Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Spencer, NE

Good little spot in a small town. Electrical hook ups but no water. There was a spigot for water but it wasn’t turned in. A couple of porta potties there but we didn’t use them. Room for only one camper with hookups but room for another camper or 2 to park. Some noise from the highway which is right by the park but it wasn’t bad. There’s a playground for the kids. We had our two dogs with us and didn’t see any signs about no pets.

This campground features cabins and tent camping. Designed for families, there is a playground and lots of open space for the kids to run around. Pets are welcome. There is a small pond stocked for fishing right in the middle of the tent camping area. Take a short hike to see where the Niobrara river dumps into the Missouri and take in some of the best views in Nebraska. In the winter months, hunters often use the cabins as home base and hunt in the surrounding woods.

All around beautiful place. We had a great camping experience this summer. The grounds were clean, beautiful scenery, pet friendly and fun hiking trails! There's a lot of really cool cabins to choose from and the tent camping areas are in great locations scattered around the park. Definitely for the 3 hour drive up there.

This campground is so nice. Electric hookup only, but full and dump station is close and nicely laid out. Campsites have lots of trees. It was quiet and peaceful. There are trails to hike and sites to see nearby. There is not a place to get diesel nearby, so plan for that if you need too. Sportsmen’s Bar & Two Rivers Hotel is a nice place to eat that’s nearby. No fuss, good food. There are however, a tremendous amount of ticks. If you bring pets, you may think about them not joining you on hikes.

This was a very pleasant surprise. I normally do not go to campsites (that is put in for context) but was passing through on a business trip and needed a place with electric hookups. After a Harvest Host disaster I found this. Like I said, very pleasantly surprised. While there were a lot of campers who seemed to be setting up elaborate sites with everything you would need to live there for a year (laundry lines, flag poles, pens for their dog), I was able to get a spot that backed right up to the beautiful river and had plenty of space on all sides. The campsite was surprisingly quiet for how large it was. The sunset paddle boarding on the river was a real treat. Kinda cool to say you SUP'd from South Dakota to Nebraska with a beer on the board. 

Bathrooms were clean and had showers. Garbage and recycling on premises. AT&T signal was strong.

Leave no trace.

A wooded campground, about .25 mile walk/drive to the river. Clean bathrooms and vault toilets. Nice shoreline to stroll along with dogs. Saw mountain lion tracks along shore...

There are 9, possibly 10, back in camping spots. $25.00 a night, which I thought very reasonable for all they offer. Bathrooms with showers. Water and sewer at all sites. 50 - 30 - 15 amp service at all sites. Picnic tables and fire pits with grates at all sites. Picnic area with cement floors and cover. Dogs across the way are noisy, but we hope they get used to things and quite down. Money for stay needs to be brought downtown to a bar, or you can call a number, and so.eone will come out and pick it up. Grass is very long at the sites, which seems to encourage the bugs and mosquitoes .

We are usually tent campers but stayed in a cabin this trip which worked out well because as the sun went down the mosquitos came out and they were ferocious. The cabin was very nice and we were allowed to bring our dogs. We were there the first day the pool opened for the year so the water was very cold but we had so much fun. We did some hiking and a lot of bike riding. Being there during the week so early in the season we missed all of the activities that they have on weekends but enjoyed having the park to ourselves. This park is out of the way so probably doesn't get as much traffic as some other parks. We will definitely go back some day.

More then once as a Dyrt Ranger I have searched in vain for a campsite listed on a map. I was completely surprised when I found the Tyndall City Park AND it had places to camp!

When you first drive to the park it looks like your typical city park, nice fishing pond for the kids , cemented walking path, ballfields, disc golf, etc. But then down at the very end next to the ballfields are electric hookups and parking for RVs! Mind you this is no luxury campground, it’s the basics. On further exploration of the immediate area I came to the conclusion that this site is probably mostly used by visiting participants in 4H. There is a 4H complex across the street from the hookups.

The park is located off the local neighborhood and quiet. There is no shade at the RV sites. No picnic tables or fire rings on the cement lot where the electric boxes are located. This is definitely an event oriented “campground” or overnight/visiting relatives pit stop. There is an honor box and small latrine near the sites. No privacy if it’s busy but we were totally alone and saw few people when we visited.

The dogs enjoyed the walk around the fishing pond and it was a very relaxed atmosphere, at least to me. I did not attempt to start a fire, no one to ask if I could and no fire rings. There was a grass area by the camp sites with picnic tables and shade, you could easily put a tent/hammock in that area but I don’t know if it’s permitted.

Overall a useful area, in town, near shopping and fuel but not a vacation destination in my opinion.

This park has so much to offer, it is located where the Niobrara and the Missouri River meet. Many amazing views beautiful clean water and miles of hiking trails. I unfortunately was not able to hike for too long due to the hot day I chose to venture off in the woods, but luckily enough was able to cool off in their breathtaking river and than in their pool. For camping this place is by far one of the best campgrounds I have been to. The cabins are fully furnished back porch tv dishes all you need are good friends and family and your food to fill the fridge... I will be there constantly while I'm in Nebraska, hope to see you there. Happy camping

Fees:   Daily   $8.00    Annual   $36.00    Campsites   26.00 electrical 50 amp (.available) Campsites  $22.00 Non electrical Horsecamp 22.00 Non electrical

Reservations 800-710-2267 on line travel.compsd.com  northpoint@state.sd.us 

Open year round Oct 1– April 30 water systems may be shut down. 

Contact Park for more info

23 sites 5 horsecamp sites

PROS Secluded, well maintained, new comfort station, horsecamp I don’t think any site is bad

CONS Short sites, narrow country road

Firewood fish cleaning station water horse trails playground biking birding boating fishing hunting swimming flush toilets showers picnic tables fire ring/grill boat ramp dump station

The Pease Creek Recreation Area Horse campground is a nonelectric site. You will find a fire ring picnic table horse corral vault toilets water spigots Generator may be used from 8 am to 9 pm. Dogs must be on a ten foot leash. Make sure out of state horses have proper documentation for health.

Recreation Area was created when the Fort Randall Dam was created in 1953. There are 540 miles of shoreline and 102,000 acres of surface water. The land surrounding the recreation area was the ancestral homeland to numerous Plains Indians. Mainly short sites in this cozy campground with a new bath/shower house. Campground is well maintained. The road in is a very narrow country road meaning the camp and road are better suited for smaller rigs. You will find 600 acres to hike, horseback ride, fish, bird watch, hunt, all things outdoors along the Missouri River. This area provides all types of water sports, winter sports, wildlife viewing, fishing and hunting.

Firewood Alert:   Please purchase firewood in the local area. Do not transport from another state, if you do please burn immediately due to the Emerald Ash Borer.

CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY Another issue that has become an increasing problem is Aquatic Invasive Species .(AIS) which is spreading in the United States. There are different types of AIS and they are being spread by several methods. Boaters, of all types, help spread or help stop the spread by taking care of their watercraft. Before leaving a boat launch practice the CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY technique. Many states require a AIS permit before you place watercraft in the water.

Directions:  9 miles south of Geddes off SD highway 1804 GPS 43.14021-98.73186

LNT

Better than when you found it

Stay safe Happy travels

Not to be mistaken as Fort Niobrara, Niobrara State Park , NE is near Niobrara and Verdel, NE. The popular Niobrara River runs along the far side of the park and one of the attractions is the old train bridge which is now part of the converted trail that you can explore.

When we arrived the 80 degree temperatures from Kentucky did not arrive with us. The weather was windy, sprinkling and dropping with the sun. The night time low was about 43 degrees. I learned on another trip to pack all temperature range clothing especially this time of year, so I had my sniffle gear. We were one of three occupied sites in the campground. The other two sites had RV’s , I decided on truck camping and was glad I did.

The actual campground is spacious and had some trees. The showerhouse was well maintained and something new to me had pay showers. I hadn’t packed any quarters but have now added another helpful tidbit to my list of must haves while camping. (Roll of quarters, check) I attempted to leave my windows open after throwing a tarp over the truck but even though the temperature was low the mosquitoes were FIERCE! I don’t even want to know how bad they are in warm weather. So with the truck closed up we snuggled in for the night. I was a little surprised when I was woken by my dogs barking at coyotes that could be heard very nearby. Considering how sparsely populated the area is it shouldn’t have been that surprising, you really feel like your out in the middle of nowhere. Just shows how Northern I am ;) I was disappointed it was overcast , the sky would have been phenomenal with no lights to ruin the view.

This Park is laid out in a “horseshoe” and speed restrictions make it a long drive from end to end. The visitors center has some helpful employees that were very informative. Not surprisingly the river is the big draw in the area. The Ranger I spoke to said that there was a reinactment of the Lewis and Clark expedition due in that weekend. I was directed to the trailhead further in past the several cabins sitting in opportune locations along the road. The trail was moderately technical and you get to walk across the Niobrara on an old train bridge converted to a walkway. Unfortunately the far side was closed. There is also a horse trail ride offered (which would have been interesting with the boys).

The one con of the campground is that though you have an excellent view of the Niobrara River there is no easy access to it from the sites. Definitely a destination campground if you enjoy the river sports.

This is a very comfortable location with power, water and a nearby dump station. It's an easy walk to any place in town. Also a go jumping off point for all of Boyd County...

It’s a city park, a play ground. Portapotties on site. Found it on Dyrt so we are hoping it’s okay to boondocks here. There are no signs saying you can’t park overnight, but also no signs saying you can camp. Guess we will try it.

Nice spots, beautiful lake and beach, not crowded at all. Only negative point is it’s close to the street. But since there is not a lot of traffic it was pretty quiet. Bring your insect spray and enjoy 😉

Relative to North Point Rec Area, this campground and day use beach were significantly less crowded. All sites seemed to have some shade, picnic table, and fire pit.

When you turn off the highway you will encounter the South Shore Swimming Beach. Lined with mature trees to offer a nicely shaded picnic area with a large parking area. There are some primitive campsites at the swimming beach with fire rings, picnic tables, covered picnic table, gravel beach, pit toilet, water, and trash

Fees:  $8.00 Per vehicle Day use   $36.00 Annual Pass

Campsite  $11.67 per night

South Shore Primitive Camping

FCFS   Pit toilet   Fire ring   Trash   Small covered pavilion with a picnic table   Drinking water

To reach the second section of South Shore pull back onto the secondary road and turn right. Less than 1/10 of a mile you will see the well maintained sites. The road is in good shape and the campground is exceptional for a primitive site. A few sites are on the water and the remaining just on the other side of the camp road. There are no bad sites, just not many of them. This campsite runs along the Missouri River and Lake Francis Case.

Lake Francis Case has a shoreline of 540 miles and a depth of 140 feet. The area is rural and shopping can be difficult. I suggest buying local when possible but stock up before you arrive.

Fishing from shore. Fishing: walleye northern pike sauger sunfish perch common carp black bullhead channel catfish smallmouth bass

Enjoy watching the bald Eagles during the winter months

LNT

Better than when you found it

Stay safe Happy travels

This is an underrated campground. It’s got one pit toilet, clean, no hookups so no RVs, except me, a great view from any site, and, most of all not crowded, in fact I’ve been here twice now, once in mid to late fall and also late June and have been the only camper. That’s good! If you like that sort of thing. Don’t we all dream of that perfect camp with no one else around? Give this place more credit. I do see a reserve for the 4th Of July weekend and that is to be expected. I say, don’t camp here, only because I want it to myself. Have fun!

Boating. Fishing. Volleyball. Disc golf. Boat Ramp. Drinking water. Dump station. Fish cleaning station Shore fishing. Fishing piers. Flush toilets/showers. Picnic tables Playground. Pit toilet

Fee:  Daily  $8.00

Annual       $36.00

Campsite   $26.00 electrical

                    $22.00  non electrical

Tailrace is located along the beautiful shoreline of Lake Francis Case and it is the perfect location for outdoor activities

.• PROS Outdoor activities

• CONS Outdoor activities 

If you love the outdoors this is the place for you. The construction on the dam began in 1946 and started generating electricity in 1954. 

Most of the sites are smaller sites and great but there are some sites for larger rigs. Mature trees dot the landscape,  Make sure you check on your size before making your plans. If you have a boat bring it or anything that you can put in the water, kayak, SUP, canoe, or any other type boat. The roads into the park and in the park are in very good shape and the landscape is well maintained. 

For me a very big draw would be the bald eagles in the fall and winter. Birders will enjoy this area because of the opportunity to observe the majestic Bald Eagle. The eagles roost area in the park is a designated National Natural Landmark. Many bald eagles winter below the dam and catch their fish in the lake. They usually perch within 50 feet of the riverbank in the tall cottonwood trees. Check them out in the morning when they normally feed. Walkers and cross country skiers are allowed in the bald eagle area but you must not disturb the roosting bald eagles. Motorized traffic is not allowed in the roosting area as it may disturb them. If you are planning to visit the campground during the roosting season check to make sure they have not closed the campsites due to the possibility of the eagles being disturbed.

 Location is 1 mile west of Pickstown off Hwy 281 below Randal Dam.

 605-487-7046 

GPS 43.05102.      -98.55514 

LNT 

Better than when you found it 

Stay safe Happy travels

Daily Fee:  $8.00 per vehicle or annual fee $36.00

Campsites  $23.00 electrical

Camping cabins  $55.00

Reservations  1-800-710-2267

randallcreek@state.sd.us

Park closed Nov 15 - 3rd Friday in March due to eagles nesting

Boating   Fishing   Volleyball   Disc golf   Boat Ramp   Drinking water   Dump station   Fish cleaning station   Shore fishing   Fishing piers   Flush toilets/showers   Picnic tables Playground   Pit toilet

Tailrace is located along the beautiful shoreline of Lake Francis Case and it is the perfect location for outdoor activities.

• PROS Outdoor activities• CONS Outdoor activities 

If you love the outdoors this is the place for you. 

The construction on the dam began in 1946 and started generating electricity in 1954. Most of the sites are smaller sites and great but there are some sites for larger rigs. Make sure you check on your size before making your plans. If you have a boat bring it or anything that you can put in the water, kayak, SUP, canoe, or any other type boat. The roads into the park and in the park are in very good shape and the landscape is well maintained. 

For me a very big draw would be the bald eagles in the fall and winter. Birders will enjoy this area because of the opportunity to observe the majestic Bald Eagle. The eagles roost area in the park is a designated National Natural Landmark. Many bald eagles winter below the dam and catch their fish in the lake. They usually perch within 50 feet of the riverbank in the tall cottonwood trees. Check them out in the morning while feeding. Walkers and cross country skiers are allowed in the bald eagle area but you must not disturb the roosting bald eagles. Motorized traffic is not allowed in the roosting area as it may disturb them. If you are planning to visit the campground during the roosting season check with the campground to make sure they have not closed the campsites due to the possibility of the eagles being disturbed.

Location is 1 mile west of Pickstown off Hwy 281 below Randal Dam. 605-487-7046 GPS 43.05102-98.55514

 LNT 

Better than when you found it 

Stay safe Happy travels

This is a beautiful campground to visit. Nice size lots, and lovely scenery. We enjoy fishing, walking the trails, and seeing the wildlife.

Cabins are super cute and fit the price. $55/night gives you AC, electricity, and a bed (2 twins, 1 full). Great view from the cabin deck. Verizon works good. Close to the swimming beach and vault toilet.