Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands offers camping options ranging from primitive dispersed sites to established campgrounds with hookups. Located in the northwestern corner of Nebraska, the area features unique pine ridge formations with a 700-foot elevation difference from the surrounding plains. Seasonal temperature swings can be extreme, with summer highs reaching 90°F while spring and fall nights often drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails with views: Red Cloud Campground provides access to numerous trails throughout Fort Robinson State Park. "There are many 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," notes Pam R.
Swimming options: Chadron State Park Campground offers a community pool for summer recreation. "A community pool with two diving boards and it has a little kid pool for those not yet good swimmers," explains Ryan S. about the facilities available during Fur Trade Days.
Historical exploration: Visit the Museum of the Fur Trade near Chadron. "Really interesting museums in area of Chadron Nebraska. Museum of the fur trade. Rodeo in Crawford Nebraska. Was fun exploring," shares Jeannie E. who stayed at Eagles Rest RV Park.
What campers like
Elevated viewing spots: The 700-foot elevation gain at Pine Ridge Dispersed creates exceptional panoramas. "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!" reports Marc G.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities. "Bathrooms & pay showers are clean and well maintained. Showers use quarters, change machine takes $1 & $5; $1.50 for 4-1/2 minutes," explains Pam R. about Soldier Creek Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Box Butte Reservoir provides water recreation options. "Great fishing and boat lake, but imo i prefer sandy beach for swimming," mentions Michelle S. The reservoir serves as a popular destination even when water levels fluctuate.
What you should know
Additional fees apply: Nebraska state parks require daily vehicle permits. "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," warns Robert W. about Red Cloud Campground.
Limited dispersed camping spots: Though dispersed camping is allowed near Chadron, suitable spots can be hard to find. "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," explains Marc G. who camped at Pine Ridge Dispersed.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby facilities. "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?" shares Paul K. about Crawford City Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Crawford City Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Great playground for kids. Walking Trail nearby," notes William B. who appreciated the park's facilities.
Evening activities: Campground lights may affect stargazing experiences. "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," reports Janet K. from Box Butte Reservoir.
Site selection for families: Some campground sections offer better family accommodations. "The sites were level and the campsite was very clean. Trees were perfect for hammocking and there was a little creek right next to it," recalls Haley N. who found the area safe and accommodating.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access to some dog friendly campgrounds in Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands requires careful driving. "This camp is out of the main stream. Miles down a dirt road. We are in a 35ft Motorhome/ pulling a car - take it slow!" advises francine S. about High Plains Homestead.
Site levelness: Most established campgrounds provide relatively level sites. "All sites are level and all look to accommodate a 45' MH," notes Tom D. about the concrete pads at Red Cloud Campground, though he did mention finding the out-of-state pricing high for the amenities provided.
Bridge weight restrictions: Watch for infrastructure limitations when driving larger rigs. "5 ton weight limit on bridge to get in!!" warns Joel L. about Crawford City Park, an important consideration for those with heavier RVs.
