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Best Dispersed Camping near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

6 Reviews

The elevated terrain of Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands makes for some good dispersed camping options throughout the area. If you're heading to Pine Ridge Dispersed Camping near Chadron State Park, you'll find dirt roads that most cars can handle, though a few camping spots need careful driving to reach. There are no bathrooms or water sources at these sites, so you'll need to bring everything with you and take all trash when you leave. Remember to camp at least 300 feet from roads and water, and know that you can stay up to 14 days in one spot. Higher clearance vehicles definitely help for getting to the more out-of-the-way areas. Always check if fire bans are active before planning to have a campfire. The Bordeaux Wildlife Management Area gives you another choice for dispersed camping - it sits close to a main road, making it easy to run into town for ice or food when needed. While you won't find any facilities at these sites, the lack of crowds and great sunset views across the Nebraska plains make up for the basic conditions.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

11 Photos of 5 Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

6 Reviews of 5 Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Campgrounds

  • Marc G.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 19, 2020

    Pine Ridge Dispersed Camping

    Gorgeous northwest Nebraska boondocking with a view

    We're in the midst of a week in our 26' travel trailer along this beautiful 1.5 mile-long dirt Forest Service road 714-A, directly above Chadron State Park. We're guessing that most folks who stay in the State Park campground below are unaware that dispersed camping is indeed permitted within 300 feet of the center line of this road, for even though the popular State Park campground remains closed for another day due to a delayed COVID-19 opening, and is booked solid thereafter, there's absolutely no one else camping up here!

    You actually have to drive through the State Park to access FR-714-A, and the park does not lock their gate overnight so access remains unrestricted. The road is in excellent shape and negotiable by any trailer or motorhome, but is only a single lane wide. We're 700 feet of elevation above the plains below, with stunning views stretching off to the horizon. Much of this area has burned in the past, but the area where we're camping is lush and grassy with some stately pines around. This isn't the Nebraska that you know!

    Cell service on Verizon is a solid 3+ bars - 54ms ping, 13.6 Mbps down, 3.5 Mbps up. The Verizon tower is visible about 5 miles to the south of our campsite.

    There are numerous hiking trails that depart from either end of FR-714-A, including some in the State Park. Fresh water, an RV dump and a camp store are all located within the park, along with an archery range, sledding hill, fishing pond, playgrounds, picnic areas and more.

    One star is deducted only because:

    • There are only a couple of sites that would work with a vehicle, for there's a well-hidden drainage ditch dug on each side of the road; and
    • There's a bit of daytime traffic due to people accessing the hiking trailhead at the end of the road. Vehicles are forced to camp right along the road, as any side spurs visible on satellite imagery have been marked "No motor vehicles" by the Forest Service. For tent campers, though, it's a short walk right to the rim of Pine Ridge for even more spectacular views.

    The phone number provided is for the Nebraska National Forest Pine Hill Ranger District in Chadron, in whose jurisdiction this road resides.

  • David M.
    Sep. 21, 2020

    Pine Ridge Dispersed Camping

    Not Really Dispersed Camping

    This land had a cattle lease in September 2020 and all that entails. There is one turnout an RV could utilize. Any other type of camping wouldn't be good. There is a trailhead and turn around at end of one lane road.

  • Travis A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Bordeaux Wildlife Management Area

    Great for overnight parking

    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.

  • Mona M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 18, 2025

    Bordeaux Wildlife Management Area

    It Will Do

    The day I pulled in was 79° but there was a winter weather alert for the next day. Perfect place to ride out a snow storm coming through. Nothing fancy, the parking lot is uneven and would hold maybe 4-5 vans. But it worked for what I needed at the moment. Good Verizon cell signal.

  • Truly W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2025

    Limestone Butte Resevoir Dispersed

    Beautiful location, check weather!

    This spot is absolutely gorgeous. There is only 1 spot available from what I could see, and the road is a 2-track where I’d probably recommend medium clearance.

  • Wild Berries B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 2, 2024

    Pine Ridge Dispersed Camping

    Good for overnight with phenomenal views

    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!

Guide to Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different camping styles, from tent camping to RV setups.

Stunning Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking vistas at Pine Ridge Dispersed Camping, where the elevated terrain provides panoramic views that are perfect for sunset watching.
  • The area is accessible via a well-maintained dirt road, making it suitable for various vehicles, though some spots may require careful navigation.
  • Enjoy the tranquility of nature while being just a short drive from Chadron, allowing for easy access to supplies and amenities.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

  • When visiting Bordeaux Wildlife Management Area, be prepared for a location adjacent to a busy road, which can provide convenience for quick access to nearby towns.
  • Arrive early to secure a good parking spot, as this area can accommodate several rigs, especially during weekdays when it tends to be less crowded.
  • Keep in mind that this area does not require a permit, making it an excellent choice for spontaneous camping trips.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

  • Take advantage of the hiking trails accessible from Pine Ridge Dispersed Camping, where you can explore the stunning landscapes and enjoy the local flora and fauna.
  • For those looking to fish or engage in other recreational activities, the nearby Chadron State Park offers a variety of amenities, including a fishing pond and picnic areas.
  • Don't miss the chance to explore the scenic routes and enjoy the unique geological features of the area, which are particularly striking after recent wildfires have rejuvenated the landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best dispersed camping locations in Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands?

Pine Ridge Dispersed Camping offers beautiful sites along Forest Service road 714-A, directly above Chadron State Park. The 1.5-mile dirt road provides several spots for RVs and trailers, though availability can be limited with some turnouts only accommodating one vehicle. For those seeking more solitude, Limestone Butte Resevoir Dispersed offers gorgeous scenery, though access requires medium clearance vehicles as it's accessed via a 2-track road. This area typically has only one camping spot available but rewards visitors with exceptional natural beauty. Both locations provide authentic dispersed camping experiences in the Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands system.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Nebraska National Forests?

Dispersed camping in Nebraska National Forests typically permits camping within 300 feet of designated Forest Service roads. At Buffalo Gap National Grasslands, camping is allowed but requires self-sufficiency as there are no amenities provided. Be aware that some National Forest lands may have cattle leases during certain times of year, which can affect camping conditions. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and respect any fire restrictions in place. Camping is generally limited to 14 days within a 30-day period. Before setting up camp, check for any temporary closures or restrictions with the local ranger district, as these can change seasonally.

Is free camping available in Nebraska National Forests and what amenities can I expect?

Yes, free camping is available throughout Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands, but expect minimal to no amenities. Bordeaux Wildlife Management Area offers free dispersed camping with a parking area that can accommodate several vehicles, though the surface is uneven. It's conveniently located just a few miles from shopping in Chadron and offers good Verizon cell signal. At Gilbert Baker Wildlife Management Area, you'll find drive-in access but similarly primitive conditions. Free dispersed sites generally have no toilets, no trash service, no hookups, and no water sources. Pack in all necessary supplies and be prepared for self-sufficient camping.

What's the difference between boondocking and dispersed camping in Nebraska National Forests?

In Nebraska National Forests, the terms boondocking and dispersed camping are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences. Dispersed camping refers specifically to camping on public lands outside of designated campgrounds, following Forest Service regulations about distance from roads and maximum stay limits. Boondocking generally means camping without hookups or services, often emphasizing self-sufficiency. At places like Buffalo Gap National Grasslands, both terms apply - you're camping in undeveloped areas without amenities. The key similarity is the lack of facilities: no restrooms, no running water, no trash service, and no electrical hookups. Both require proper waste management, carrying in water, and adhering to fire regulations when applicable.

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