Scottsbluff rises 800 feet above the North Platte River Valley, creating a striking landmark visible for miles across the western Nebraska plains. Summer temperatures often reach the upper 90s with low humidity, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with temperatures ranging from 50-75°F. Winter camping is limited as many campgrounds close seasonally due to snow and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Hiking at Wildcat Hills SRA: Located 10 miles south of Gering, this recreation area offers interconnected hiking trails climbing up to 5,000 feet in elevation. "[There are] 4 main trail heads interconnect through rough, minimally maintained hiking trails that climb up to 5,000 feet. Backpack a lunch to the bottom of the canyon and try to find the Game of Thrones shelter (my pet name for it)," notes Joe R. at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area.
Visit historic landmarks: Chimney Rock is located just 4 miles from Bayard City Park campground. "Within 4 miles of Chimney Rock. Beautiful area. We stayed 3 nights," shares Marvin E. Scotts Bluff National Monument is approximately 5 miles from Riverside Park Campground, with Elizabeth M. noting, "Scottsbluff National Monument 5.3 miles and Frontline bar & grill 1 mile away."
Lake activities: Lake Minatare offers boating, fishing, and swimming options during summer months. "Although this is the Butte View area, all the sites back up to the lake. We did not have reservations but there were plenty of walk up sites available," writes Sue G. about camping near the lake shore.
What campers like
Affordable camping options: Multiple campgrounds offer budget-friendly stays. "Full hookups for $25–made it a reasonable choice for a last-minute overnight stay. Within a short distance of Scottsbluff NPS, and that made it convenient for our plans," says Yondering R. about Riverside Park Campground.
Nature center access: The Wildcat Hills Nature Center provides educational opportunities and indoor space. "There is a huge nature center that will provide a great place to cool off, stay dry or just for learning for the sake of learning," explains Joe R. The center features displays about local wildlife and geology.
Prairie camping experience: Unique camping on open grassland provides a different experience from standard campgrounds. "We loved this experience, which is more than just camping. The prairie is beautiful and the views of the bluff are spectacular! Horses and cows roam. Camping is in an open prairie…plenty of space," shares Sigrid O. about Peaceful Prairie Campsites.
What you should know
Summer heat considerations: Temperatures regularly reach the upper 90s with limited shade at many sites. "Temperature considerations are important when camping with pets in this region, as summer afternoons can reach 100 degrees with limited shade at some sites."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds have limited availability during colder months. "Open May 1– October 1. Got the second to last site on a Wednesday in July(you can reserve sites after the campground opens on May 1)," notes Lee D.
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railroad noise due to nearby tracks. "There is a set of train tracks on the other side of highway, and the trains blow there horns when they come through. Scared the crud out of me because they were so loud," warns Shannon G. about Captain Critters Country Campground.
Bathroom facility quality varies: Some campgrounds have modern facilities while others offer basic options. "The bathhouse was very clean. The park had a laundry, playground and basketball court," writes Lori C., while other campgrounds may only have vault toilets or portable facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "The playground with swings, slides, & merry-go-round at the far end of the park next to a retired steam locomotive! There was also a pool & tennis courts," shares Charles H. about Bayard City Park.
Kid-friendly hiking: Choose trails appropriate for younger hikers. "This campground has many options. There is a playground, trails, a dog park, and a beautiful view, most of all," notes Brenda A.
Consider temperature timing: Plan outdoor activities during morning or evening hours. "Summer afternoons can reach 100 degrees with limited shade at some sites," making early morning or evening the best time for family activities.
Discovery Center visits: Schedule indoor activities during hot afternoons. "Great location...near to fenced small/big dog park, and next to Riverside Discovery Center," mentions Elizabeth M., providing an educational alternative during extreme temperatures.
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: Most RV sites in the area feature level pads or gravel surfaces. "Graveled spot level enough that I didn't bother to make adjustments. Each power post offers 50, 30, & 20 amp connections," reports Charles H.
Site spacing considerations: Some parks offer more room between sites than others. "One nice thing was the sites are plenty big. We didn't feel like we were right on top of each other. Excellent cell coverage. We would stay again," shares Doug W. about Robidoux RV Park.
Pet-friendly options: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas for exercise. "The dog park has separate areas for small and large dogs, making it suitable for various breeds and sizes."
Water hookup variations: Not all sites provide the same utilities. "We chose this campground for its proximity to Scottsbluff. Reasonable cost for sites($10 tent camping,$20 water and electric,$25 for full hook-up). Best sites are the ones at the end of the rows as they have a nice patch of lawn," advises Lee D.
