Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
$100 / night
The Red Cloud Campground is located one mile south of Chadron State Park on the west side of Highway 385. Situated in the middle of the Pine Ridge area, the campground has 13 sites with picnic tables, parking pads, pedestal grills, fire rings, and a vault toilet.
Access the nearby Pine Ridge Trail system via Outrider and Strong Canyon trailheads. The Pine Ridge trail passes through a wide variety of landscapes ranging from grassland, ponderosa pine forest, creek bottoms, canyons and open ridges with views of the nearby buttes. Motorized trails can also be accessed nearby at Strong Canyon trailhead, Spotted Tail trailhead, and the Cliffs trailhead.
$10 / night
Located on the beautiful Oglala National Grassland in northwestern Nebraska, Toadstool Geologic Park is a stark, other-worldly landscape unlike any place in Nebraska. Its name was inspired by the narrow clay pedestals topped with slabs of sandstone that resemble toadstool mushrooms. It is one of the most memorable places in the grassland with its unique layers, formations, and scientifically valuable fossil deposits. Toadstool is a key link in understanding the earth's history from 38 to 24 million years ago. Formed by mostly volcanic ash and alluvial river deposits, geologists consider it the "type section for the White River Geologic Group", meaning that all other similar-aged deposits in North America are compared to the geological standard designated at Toadstool. The campground consists of twelve campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, upright grills, and two accessible vault toilets. There is no water. Special features: In 1984 the Forest Service constructed a sod house in the campground near the site of a sod house built in 1929. The new "soddie" provides a look into the past when homesteaders on the grasslands used the only abundant material available. The original sod house was lived in briefly before being abandoned and signs of the original structure no longer exist.
The trailhead at the campground provides access to three hiking trails each with varying degrees of difficulty. A one mile interpretive loop highlights many examples of eroded clay/sandstone formations. While on the trail, follow our brochure to learn the fascinating geology of the area. The Bison Trail leaves the interpretive loop at the half way point and continues up the canyon to the Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center. Toadstool Campground to Hudson Meng is 3 miles one way. __A five mile loop begins at the campground and proceeds on the graveled section of the interpretive trail for a short distance before heading north through the badlands and grasslands on the Great Plains Trail. After 1.5 miles the Great Plains Trail intersects with the 918 Road. Follow the signs to return to the Bison Trail and Toadstool Campground. The loop can be done in reverse going the other direction on the interpretive trail as you leave the campground. The Great Plains Trail, developed by the Great Plains Trail Alliance, is a cross country network of public land trails and roads beginning in Guadalupe National Park and ending at the Canadian border. The Bison Trail, 918 Road, and part of the 5 mile loop are part of this network. Information on the Great Plains Trail can be found at www.greatplainstrail.org\_
Hudson Meng Education and Research Center Located on the beautiful Oglala National Grassland in northwestern Nebraska, the Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center houses one of the most important paleo-archeological discoveries in North America. Visitors can tour the bonebed enclosure and discover the mysterious past of the Bison antiquus (extinct bison) that died here. A rancher first brought attention to the bonebed in 1954. This started an ongoing quest to discover what caused the death of so many bison. Archeologists continue to research the exact nature of past events and the role ancient Paleo-Indian people may have played in them. While theories are plentiful, there is still no clear answer to the mystery. The Hudson-Meng Education and Research Centers Bison Bonebed Tour encourages visitors to develop their own ideas based on the evidence presented. The Bison Trail connects the Hudson-Meng visitor center to Toadstool Geologic Park. This is an unforgettable three-mile (one way) hike across the Oglala Grassland. Toadstool Geologic Park is well-known for its unusual rock formations and fossils. The natural history dates as far back as 30 million years ago. The site is located in the shadow of Nebraska's picturesque Pine Ridge, overlooking the Oglala and Buffalo Gap National Grasslands and north to the Black Hills of South Dakota. If you make a discovery on a national grassland or national forest, make sure of its location and report it right away to the nearest Forest Service office. https://youtu.be/wM7gKaUP2dw
$15 / night
Roberts Tract Campground and Trailhead provides three camp sites with tables and fire rings, an eight-paddock corral system, rider ramp and stock water. The parking area has one site with a table and fire ring for those with horse trailers or campers. Stock water is available, weather permitting. Certified weed-free hay is required.
Roberts Loop Trail (2.5 miles) begins at the campground and provides access to the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area and Pine Ridge Trail.
For facility specific information, please call (308) 432-0300.
$15 / night
Box Butte Reservoir SRA encompasses 2,212 acres on the west edge of the Sandhills, 9 miles north of Hemingford. It includes a 1,600-acre lake. The area is a good spot for fishing, camping and picnicking and also features some of the best birdwatching opportunities in the Nebraska panhandle.
Box Butte offers campers Electric Plus, Electric, and Basic camping. There are 14 camping pads with 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups. The park also offers 40 non-pad Basic campsites without electricity.
Other camping amenities include drinking water and primitive restrooms.
Camping is all first-come, first-served and campers register their nightly camping fees in a raised, locked box called an Iron Ranger. Self-service envelopes are provided at each Iron Ranger station. Check or cash only. Iron Rangers are generally located near the park entrance or in the campground area. On-site camping informational signs are provided to help guide campers with the self-registration process.
$10 - $30 / night
There are two distinct areas of the Nebraska National Forest. This area encompasses the west end of the Nebraska National Forest near Chadron and Crawford and is managed by the Pine Ridge Ranger District. The other distinct area within Nebraska National Forest is located near Halsey in central Nebraska. Special places within the Chadron area include Soldier Creek Wilderness and the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area as well as several developed recreation sites for camping, picnicking, or trailheads for access to miles of trails into the wide open spaces of the Nebraska National Forest. Pine Ridge National Recreation Area is a 6,600-acre area is designed to provide a primitive/semi-primitive recreational opportunity in a natural environment and is managed for non-motorized recreation. Approximately 80 miles of marked trails make up the Pine Ridge Trail system. The easy-to-follow trails accommodate hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. Soldier Creek Wilderness Area offers a well-developed trail system of 17 miles in and adjacent to the Wilderness which allows hikers and horseback riders a variety of trial loop choices. Overnight camping in developed sites is on a first-come, first-served basis. Campfires are allowed unless restrictions are posted. Backcountry or primitive camping (no facilities) is allowed anywhere on the National Forest. Practicing Leave No Trace principles ensures that the next person to visit will have the same sense of discovery as those who came before.
ScoutMaintained dirt road half mile. , trash available, no toilet 🚽, not crowded
morning doves. Geese swawks in distance, cattle across road. one big fly. night critters: mice, skunk, mole.
Guide
Like James reported, there are two very close sites with a third for handicapped. Quiet little town. My neighbor and I enjoyed a conversation.
Guide
Any vegans might find this place too much. We may have hit it at the wrong time if the week. But the hundred thousand cattle across the tracks sounding like constant swarming bees might be too much for some. Or maybe imagine you are 5kms from a f1 gp track. Did I mention the trains?
Legend
Was not interested in staying one night at Chadron State Park. Nice state park, but the campground was a little too crowded for my liking. It was also expensive. Stayed at Red Cloud Campground instead. Glad we did. As stated in previous reviews, this campground is clean and well maintained. I wouldn't recommend amy rig larger than a truck camper. Concrete picnic table, grill, metal fire ring, almost level gravel parking spot. Partial shade. In pine forest. Gravel campground road, ends in small loop. Sites not quite level but most not bad. Tent camping posible. Dirt & grass sites; mowed. Some are large, some with some privacy. Single vault toilet, clean with tp. Campground is in the woods next to US Hwy 385. Noisy, especially with truck traffic. Noise decreased about 10pm. Otherwise, really nice campground. Would recommend for overnight stay. AT&T data service good; bad T-Mobile service.
Guide
Supposed to be good birding here but nothing special. Reservoir was low but ppl fishing, tubing and having fun. Some sites close together along reservoir. We camped near tent sites at far end of campground in cottonwoods. No neighbors so peaceful. Clean pit toilets and water. Campground lights drowned out the stars :(
Guide
Google maps will lead you right to the area. It's next to a busy road. Nebraska 20, Bridges to Buttes Byway. Enough parking for several rigs if parked close. I was the only rig there on a Thursday. It's only a few miles from a Super Walmart and a Safeway, in Chadron.
GuideWell kept small campground. Clean pit toilets, no water. Beautiful trees and great birds! We were the only ones there mid July, mid week. Good for a one night stay away from the hubbub of Chadron SP. Only downside is the noise from the road.
Ranger
This is a full hookup (electric/water/sewer) campground, appears to be recently updated. Concrete pad, fairly level. Picnic table and grill in each site. Few trees, mixture of shade and non shade sites. Decent amount of space between sites. Bathrooms and showers are available near the partial hookup campground. Good Verizon cell coverage. Campground is on site of old Fort Robinson. The old barracks and post buildings are available to reserve and stay in. This area is prime for equestrians with many trails to explore on horseback. Numerous trails aren’t quite as friendly for hiking on foot because of tall grass. There are a couple of scenic roads (1 unpaved/washboardy; 1 paved on canyon road) to drive and see local landscape. On site attractions: History museum, restaurant serving breakfast/lunch/dinner, indoor swimming pool, horse stables, general store, small library. Historical markers paying homage to Levi Robinson (the fort’s namesake) and the site on which Crazy Horse was killed.
Guide
Wow! The beauty! We stayed here midweek in June - the place was empty. There are at least 40 sites, including 2 group sites, & equestrian sites a little further down the road. The rest of the sites are pull-in & pull-through sites. All the sites have a fire ring & picnic table. There are 2 outhouses, 1 large trash collection, & a group “day use” area with a beach & swimming! I cannot recommend this spot enough, & at $11/night!? What a steal! You can pay at the pay station upon arrival.
RangerChose to stay two nights here to allow us to visit Agate Fossil Beds National Monument and Fort Robinson.
Sites are basically two parking stalls on a concrete pad. The only way to fit two RVs at a time would be if they were both vans, and that would be tight.
We were the only people staying, so we could put out our slides and camp in comfort.
Have 30 and 50 amp hookups, along with water.
Parked is very nicely kept and amazingly quiet at night. There are two bathrooms right next to the camp site.
Stay is donation based with deposit right next to camp sites.
Guide
We were worried about this place due to reviews but at the end we’re glad we went as we needed only an overnight stay. It’s easy to find the road that leads to the area but not so much to find the spot to feel comfortable to park with a trailer (albeit very small). As mentioned, spots that seemed suitable have signs stating “not for motorized vehicles”. However those are placed when there is another road leading to views. We used the following spot 42.70534° N, 103.03435° W. It was ok -not much privacy as cars are passing by to the end of the path to watch sunset, walk the dogs or exercise. However the views from this area are simply phenomenal!
RangerStopped on the way back through Nebraska.
Sites were $20 for 50amp service with water.
There is a dump site located near the sites, which you have to drive into the grass to use.
There is a feed lot or hub for cattle across the creek. When we were there, it was loud with the sound of a bunch of cows.
Had difficulty finding a view of the sky for Starlink due to trees.
Good Verizon signal so no problem.
Scout
6 miles west of Fort Robinson on Soldier Creek Rd. First come first serve, $15 per night and only 6 spots available if I remember.
This area is used frequently by those riding horseback as there is a horse corral next to a couple of the campsites to the south.
If you like to hike and fish there I'd a trail that goes west from the campsites 1.3 miles to 3 ponds filled with brown trout.
GuideSmall, peaceful camping spot. Great birds! Gravel road in is in good shape (about 5 miles). Just before the final climb to the campground there is a creek that needs to be crossed. It is paved but heavy rains might make it difficult. Just before the creek crossing on the east side of the road there is a camping/picnic area that is a possible location.
Once you enter the park there are 2 sites in a large grassy area to the right with picnic tables, fire pits and garbage (recycling too!). We stayed in #1 and it was very pleasant with a beautiful view of the surrounding area. Turn left at the T following the horse/motor home signs. There are 3 more sites here. Pump water and very clean pit toilets here. This is the horse area. There is another site down the road to the right with table, fire pit and pit toilet.
Guide
Beautiful scenery but no shade. Luckily it was not so hot that day. Very nice place for one or two days, it’s also not overcrowded.
RangerSites are spread out and also have great "lawns". Fairly new, so facilities are in great shape. If lake is really low, it would not be as inviting, but on this trip I only had to walk 50' to the water. 2 cubicles with shower and toilet, plus vault toilets. Much less densely packed than angostura rec area campgrounds.
Guide
Pros
-Wifi
-Sewer hookups
-Water
-Pull through sites
-Nice owner
Cons
-Unlevel sites
My friends and I stayed here for a night as we were headed out towards Yellowstone. The owner was great and one of the employees helped make an extra accommodation for us since all of the spots were full. We stayed in June of 2023 and as of that time they were still in the process of hooking electricity up to about 20 or so new sites. He mentioned putting a stage in as well for entertainment. I think this is going to be a great place to stay once he has everything completed.
Scout
We were here April 10, and we were the only campers in our part of the loop. Some roadway noise but nothing bothersome. Just a vault toilet near us, but very clean, and a short walk to the flush facilities. Plus a soda vending machine.
GuideCute, quiet we campground with a few powered spots and primitive spots. We chose the primitive spot (figured it was just the grass). Fresh water abalone from a spigot.
Trains are a bit noisy but that’s it.
5 ton weight limit on bridge to get in!!
GuideNice campground. NE SP requires a pass for each motorized vehicle. In state is $6 per day or $30 annual. Out of state is $12 per day or $60 annual. $30 per day plus cost of pass.
GuideClean campground, 4 sites with electricity and water ($20). Many sites without electricity ($10). The noise is from the 4-BNSF trains per hour coming from/going to the Wyoming coal fields.
Guideone of the most spectacular campgrounds i’ve ever seen. SUPER FREAKIN WINDY. legit do not even try if you have a tent you will not stay on the ground. still, awesome place only $15 a night w bathrooms, shade shelter, grills, n tables
Guide
Stayed here and June with family and then came back in July as a Camp Host. Electric sites only, however water and dump stations are available on your way in. We stayed in Cascade which is full on the weekends. Great access to the lake, beautiful views of the sunset. Clean showers and sights. There are a lot of bugs, so be prepared. Would definitely stay here again.
Scout
Fort Robinson State Park is an activity packed park in Northwestern Nebraska, with some interesting history. BUT, know that the price listed for camping does not include taxes & fees (~$2/day), nor cost of Park daily entry permit ($12/day). Still a good deal, but be ready when you check in. There are tons of hiking trails in the park, from “easy” up to “”hard”. There are also jeep tours, short and long horseback trail rides, stagecoach rides, chuckwagon meals, breakfast or dinner among the nearby buttes, an indoor swimming pool, and the “Trailside Museum”, each for a fee. The on-site restaurant has a small menu, but there’s definitely something for everyone, and the portions are LARGE! Campsites are well-spaced and generally level. Bathrooms & pay showers are clean and well maintained. Showers use quarters, change machine takes $1 & $5; $1.50 for 4-1/2 minutes. A little bit of road noise (trucks engine braking) from adjacent US Rte 20. Could not find an on-property guest laundry. Would stay here again.
GuideSheps Canyon rec area primitive camping on the Angostura Reservoir. This are used to be free , but is now $11/ night and has 40 sites fc/fs. Half back up to the water about 75 ft away down an embankment. Dump and fill down the road at the reservation camp ground
GuideThis park is wonderful. Every spot has some shade, and the grounds are well kept. The bathrooms and showers are super clean and well stocked. I’ve never explored this part of Nebraska before, and it exceeded all expectations.
TravelerThe lake is great for boats if you prefer to bring one. Only issue that I may have is if you get a tent site make sure that your tent will fit. We have a rather large tent and there are a couple of spots that it will not fit. Hosts are pretty nice. I love that the marina isn’t to far from the tent sites and they do have lots of trees to help keep your tent well shaded during the heat of the day.
Camping near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands offers a unique experience filled with beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands?
According to TheDyrt.com, Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands offers a wide range of camping options, with 35 campgrounds and RV parks near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is Chadron State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 17 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands.
What parks are near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands that allow camping, notably Wind Cave National Park and Badlands National Park.
Keep Exploring
