visited Steer Creek Campground.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: The region offers genuine solitude for equestrian campers willing to venture away from established areas. One regular visitor states, "I live in Lincoln, NE and make an annual (sometimes bi-annual) trek out here to decompress and soak-up the awe-inspiring rolling hills and scenery" as noted by Jared J. about Steer Creek Campground.
Fresh water access: Natural water sources are available for both horses and riders. A camper highlighted, "There are two vault toilets, a centrally located water pump (fresh, cold Sandhills groundwater!), and a dumpster" according to Katharine H. who stayed at Steer Creek Campground.
Natural camping ambiance: The combination of prairie and forest creates distinct camping environments. A visitor shared, "There are lots of shady sites, almost all the trees are pines and there's lots of downed, dry wood for campfires. There are two vault toilets, a centrally located water pump, and a dumpster."
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Horse owners should apply appropriate tick repellent to themselves and their animals before riding. One camper warns, "MILLIONS of ticks! We actually turned around after attempting to do the loop trail and literally being attacked by masses of ticks... So come prepared!"
Vehicle access limitations: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. A visitor cautions, "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" according to Absolutley N. who camped at Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest.
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings muddy conditions while summer heat can be intense for both horses and riders. A regular visitor notes, "We are near the North American Pole of Inaccessibility, making this one of the most remote regions of the continent... but you'll still get cell service!"
Tips for camping with families
Primitive accommodations planning: Families should prepare for basic facilities at most sites. A camper advises, "If you love more primitive sites this may be for you. No hookups. Tents and smaller rigs work best. Tucked away back in the pines with a 1 mile walking/hiking trail" according to Danielle L. who stayed at Steer Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Arrange dawn or dusk riding sessions for optimal wildlife encounters. A camper mentioned, "We heard coyotes both nights. 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)."
Campground selection for families: Some locations offer more amenities than others. A visitor noted, "It never filled up, though other people were always there (maybe 1/2-2/3 capacity). No extra/second vehicle fee. There are lots of shady sites, almost all the trees are pines."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility for horse trailers: Many areas have limited turning radius for larger rigs with horse trailers. A visitor explained, "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!"
Setup considerations: Prepare portable corrals and proper anchoring systems for sandy soil conditions. An experienced local advised, "We have great grassland and there are beautiful canyons, and some of the features of the badlands show up in this area" according to Terry from Woodland Ranch.
Water management: Bring sufficient water for both human and equine needs at dispersed sites. A camper noted, "A little confusing finding camp grounds because it seems some are dispersed. However, the close sites were nice and had a ton of animals nearby."
