Merriman, Nebraska sits in the Nebraska Sandhills region, characterized by grass-stabilized sand dunes that create unique camping terrain. Elevations range between 3,000-4,000 feet across the area, with significant temperature fluctuations common throughout camping seasons. Most campgrounds near Merriman operate on a first-come, first-served basis except for specific reservable electric sites at Merritt Reservoir facilities.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: Powder Horn Area Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. "The night sky is the best reason to go here. It's one of the darkest places in the US," notes a camper at nearby Boardman Creek.
Fishing access: Multiple boat ramps provide lake entry points for anglers. "Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area has a boat ramp for lake access. Quiet area. No cell service," reports Bradley B. from Cottonwood/Steverson Wildlife Management Area.
Hiking trails: A one-mile loop trail at Steer Creek Campground offers walking opportunities through pine forest. "There are plenty of pull offs in the surrounding National Grassland if you want to explore, but wear long pants! Lots of prickly plants there," advises Katharine H.
What campers like
Ponderosa pine forest: The coniferous trees provide welcome shade and scenery. "Very beautifully nestled in the fragrant ponderosa trees," writes Frances about her experience at Steer Creek Campground.
Quiet, uncrowded atmosphere: Many campgrounds maintain low occupancy even during peak times. "We enjoyed one night here, while traveling through. Ended up having the whole campground to ourselves," shares one visitor about Steer Creek.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers diverse animal and bird watching opportunities. "Quiet with birds, frogs, turtles, and deer," reports one reviewer from Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area, while another notes "Great bird life here with views of Sandhills."
What you should know
Tick populations: Warm season visitors should prepare for significant tick activity. "We actually turned around after attempting to do the loop trail and literally being attacked by masses of ticks... So come prepared!" warns a Steer Creek visitor.
Weather preparedness: Temperatures fluctuate dramatically, requiring diverse clothing options. "When I left Kentucky it was in the 80's, my first night in the Valentine area it got down to 41 and didn't go above 55 for the entire time I was there... pack a variety of clothes because the locals said it can be in the 70's one day and snow the next," advises a reviewer from Powder Horn Area Campground.
Terrain challenges: Sandy conditions affect vehicle access to certain areas. "A 4 wheel drive might be needed for some of the areas. There is no forest in McKelvie, just a lot of prairie grass, sand and hills. Think of the desert with long grass on top," notes Shelly S. about Powder Horn.
Tips for camping with families
Long-term enjoyment: Some campgrounds maintain loyal visitors over generations. "We have camped here for years... it's a small campground but it has low traffic so makes for a nice place to go to and relax and do some fishing," shares C.A. about Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area.
Swimming areas: Lake access points provide recreational opportunities beyond fishing. At Cottonwood Lake, "Some locals came to swim. We were the only campers," notes one visitor, indicating family-friendly water access.
Primitive conditions: Prepare children for basic facilities with limited amenities. "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," explains Danielle L. about Steer Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV camping near Merriman, Nebraska requires careful consideration of site dimensions. "Great views and not too far off the main road. There aren't any sectioned campsites. More of just pull offs," explains Erik B. about Powder Horn.
Smaller vehicles preferred: Many campgrounds accommodate smaller recreational vehicles better than large rigs. "Tents and smaller rigs work best," notes a Steer Creek visitor, indicating size limitations at more primitive locations.
Self-sufficiency: Bring necessary supplies as services remain limited. "I did not see an employee my entire time in the area, bring cash to pay for your site. Valentine was about 30 minutes away with fuel, food and some entertainment," advises a visitor to Grand River Casino and Resort Campground.
