Tent campsites near Valentine, Nebraska range from riverside sites to forest settings within the Great Plains. The region sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation with summer temperatures reaching the 90s and winter lows frequently below freezing. The Nebraska sandhills terrain creates a mixed environment of prairie grasses and coniferous forests with sandy soil that drains quickly after rainfall.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: At East Campground, campers can cool off at Smith Falls during hot summer days. "We had a great time playing in the falls and wading close to shore in the river. We were there during the week so it was not very busy with campers," notes Rick J.
Stargazing: The Valentine area offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "Cherry County is about the size of Connecticut. It is so sparsely populated it is known for its endless sandhills and clear night sky's. The Nebraska Star gazing festival is held in Cherry County annually," explains Charles C. at Big Alkali Lake State Wildlife Area.
Canoeing/tubing: The Niobrara River provides multiple day floating options. "Local outfitters work with you to ride the shallow Niobrara river to the campground, and then will pick you up further down the river the next day," writes Sarah H. about West Campground.
What campers like
Spacious lakeside sites: Merritt Reservoir offers tent campsites with generous spacing. "Pine Area is a small primitive campground with only 3 sites. All with Great Lake view. Each site has a bench and fire ring. These sites are very spacious and could have multiple tents," reports Shannon G. at Pine Campground.
Sandhills exploration: The unique terrain provides opportunities for off-trail adventures. "While it's technically National Forest land, most is Sandhills prairie which is awesome for off-trail hiking and exploring. You can do free dispersed camping according to USFS guidelines," shares Katharine H. about Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest.
Wildlife viewing: Many tent camping areas feature abundant wildlife. "I saw fire flies and song birds it was heaven," writes Tammy Rae S. about her experience at West Campground. The sandhills region supports diverse ecosystems where campers regularly report seeing deer, birds, and sometimes coyotes.
What you should know
Water access challenges: Reaching water can sometimes be difficult. "Unfortunately, there is poison ivy everywhere you step. No way to get down the 20 foot cliff to the waters edge. Had to drive clear around the lake to find a single spot to fish," reports Dwayne and Heather W. from Pine Campground.
Road conditions: Many camping areas require careful navigation. "The road to get here was a little bumpy! Watch out for cattle," warns Ashley N. about West Campground. Some roads become impassable after heavy rain.
Free camping options: Certain areas offer no-cost camping with surprising amenities. "There are about 20 other primitive sites with firepits or grills and picnic tables. I assume unlimited camping if you just wish to throw up a tent. There is no charge for the sites, no entrance fee, no cost for electric, FREE," states Charles C. about Big Alkali Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access sites: Some tent campsites near Valentine provide water entry points suitable for children. "Was extremely lucky to get site #1. Shaded section with a nice little beach to walk into the river," reports Price T. about East Campground.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near water. "The mosquitoes could carry away small pets," warns Rick J. at East Campground. Bring repellent with high DEET percentage for summer camping.
Shower facilities: Limited shower options exist in the area. "Coin operated showers (who Carrie's quarters anymore?). Be prepared as the hot water doesn't work, and you get a nice 'refreshing' ice shower," notes Dwayne and Heather W. about facilities at Merritt Reservoir.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle requirements: High-clearance vehicles are often necessary. "A very long, graded, extremely bumpy road to the State Park. Also a couple of 7-8% grades along the route," warns Charyle C. about Cottonwood Campground.
Size limitations: Most primitive tent camping areas near Valentine aren't suitable for larger RVs. "Not good for RV's unless you have 4 wheel drive and a high clearance type camper," notes Shelly S. about West Campground.
Dispersed options: For those with appropriate vehicles, off-grid camping provides solitude. "We went WELL off the beaten path. Not far into the national forest, Google maps showed a road leading to a river. The 'road' is a grass trail. Not very hard, but definitely want a vehicle that isn't low to the ground to avoid bottoming out," advises Absolutley N. about McKelvie National Forest.
