Camping areas near Shubert, Nebraska sit within the Missouri River floodplain, where the landscape features loess hills and river valleys characteristic of the region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for outdoor recreation. Seasonal flooding can impact certain campgrounds, especially those closer to the Missouri River, with several sites having undergone restoration work following the 2019 floods.
What to do
Hiking in the Loess Hills: At Waubonsie State Park Campground, visitors can explore unique geological formations. "The hiking trails are not for bikes, and they have several different levels or skills levels. The look out was pretty cool as well," notes a camper who appreciated the natural terrain. The park's trail system offers routes across the ridge line with elevation changes not typically found in the region.
Fishing opportunities: Duck Creek Recreation Area provides shore fishing access on a smaller lake that doesn't permit motorized boats. "Fishing is great right off the bank. NRD permit required," reports one visitor. The newer recreation area has well-maintained jetties with paved paths for accessibility.
Water recreation: The Missouri River and surrounding lakes provide multiple water activity options. "You can kayak, canoe, jet ski, and boat," at locations like Big Lake State Park Campground, though visitors should note that "it's only 30ft at the deepest point," making it suitable for beginners.
What campers like
Modern amenities: Duck Creek Recreation Area offers newer facilities with excellent site layouts. "The picnic tables, vault toilets, paved walking trails, playground equipment are all new and well laid out. Gravel slabs with electrical hookup are only $12 a night," mentions one reviewer who appreciated the value and accessibility features.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the region provide a peaceful environment away from crowds. "This park was a great place to head to and unplug for a weekend. We camped in the area without hookups, so we pretty much had that area to ourselves," reports a Waubonsie State Park visitor who enjoyed the solitude.
Lake views: Campers appreciate the water proximity at several locations. "Very relaxing time. Perfect view of the water," notes a Big Lake State Park visitor. Similarly, Duck Creek offers "a beautiful view of the lake and the miles of Peru bottoms around it" according to another camper.
What you should know
Weather impacts: The region experiences seasonal flooding that can affect campground conditions. At Brownville Riverside Park, one camper reported, "Unfortunately, the river has flooded it out as of June 28, 2024 and it will likely be unusable for at least the remainder of this season." Always check current conditions before planning a trip.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. For Rock Port RiversEdge, you'll find "30 & 50 amp hookups and water for a great price," but availability can be limited.
Wildlife concerns: Raccoons are particularly active in some areas. "There are signs in the bathrooms warning of the raccoons. These signs are not exaggerating. We had a raccoon at our campsite trying to steal our food while we were there, like the raccoon was less than 10 feet from humans during mid-day," warns a camper from Waubonsie State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Rock Port RiversEdge Campground provides facilities conveniently located off Highway 29, making it accessible for families seeking quick stops. The campground offers electrical hookups close to recreation areas.
Swimming options: Duck Creek offers swimming areas suitable for younger visitors. "We love Duck Creek! It has everything you would need in a campground! Excellent playgrounds for kids, swimming and beach area, bathrooms," shares a frequent visitor.
Spacing considerations: When camping with children, site layout matters. At Waubonsie, a reviewer notes, "The campsite was very nice. Not too expensive. The showers and bathrooms were nice and had decent room." However, another camper mentions, "The sites just are too close for me as a tent camper," suggesting families might want to book adjacent sites for more space.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most campgrounds in the area offer relatively flat sites. At Big Lake State Park, "Basic sites are large and some of the electric are also. The majority are pull through sites. Everything is fairly level," notes an RVer who appreciated the easy setup.
Utility access: For those seeking glamping close to Shubert, Nebraska with full hookups, options vary by location. "Many people come here daily during the pandemic to get exercise, to fish and enjoy the outdoors. There is room to keep up social distancing," notes a visitor to Duck Creek, where electrical hookups are available but water and sewer connections are limited.
Dump station logistics: Big Lake State Park's layout requires planning. "All roads are narrow one way with the dumpstation at the back end of park with trash dumpsters there. So on a sunday you will get stuck in the dumpstation line to drop off your trash even if you don't need to dump," warns a camper who experienced weekend congestion.
