Camping options near Valentine sit in north-central Nebraska's Sandhills region at approximately 2,582 feet elevation. The Niobrara River, designated as a National Scenic River, flows through the area creating a unique microclimate where six ecosystems converge. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with nighttime lows in the 60s, making water activities particularly popular.
What to do
Tube the Niobrara River: Cedar Bay Campground serves as an excellent base for water recreation. "We look forward to this camping trip with friends every year. They made it so there is good cell service now so that's a bonus. About half of the sites are reservable and half are first come first serve," notes Shannon G.
Explore Nebraska's tallest waterfall: At East Campground at Smith Falls State Park, visitors can access the 70-foot Smith Falls via a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk. "The path is Wheel chair accessible too which is great and makes it easy for little kids too!" says Shirlee A., who calls the falls "so incredible!"
Fish at Merritt Reservoir: Located 26 miles from Valentine, Merritt Reservoir Main Area Campground offers extensive fishing opportunities. "Love camping at Merritt. Many different campsites to choose from. Walk up and extended stay. Great fishing and boating. The Scenic Sandhills surround the lake," reports Shane H.
What campers like
Affordable tent camping: Valentine City Park offers no-frills camping for budget travelers. "Simple campsite with no real designated camping spots, just pull up to a piece of level ground and pay the $10 fee. Water is available at a few places around the campground with the the most convenient water spigot near the bathroom/shower house," says Daniel C.
Clean shower facilities: Fishberry Campground receives consistent praise for its cleanliness. "Owners were super nice & the shower house is excellent. Nice and clean, private changing area and hooks, bench for your stuff," notes Alecia E. Another camper adds, "Husband said the showers were very nice. Sites were nice and level."
River proximity: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Valentine feature direct river access. "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.
What you should know
Limited phone service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. "Merritt Reservoir Cedar Bay is about 26 miles from Valentine. Cell service can get be hard to get so prepare those teens," warns Shannon G.
Sand burrs: These painful plant seeds are prevalent in the region, especially troublesome for pets. "When you get there you must have a nebraska park permit and also pay a parking fee at the self registration box," reminds a Cedar Bay Campground visitor.
Weather variability: The Sandhills region experiences significant temperature swings. "We had beautiful sunny skies and some famous midwest thunderstorms on each of our two day, two night stays here," shares Joe R. about Rocky Ford Camp and Outfitters.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Select campgrounds with gentle water entry. "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 one parent.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Merritt Reservoir offers wildlife viewing from camp. "This area would be ideal for a large group get together and out in the middle of nowhere so any noise shouldn't be an issue. I heard coyotes and it was pitch black at night, had the sky been clear the stars would have been amazing," reports Shelly S.
Educational experiences: West Campground at Smith Falls State Park provides natural learning opportunities. "Perfect hiking areas. Primitive camping. Wonderful and well built trail up to the tallest waterfall in Nebraska," notes Camden O.
Tips from RVers
Full hookups availability: Fishberry Campground provides the most complete RV services in the immediate area. "If you are in Valentine and looking for full hookups, this is the only place. All the sites are drive thru and have full hookups. It is very clean and sparse, the host is wonderful," states Gail J.
Road conditions: Some campground access roads can be challenging. "Expect minimum maintenance roads in and out of the camp so we had our fingers crossed getting out of really sloppy roads pulling a trailer with a Nissan Rogue but we made it," warns Joe R. about Rocky Ford Camp.
Site spacing considerations: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Valentine offer varying site privacy levels. "Small park with flat, pull-through sites. Clean bathrooms and showers. Pay extra ($16 each) to fill water tank or dump sewer). Some highway noise but tolerable. Friendly staff," reports Amy B. about Fishberry Campground.
