Royal, Nebraska offers RV campers access to several recreation areas along the Missouri River and Lewis and Clark Lake. The region sits at approximately 2,000 feet elevation in northeast Nebraska, where summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with occasional thunderstorms. Winter camping remains available at some locations, though services may be limited when temperatures drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access: Nebraska Tailwaters provides direct Missouri River access with an ADA-accessible fishing pier. "There is a fishing pier and boat ramp. There are only about 10 tent campsites and a bunch of RV sites," notes camper James D.
Biking trails: Paved paths connect camping areas at Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, allowing cyclists to explore the lake shoreline. "This beautiful campground has a bike trail that connects all the beaches. It has hiking trails, parks, and a georgous lake for swimming or boating," says reviewer Courtney G.
Wildlife viewing: The riverfront camping areas attract numerous bird species. "The Missouri River Valley is worth seeing at some point in your life. There are a lot of birds in the park which my wife appreciated," reports one visitor to Nebraska Tailwaters.
What campers like
Waterfront locations: Many RV sites near Royal, Nebraska offer direct water views. At Willow Creek State Recreation Area, "Most RV campsites are within a minute or two walk to lake. Awesome bike trails take you all around the lake and even across a bridge and dam for great views from multiple angles," according to Nate R.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. "The bathrooms and shower were not open yet. Locked my keys in the truck. The O'Neill Police opened my truck, within 20 minutes. I noticed they also patrolled the area," reports JAMES B. about Carney Park.
Affordability: Camping costs remain reasonable throughout the region. "Water and electric with pad and picnic tables and trees for $20! Also some tent sites," writes a visitor about Carney Park, highlighting the value.
What you should know
Seasonal water issues: Algae blooms affect some recreation areas during summer months. "Unfortunately Willow Creek State Recreation Area, NE was under a health advisory when we arrived due to algae," reports Shelly S., adding "This seems like a nice, sparsely shaded area with water sports when it's safe to be in the water."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "If it is during peak season, you want to reserve a site 90 days in advance," advises a Lewis and Clark Recreation Area camper.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dump facilities. "There is no dump station available at the park, you have to drive to town to dump your tanks at the courthouse," notes Charlie M. about Willow Creek State Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Oregon Trail RV Park (formerly Wheel Inn) provides convenient access to town recreation. "Small, clean, no frills. Across the street from a spectacular city playground/swimming pool. Owner very friendly and accommodating. Credit cards not accepted, cash and check allowed," says Rebecca Y.
Beach options: Lewis and Clark Recreation Area features multiple swimming areas. "This park has many campgrounds located throughout the park, cabins, boat docks, beaches, showers and large campsites. Well groomed green space, playgrounds and bike trails," writes Jen K.
Quiet camping: Several campgrounds enforce noise restrictions. "Its a great place to go with friends. Theres not a lot of noise after dark. Enjoy views of the lake," notes Lexii R. about Lewis and Clark Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Long-term options: Paulson RV Park accommodates extended stays with full hookups. "They had long term parking for campers not hooked up to anything and long term parking for full hookups. No dumping station because most the sites all have sewer. Were able to hook to water through the winter as well," states William P., adding "Super cheap too. $200 per month for long term plus electric you are responsible for and $15 per day for short term."
Accessibility: Some RV sites near Royal offer concrete pads for easier leveling. "We texted the host asking for a spot and got a quick response back. We parked in our spot and put the payment in a box. The night was quiet and there is a gas station about 3 blocks away," shares Logan M. about Paulson RV Park.
Site spacing: Campgrounds vary in how closely sites are positioned. "Campsites are not sitting on top of each other," notes one Lewis and Clark Recreation Area visitor, making it more comfortable for larger rigs.
