Sidney, Nebraska sits at approximately 4,091 feet elevation on the southwestern edge of the Nebraska Panhandle. The area experiences hot summers and cold winters, with most RV campgrounds remaining open year-round despite seasonal temperature fluctuations. Local camping options range from full-service RV parks to more basic facilities, with most offering pull-through sites to accommodate larger vehicles.
What to do
Visit historical landmarks: Take a day trip to Chimney Rock, just 60 miles from Cabela's RV Park & Campground. "Chimney Rock is a landmark that rises high above the prairie and was a landmark for those traveling the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trail. A paved trail leads to great views of the rock and opportunity for pictures," notes Tom D. The nearby Courthouse and Jail Rocks are also worth seeing.
Explore small towns: Walk to local establishments from Creekside RV Park in Chappell. "Within walking distance of a couple of bars and grills and a bowling alley, so make sure to check them out," recommends Brittany M. Many RV parks in the Sidney region provide easy access to local communities.
Enjoy outdoor recreation: The area offers access to fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. "This is a little RV park with a view of hay bales. Large cottonwood trees for shade and plenty of room for the dogs to run!" describes tatiana P. about Oregon Trail RV Campground. Nearby Lake McConaughy provides water recreation options when seasonal conditions permit.
What campers like
Convenient shopping access: The proximity to Cabela's flagship store is a highlight for many travelers. "We were only going to stay one night at this convenient campground with full hook-ups after a visit to the first Cabela's. But in the store we learned from an employee of a side trip we could take and extended our stay another day," explains Tom D.
Clean facilities: Many rv campgrounds near Sidney, Nebraska maintain well-kept amenities. "Clean facilities, affordable overnight, playground but the road noise from 80 is very loud," reports Lauren B. about Cabela's RV Park. Similarly at Oregon Trail RV Campground, another camper noted it was "clean and well-maintained."
Helpful owners: Personal service stands out at several campgrounds in the region. "Luke, the owner of Oregon Trail RV Park, stepped in at the last minute and gave us a place to stay. This park was exactly what we needed—easy to find, impeccably maintained, and truly welcoming to both us and our pets," shared Mandie R.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad disturbances. At Oregon Trail RV Campground, Karen W. observed, "The only negative is that the campground is right next to train tracks, and trains travel past it often. The last one I heard before I fell asleep was around 11:00 pm. I woke up at 6:00 and counted three trains by 7:30."
Highway noise: Interstate proximity affects sound levels at some Sidney RV parks. "Clean facilities, affordable overnight, playground but the road noise from 80 is very loud. If you don't want hookups of any kind you can park in the large lot in front of the store overnight for free," notes Lauren B. about Cabela's RV Park.
Seasonal considerations: Sprinkler systems operate at specific times in some parks. "Sprinklers turn on at 9:30 so don't leave anything out," warns Nicole about Cabela's RV Park & Campground. Another camper mentioned "Beware of the sprinklers, they will definitely leave water spots."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Campground was very clean. Our toddler loved exploring Cabelas and playing at the playground," shares Kiersten S. about Cabela's RV Park. Kid-friendly amenities vary between locations.
Museum outings: Consider educational side trips while staying near Sidney. "Chimney Rock historic site is only 60 miles from the Cabela's campground... There is a museum on site that was very educational. We tend to spend more time than most, taking about 2-3 hours in the museum," suggests Tom D.
Pet considerations: Policies for pets vary across Sterling RV Park - The Landing and other facilities in the region. One camper at Oregon Trail RV Campground appreciated that it was "truly welcoming to both us and our pets. The RV spaces were clean and spacious, with plenty of room for our dogs to enjoy themselves."
Tips from RVers
Registration procedures: Each RV park has different check-in protocols. At Cabela's, "You drive in and find a site, then go to a cashier in the store to register," explains Mike H. Understanding registration requirements prevents confusion upon arrival.
Site layout considerations: At Oregon Trail RV Campground, be aware of utility placement. "Since the sewer is on the north side of each site, you may have to run your hose under the camper or use the sewer hookup in the lot next to you, if no one is parked there," advises Karen W.
First-come availability: Many Sidney area RV campgrounds fill up quickly during peak travel periods. Mike H. recommends: "Big rig friendly, but arrive around 3pm since the place fills up fast later in the day" when staying at Cabela's RV Park.
