Camping near Sparks, Nebraska centers around the Niobrara National Scenic River corridor in Cherry County. The region sits within Nebraska's Sandhills region at elevations between 2,300-2,700 feet, creating a unique ecosystem where prairie meets river valley. Campers encounter dramatic temperature shifts between day and night throughout the camping season, with overnight lows frequently 30-40 degrees cooler than daytime highs.
What to do
Hiking to Nebraska's tallest waterfall: Smith Falls State Park features a 70-foot waterfall accessible via a well-maintained boardwalk trail. "Perfect hiking areas. Primitive camping. Wonderful and well built trail up to the tallest waterfall in Nebraska," notes Camden O. The falls serve as a popular midway point for river trips.
Disc golf at city parks: Valentine City Park offers a disc golf course near Minnechaduza Creek. "Mature trees kept us cool from the sun and allowed us to sleep in a little longer in the morning. Great area for dog to run and throw the frisbee. Lots of area to take a walk," writes Jacob S. The park provides easy access to town amenities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings offer the best wildlife spotting times throughout the region. "Watched deer, turkeys, and 3 little river Otters right from our site," reports one visitor at Sharps Outfitters Campground. Many sites along the river provide excellent vantage points for observing native species in their natural habitat.
What campers like
River access for water activities: Many campgrounds provide direct Niobrara River access points for tubing, kayaking and canoeing. "There's a little hiking trail and a boardwalk to the waterfalls. The campsites are a little close to each other, if it was full it may be loud," explains Jordan H. about East Campground.
Secluded riverside camping spots: Berry Bridge Campground offers sites with river views and sound. "Nice clean and well maintained. Staff was friendly. Camp sites are well maintained. Showers and restrooms are clean. Great scenery," writes Joe A. Most river-adjacent campgrounds feature primitive sites with fire rings.
Stargazing opportunities: The region's minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "We had a great time playing in the falls and wading close to shore in the river. This area is amazing for stargazing because it is incredibly dark at night but bring a lot of bug spray, the mosquitoes could carry away small pets," advises Rick J. about East Campground at Smith Falls State Park.
What you should know
Limited connectivity and services: Cell service ranges from spotty to nonexistent at most campgrounds. "Right along the Niobrara River you can truly emerge yourself in the wonders of Nebraska wildlife. Have to go through a lot of ranch land to get there, but in the end there's no service, no running water and all stars," notes Camden O. about Sharps Outfitters.
Seasonal operation schedules: Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with limited or no facilities available in off-season. "We stayed on April 8, and that is too early in the year for the city to turn on water and open the bathrooms. We are totally fine without that," explains Bonnie L. about Valentine City Park.
Sandy conditions require preparation: The Sandhills region means sandy soil throughout camping areas. "We camped near a pretty creek. The area was quiet and peaceful. There were stickers which caused problems for our dogs but I think they could have been avoided," reports Virginia M. about Valentine City Park. Mesh floor mats and good tent stakes help manage sand issues.
Tips for camping with families
Consider Fishberry for full facilities: Fishberry Campground provides clean facilities particularly suitable for families. "We really enjoyed our short two night stay at Fishberry Campground. My girls had a blast exploring by the pond and looking at the wildflowers," shares Melissa V. The campground offers full hookup sites for RVs.
Prepare for insects: Bug protection is essential, particularly in summer months. "The bathrooms are clean there's a shower everyone is super friendly. You can hike to the fall or jump in the river whenever you want because it does get hot. I saw fire flies and song birds it was heaven," notes Tammy Rae S. about West Campground. Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET works best.
Pack water shoes: River activities require appropriate footwear due to rocky and sometimes slippery conditions. "We tent camp and the sights are always clean. Best spots along the river! We will continue to go for years to come and won't stay anywhere else," explains Tracy J. about Sharps Outfitters. Closed-toe water shoes prevent injuries on river trips.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted access for larger rigs. "Per se..I was considering staying here, but after a visit without my rig on my back, I decided it wasn't for me. A very long, graded, extremely bumpy road to the State Park. Also a couple of 7-8% grades along the route," cautions Charyle C. about West Campground at Smith Falls.
Limited full hookup options: Rocky Ford Camp and Outfitters provides some electric sites but most area campgrounds offer partial or no hookups. "They charge $8 per person to camp but children 9 or younger are free. You must be using them for a booked float down the river to stay here," notes Joe R. Many campgrounds require minimum river trip bookings for camping.
Reservation requirements: RV sites at popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak summer season. "With a little jockeying, we were able to get the rig out on the point. Front steps of the RV just 15' from the bank of the Niobrara River! 30amp service at this site," reports R B. about Sharps Outfitters. Reservations 2-3 months in advance recommended for summer weekends.
