Stromsburg, Nebraska sits in the eastern part of the state at 1,676 feet above sea level, with camping options scattered among the gently rolling plains and agricultural landscapes. The area experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers reaching into the 90s and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Most campgrounds near Stromsburg operate seasonally with limited facilities available during winter months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Smith Creek Recreation Area provides access to a creek-fed lake with boat and fishing dock. "Nice quiet spot on a creek fed lake. Boat/fishing dock. Newly constructed restrooms on a concrete pad," notes Ron O. about the peaceful fishing environment.
Disc golf course: Buckley Park Campground features an 18-hole disc golf course among its recreational amenities. One camper mentioned, "They have an 18 hole disc golf, tennis, volleyball, basketball, pool, and 3 playgrounds. They have really put a lot of work in this park."
Water recreation: Enjoy paddleboats at Prairie Oasis Campground & Cabins where the small pond offers relaxed water activities. "Pond has three paddle boats and you can fish. Water is murky and seems to only contain bluegill and bullheads," reports Bryan R., noting the fishing conditions.
What campers like
Free camping options: Smith Creek Recreation Area offers no-cost camping in a peaceful setting. A camper shared: "It's a little free picnic area with free tent sites in between cornfields. There's little grills to cook and big fire pit that even had free wood by it."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms at campgrounds throughout the region. At River Land Campground, one reviewer noted: "The shower house is brand new and beautiful & very clean inside. Great place to stay in eastern Nebraska!"
Affordability: Czechland Lake Recreation Area offers budget-friendly camping options. "Pay with your phone with QR code scan to pay so no need to have cash or check. There is a water fill and lake to kayak and use non-motorized boats," reports Stacy D. about the $20/night electric sites.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds have nearby railroad tracks that can affect light sleepers. About Buckley Park Campground, Jared C. notes: "While there are not a lot of trains that go through you will hear a loud train once in a while."
Cell service variations: Connectivity differs between locations. Jason P. reported about one location: "There was no T-Mobile phone service so we did not have Internet or Phone service, but this was the only inconvenience that we experienced during our stays."
Limited shade: Recharge Lake Campground has minimal tree cover in some areas. "In the tent area there is 0 shade and not all sites have a fit pit. You do have to pack in but it is not far," writes Tarrah C. about the exposure to sun and elements.
First-come basis: Many sites cannot be reserved ahead of time. "It is a 1st come 1st served campground. There are no reservations so be warned on that, but you can call ahead and get a feel for availability," advises one Buckley Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Prairie Oasis Campground & Cabins provides family-friendly amenities. "Sweet little pond with bull frogs that my sons loved chasing after, paddle boats, swing set and sand box," mentions Melissa H. about the kid-friendly activities.
Swimming options: Several locations offer swimming facilities during summer months. "Columbus has activities for kids too. Water park (the Pawnee plunge) & playgrounds (Centennial Park)," notes Peter S. about attractions near River Land Campground.
No-wake boating: Czechland Lake offers calm waters for beginners. "Has fishing, kayaking, hiking, 3 covered picnic areas with electricity, wildlife watching, no-wake boating," describes Kyla B., making it suitable for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. One RVer at Czechland Lake noted: "We stayed at site number 8 which may be one of the more unlevel spots. The passenger side of our 5th wheel was about 7" lower than driver side and rear of fifth wheel was about 3" lower than front before we levelled out."
Larger rig access: River Land Campground accommodates bigger RVs with spacious sites. "RV sites are spacious, concrete patios w/ picnic tables, new fire rings," reports Peter S. about the amenities designed for larger recreational vehicles.
Stay duration limits: Some RV camping near Stromsburg, Nebraska has restrictions on length of stay. One camper at Buckley Park noted: "It is a 4 day Max and you have to leave for 10 days before you can come back," which requires planning for longer visits to the area.
