Map showing campground location near Fairbury, Nebraska

Camper submitted image from Lone Star Rec Area

Lone Star Rec Area

The Little Blue Natural Resources District manages Lone Star Recreation Area, a county-operated campground that draws visitors primarily for its lake access and fishing opportunities. Located in Tobias, Nebraska, the facility accommodates both RV campers with electrical hookups and tent campers who can set up at no cost anywhere on the grounds.

The campground divides into sections, with the lower area positioned closest to the water offering lake views. A boat ramp provides direct access for launching watercraft, though the lake operates under no-wake restrictions that favor kayaking and canoeing over motorboating. Multiple covered pavilion areas serve group gatherings, while a playground and designated beach area cater to families. Primitive restrooms are available on-site, but campers needing dump station services must travel approximately six miles north to Milligan.

Occupancy patterns vary significantly by season and local events. Matt H. found the camp host "very friendly" and discovered tent camping requires "zero cost." Late fall and early spring typically see lighter crowds, while mid-July brings increased activity during Milligan Days celebrations. Day-use visitors frequently arrive for kayaking and fishing activities.

The nearest full-service town lies southeast, where campers can find campgrounds near Fairbury for alternative accommodation options. This setup works well for anglers and paddlers seeking direct water access with basic amenities rather than extensive facilities.

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Location

Public Campground

Lone Star Rec Area is located in Nebraska

Coordinates

40.41500059 N
97.38100028 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 6 users
Last on 4/20/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 6 users
Last on 4/20/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Market
ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Phone Service
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr from Lincoln, NE
1 hr 17 min from Grand Island, NE
1 hr 36 min from Omaha, NE
1 hr 57 min from Manhattan, KS

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.0

out of 5

5 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and good facilities including playground, beach, and boat ramp. Free tent camping and friendly hosts were highlights, though visitors should plan for a 6-mile trip to dump station.

Dana T.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 23, 2024

Nice Park

I'm not a glamper, thus I don't expect much, but Lone Star is a really nice place to take a family. A cowboy would like it too. Good facilities, swimming, and a nice lake to fish.

SitePassing through, will be back to stay.

Month of VisitJuly

(12) View All

Kristen A.

Scout

Reviewed Jul. 17, 2024

Great location

Camped here over the Fourth of July weekend and was surprised that it was only about 3/4 of the way full. Quite a bit of day use Traffic with people kayaking and fishing, but remained peaceful and relaxing place.

Site4

Month of VisitJuly

Matt H.

Guide

Reviewed May. 22, 2021

Quiet and Free! (for tents)

Change of plans last minute for my little brothers birthday brought us here. At first we couldn't figure out where to set up camp so we asked the camp host who was very friendly. Turns out that you can set up a tent basically anywhere and there's zero cost to tent camp, no fees what so ever!

Month of VisitMay

A H.

Guide

Reviewed Apr. 2, 2021

Great fishing and quiet camp ground

My dad and I have camped at Lone Star many times. Usually we have the place to ourselves in late fall or early spring. It's peaceful and quiet out there. Great place for kayak fishing. The town of Milligan nearby is really cute. Avoid mid July if you don't want a crowd . That's when they have Milligan Days.

Kenny M.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 5, 2019

Quiet and peaceful

We had a quiet weekend, though the camp was less than half full. Electrical hookups and tent camping are available. We stayed in the bottom section, close to water, the view was very nice. They have a playground and beach area, primitive restrooms, boat ramp, and at least two covered areas for gatherings. There is no dump station, the nearest one is about 6 miles North at Milligan at a gas station along highway 41. No wake boating, but kayaking/canoeing the lake is the best way to see and fish this lake. Check out web site here http://littlebluenrd.org/recreation/#Lone_Star.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Lone Star Recreation Area in Nebraska?

Lone Star Recreation Area offers diverse camping options to suit different preferences. The campground features electrical hookups for RVs and designated areas for tent camping. Tent camping is free, with no fees required, and campers can set up virtually anywhere on the grounds. Facilities include primitive restrooms, a boat ramp for water access, and multiple covered areas for gatherings. The lower section of the campground provides waterfront sites with nice views of the lake. There's also a playground and beach area for family enjoyment. The campground typically doesn't reach full capacity except during special events, such as celebrations in nearby Milligan, making it a reliably available option.

Where is Lone Star Lake located in Nebraska and how do I get there?

Lone Star Lake is located near the small town of Milligan in Nebraska. The recreation area is situated in a quiet rural setting that offers peaceful surroundings, especially during off-peak seasons. While specific directions aren't detailed, visitors can find the lake by heading to Milligan and following local signage to the recreation area. The small-town proximity means basic supplies are available nearby if needed. For precise directions, it's recommended to use GPS coordinates or contact local authorities before your trip.

What recreational activities can visitors enjoy at Lone Star Recreation Area?

Lone Star Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. The lake is perfect for kayak fishing, with many visitors enjoying peaceful time on the water. Swimming is popular at the designated beach area, especially during summer months. Day use visitors frequently come for fishing, making it a great spot for anglers. The recreation area also features a playground for children and covered gathering areas for picnics or family events. The peaceful environment makes it ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature, particularly during off-peak seasons when crowds are smaller.

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