Map showing campground location near Scribner, Nebraska

Camper submitted image from Dead Timber State Rec Area

Dead Timber State Rec Area

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Situated between an oxbow lake and the Elkhorn River near Scribner, Dead Timber State Recreation Area has a low-key layout that hasn't been heavily developed. Paved roads lead to the entrance, but everything inside is dirt and gravel. The campground has 17 electric sites with 30-amp hookups on gravel or grass pads, plus four primitive tent sites on a mowed stretch along the lake. Sites are well-spaced, and the area typically sees light use except around Halloween, when a decorating contest draws a full house.

Water access is a notable limitation here. The only water hydrant on-site appears to be reserved for campground hosts, so arriving with a full tank is the practical move. Vault toilets are available, but there are no showers, 50-amp hookups, or dump stations. The oxbow lake draws kayakers and anglers, and wildlife sightings in the surrounding area are common. Cell coverage exists on at least one major carrier, though one camper found it insufficient for streaming without a booster, and most sites have open sky for Starlink.

"Appears to be a quiet retreat with minimal campers," notes Kyla B., and that holds outside of peak weekends. Road noise and train noise are largely absent, which sets it apart from a number of other Nebraska recreation areas. Campers who want a low-effort overnight with electric hookups and lake access, without a lot of infrastructure, will find Dead Timber a practical fit. Nearby alternatives include Neligh Park Campground to the north and Dodge County Fairgrounds to the south for different setups.

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Map & DirectionsDead Timber State Rec Area is located in Nebraska near Scribner

Public Campground

Directions

From Scribner: Go 4 miles north on Hwy #275, then 1.5 miles east, then .5 miles south into the area. From West Point: Go 7 miles south on Hwy #275, then 1.5 miles east, then .5 miles south into the area.

Address

227 CR and 12 Blvd
Scribner, NE 68057

Coordinates

41.71700078 N
96.69200067 W

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Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-MobileLTE
Some Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-MobileLTE
Some Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

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

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Dispersed

Features

For Campers

Phone Service
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

30 Amp Hookups
Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

49 min from Omaha, NE
1 hr 7 min from Sioux City, IA
1 hr 14 min from Lincoln, NE
1 hr 57 min from Grand Island, NE

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Dead Timber State Rec Area

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out of 5

4 Reviews

William S.

Traveler

Reviewed May. 9, 2026

Quiet Out of the Way Rec Area

Dead Timber is a quiet and fairly out of the way, yet still accessible state recreation area. It is an hour or so, depending on how you drive, from Omaha, near Scribner, Nebraska. The roads from the highway are paved up to the entrance, but the rec area is all dirt/gravel. The area has not been "upgraded" like so many of the state recreation areas have in the past few years and it feels like a good thing.

There is a small oxbow lake that all of the campsites, both electric (17) and primitive (4), are on one side of it. Unlike so many Nebraska recreation areas you will not typically hear trains or road noise, another good thing. A cell signal was present for me on Verizon, but insufficient for streaming without a booster. Tree coverage varies within the small camping area, but most sites will have enough of an open view of the sky for Starlink.

Dead Timber is my normal go to spot when I need a quick camping trip that is relaxing and not challenging. Or if I have a piece of equipment that I want to test the functionality of. I have camped here in summer (hot muggy a bit buggy), fall (generally my favorite especially in October), and winter (about what you would expect) and aside from Halloween it has usually been very open. Halloween there was a decorating contest and the place was completely full. The pictures I am including are from my mid October 2025, trip. In February there were no leaves and the lake was frozen but those were the only real differences since there is no running water in the camping area.

Site17

Month of VisitOctober

Sean J.

Guide

Reviewed May. 1, 2026

Peaceful RV Spot

Dead Timber SRA is located between an oxbow lake and the Elkhorn River. It has a small number of both 30 amp electric RV pads along with basic tent camping spots. RV pads are either gravel or grass, while tent camping sites are located on a mowed area along the lake. Plenty of space between sites.

The area is peaceful and seems like a bit of a a hidden gem not too far from Lincoln, Columbus or Fremont. The lake is nice for kayaking and fishing, plus there is a lot of wildlife to view in the area.

Vault toilets are available, but there are no shower facilities, 50 amp hookups, or dump stations. The only water hydrant I could find seemed to be in use by the campground hosts, so plan on filling your water tank somewhere before arriving.

Site14

Month of VisitMay

(4) View All

Kyla B.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 21, 2024

Quiet retreat

There are areas dedicated for daily use, primitive camping and electric sites. Great Lake for kayaking or a small jon boat. Has restrooms available, no showers. No dumpsite. Fire pit and picnic table available at sites.

Appears to be a quiet retreat with minimal campers.

Siten/a

Month of VisitJuly

Rhonda M.

Traveler

Reviewed Jun. 10, 2018

Nice campsite

Fishing swimming bozting

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Dead Timber State Recreation Area?

Dead Timber State Recreation Area offers a variety of camping options to suit different preferences. The campground features both primitive camping sites and sites with electrical hookups. Each site comes equipped with a fire pit and picnic table. Restroom facilities are available throughout the recreation area, though there are no shower facilities. The campground does not have a dump station for RVs. The area appears to be relatively uncrowded, making it an ideal spot for campers seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.

Are there good fishing opportunities at Dead Timber State Recreation Area?

Fishing is one of the primary attractions at Dead Timber State Recreation Area. The lake provides good opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The water body is well-suited for fishing from the shoreline or from small watercraft like kayaks and jon boats. Swimming is also available for visitors looking to cool off. For the best fishing experience, consider bringing light tackle suitable for freshwater species common to Nebraska lakes.

What do visitor reviews say about Dead Timber State Recreation Area?

Visitors consistently rate Dead Timber State Recreation Area highly for its peaceful atmosphere and minimal crowds, making it an excellent choice for those seeking tranquility. The lake receives positive mentions for kayaking, boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. Campers appreciate the availability of both primitive and electric sites, along with the basic amenities like fire pits and picnic tables at each site. The recreation area's restroom facilities are noted as adequate, though the absence of showers and a dump station may be considerations for some campers. Overall, Dead Timber is characterized as a quiet retreat that offers a genuine connection with nature.

What does Dead Timber State Recreation Area look like?

Dead Timber State Recreation Area features a serene lake surrounded by natural landscapes. The campground is nestled within this setting, offering a tranquil retreat from busy city life. The area has designated spaces for camping and daily use activities separated for convenience. The lake is appropriately sized for kayaking and small boats, creating picturesque water views. Camping sites are situated to take advantage of the natural surroundings, with space between sites for privacy. The overall atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers.

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