Fishing, swimming, and trail access make Bader Memorial Park a multi-use municipal campground along the Platte River corridor near Chapman, Nebraska. Four ponds sit within the park boundaries, and the river itself is a short walk away via a trail that also leads to a dedicated bird-watching hut. Anglers can choose their water. The park runs full hookups including electric, water, and sewer, which makes it a reasonable overnight stop for RVs passing through central Nebraska.
Site selection matters here. Reviewers note that sites K, M, and N sit away from the busier areas of the park, while sites closer to the beach and playground tend to draw more activity, especially on weekends. The beach area includes volleyball nets and a playground, and it sees regular use during warmer months. Showers and restrooms are on-site and have drawn consistent positive comments about upkeep.
"You have the option to fish from 3 or 4 ponds plus the river is walking distance," notes reviewer Seth H. The park also has a bait shop at the entrance office alongside vending machines, which reduces the need to make a supply run before settling in. Campers interested in Tooley Park Campground or Pioneer Trails Recreation Area will find other options within roughly a dozen miles for those extending a trip through the region. Reservations are available, pets are welcome, and the park's range of water access gives it staying power beyond a single overnight.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBader Memorial Park is located in Nebraska near Marquette
Directions
From Central City go approx. 10 miles west-just before Chapman turn south on Bader Park Road for approximately 2 1/2 miles. From Interstate #80 take the Aurora Exit north on highway #14 until you come the the Marquette road, turn(left) on this paved road and stay on this paved road for approximately 10 miles. Bader park is shortly after the Platte River bridge on your left
Coordinates
40.98853602 N
98.14860218 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/24/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/22/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/9/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/24/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/22/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/9/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 18 min from Grand Island, NE
- 1 hr 21 min from Lincoln, NE
- 1 hr 57 min from Omaha, NE
- 2 hrs 49 min from Sioux City, IA










