Equestrian facilities abound in northwestern Nebraska's diverse landscape, where forests meet grasslands at elevations ranging from 3,500 to 4,000 feet. The Pine Ridge region creates a unique ecosystem for horse camping, with numerous trails spanning through ponderosa pine forests and open grasslands. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during day and cool to 55-60°F at night, with occasional thunderstorms common in late afternoon.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Nebraska National Forest offers multiple trail systems with varying terrain suitable for horses. Chadron State Park connects to several trails in the Nebraska National Forest, which Susan L. notes is "the largest hand planted forest in the US. It felt like a green oasis in the 'desert' of Western Nebraska!"
Explore historic sites: Fort Robinson State Park features numerous historic buildings and landmarks worth visiting. As Candy L. shares, "There are loads of activities close by to do and see including historic sites, museum, swimming pool, fishing, Jeep rides, it's seriously endless!"
Water recreation: Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area provides fishing and boating options near the forest. One camper observed, "Reservoir was low but people fishing, tubing and having fun. Some sites close together along reservoir."
Jeep tours and trail rides: Organized excursions are available seasonally. As noted in a review, the park offers "jeep tours, short and long horseback trail rides, stagecoach rides, chuckwagon meals, breakfast or dinner among the nearby buttes."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: The shower houses and bathrooms at Red Cloud Campground receive positive mentions. A camper notes: "Bathrooms and showers are available near the partial hookup campground. Good Verizon cell coverage."
Spacious campsites: Sites at Sheps Canyon Recreation Area offer ample room. Joe C. describes: "Nice spacious 50 amp campsites. We camped about 50 feet from the bathhouse which had four separate toilet/shower rooms which were very spacious and very clean."
Historic setting: The military history creates a unique camping atmosphere. One visitor mentioned, "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."
Variety of accommodation options: Beyond traditional campsites, alternative lodging exists. At Chadron State Park, "The park has pretty much everything: a fishing pond, a trading post for basic camp supplies and some food, swimming pool, seasonal horseback trail rides, archery range, tennis court, disc golf, sand volleyball, horseshoe pits, softball field, playground, AC/heated cabins."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Nebraska state parks require vehicle passes. Robert W. explains: "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."
Site variations: Campground quality varies across the region. Dennis G. notes about one campground: "Unlevel asphalt parking, very few trees, pretty close to your neighbors, and incredibly rough (paved) access roads to the campground. Nothing but dead dry grass around you."
Seasonal operations: Many facilities operate on limited schedules. One campground specifically notes a season from "April 15 to November 15," though others may vary.
Equestrian facilities: Horse Barn Stalls provide dedicated options for horse owners. These specialized facilities offer secure overnight accommodations while owners camp nearby.
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreation for children. Ryan S. shares about Chadron: "Nice main pond to do some fishing, streams that run through the area, a nice park and playground for kids to play in, an indoor 3D archery facility, a community pool with two diving boards and it has a little kid pool for those not yet good swimmers."
Consider cabin options: For families not ready for tent camping, alternatives exist. Billy B. notes, "They also offer cabins to rent if you plan on staying the night."
Plan for road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. One camper warned about a specific area: "Highway noise VERY prevalent right behind the camp site."
Research site locations: Soldier Creek Campground offers family-appropriate sites. Haley N. shares: "I had neighbors but there was plenty of space that I didn't feel like they were encroaching on my site. The trees were perfect for hammocking and there was a little creek right next to it."
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Electric service varies by location. At Sheps Canyon, a camper notes they offer "spacious 50 amp campsites" while others may have 30-amp service only or no hookups.
Leveling requirements: Site conditions impact setup ease. MalibuDave42 reports at Box Butte: "Not many campsites, but all very accessible for any sized rig. There are tent sites as well. All sites are messed against the Cottonwood trees for afternoon shade."
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. One RVer warned about "incredibly rough (paved) access roads to the campground" at one location.
Concrete pad availability: Nebraska National Forest at Chadron offers various site surfaces. Susan L. shares: "The site I was in was level, but there was no shade. Shade trees are sparse in the area where I was camped."
