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Dispersed Camping

Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area

Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area, near Kearney, Nebraska, is a straightforward spot for those looking to pull off the road and catch some rest. It’s a no-frills location with no facilities, making it perfect for a quick overnight stay while traveling.

This area is right next to the interstate, so you can expect some highway noise, especially at night. Visitors have mentioned that it’s a decent place to sleep, especially if you’re just passing through, with a flat, established dirt road and multiple pull-offs for parking. As one camper noted, “Great overnight spot! Such a nice surprise to come across this camping spot.”

If you’re into fishing or hiking, you’ll find some beautiful trails nearby, although the proximity to the highway can be a downside for those seeking peace and quiet. The wildlife area is also a popular spot for hunters, so keep that in mind if you’re planning a visit.

While there are no amenities like water or restrooms, the location is free and doesn’t require a permit, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Just be prepared for a bit of nature—some campers have reported waking up to a few critters around their tents. If you’re looking for a simple place to crash while on the road, Bassway Strip might just fit the bill.

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Location

Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area is located in Nebraska

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

40.68400079 N
98.95200036 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Fair
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Pets

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area needs a permit.

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


Reviews

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3.0

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6 Reviews

Reviewed Feb. 22, 2024

Does the job but not nice.

Like others have said, it’s right next to the interstate so you hear traffic and truckers all night. I spent 2 nights here in February in a tent. It wasn’t nice but it was a place to sleep while in town for a class.

Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area by John D., February 22, 2024
Reviewed Aug. 14, 2022

Convenient gravel lot off 80

Good for pulling off into while on a road trip. There's a road sign that marks it (not in the exact spot shown on map here). No facilities but less than 10 miles from the next rest stop. No one here on a busy travel Saturday when the rest stops were busy.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area by Scout G., August 14, 2022
Reviewed Jun. 4, 2021

Nice location if you want to hike or fish

This is a general parking area for folks that want to fish, or use the beautiful, paved and lit hiking trail. However, it is close to I-80, so traffic noise is bad at night.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed May. 16, 2021

Great overnight spot!

Free. No facilities. Flat, established, wide dirt road. Multiple pull offs for camping, mostly flat. Cross a bridge to get there - dual axel limit 10 Tons. Trailer limit 23 Tons. Next to I-80 so some highway drone. Max of 3 days in 6 day period.

Great overnight spot! Such a nice surprise to come across this camping spot. Thank you!

(Photo is our vehicle parked for the night)

  • Review photo of Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area by Frana B., May 16, 2021
Reviewed Apr. 12, 2021

Beware of Possum

Basic primitive campsites along a gravel road, no fires, can stay up to 3 nights max, and is about 200 yard from the interstate. So I wouldn't recommend this spot if the highway noise bothers you.

A fat possum waddled up to me when I was setting up my tent in the dark since I pulled up to this spot late at night. He didn't bother me when I was sleeping but gave me a good scare. Saw him walking around again a bit later so it presumably lives there.

  • Review photo of Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area by Bohdan T., April 12, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is there cell phone reception at Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is fair, and T-Mobile is available.