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Dispersed Camping

Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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

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Site Types

  • RV Sites
  • 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

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Reviews

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9 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 31, 2025

Decent spots, but quite buggy, and next to the interstate

It was a great spot in a pinch with very few people there, but the mosquitos were bad, at least in late July. The interstate is right next to the area so it can be pretty loud with the semi’s. Overall it was secluded and shaded with flat spots to camp so cant complain too much.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 26, 2025

It was fine for a night

We camped here on a rainy night when we didnt want to pay the out of state fees for a campground we would only park in. Camped on the side of the road on the side of the river opposite the highway. Between the rain and the fan, we never heard the highway. And the fireflies were awesome, even in the rain!

Siten/a
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Apr. 5, 2025

Camping

It is what it is you need it and just pull offs but they're right next to the highway so hopefully traffic doesn't bother you

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Bassway Strip State Wildlife Area by Dennis N., April 5, 2025
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

Where is Bassway Strip WMA located in Nebraska?

Bassway Strip Wildlife Management Area is located directly adjacent to Interstate 80 in central Nebraska. The area features a gravel road with multiple pull-offs for camping. It's situated alongside a river, with access via a bridge that has weight restrictions (10-ton limit for dual axle vehicles and 23-ton limit for trailers). The location is convenient for travelers, being less than 10 miles from the next highway rest stop.

What fishing opportunities are available at Bassway Strip?

Bassway Strip offers riverside fishing access, making it a popular spot for anglers. The area serves as a general parking area for those wanting to fish along the river. While specific fish species aren't detailed, the waterway provides enough fishing opportunities to attract regular visitors. The site's primary purpose is to support outdoor recreation activities including fishing and hunting.

Are camping permits required for Bassway Strip WMA?

No permits are required for camping at Bassway Strip WMA. Camping is free but comes with restrictions. There's a maximum stay limit of 3 nights within any 6-day period. Fires are not permitted in the camping area. Since this is a wildlife management area primarily designed for hunting and fishing access, camping is a secondary use with minimal regulations beyond the stay limits.

What is the best time of year to visit Bassway Strip in Nebraska?

The best time to visit Bassway Strip is likely spring through early summer when temperatures are moderate and before mosquito populations peak. Late July tends to have significant mosquito activity. Summer evenings offer impressive firefly displays, adding to the natural ambiance. Fall may provide a good balance of comfortable temperatures and fewer insects. Winter camping is possible but can be challenging due to cold temperatures. Consider avoiding peak summer months unless you're prepared for insects and heat.