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Memphis Lake State Rec Area

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Memphis Lake State Recreation Area, near Ashland, Nebraska, is a straightforward campground that caters to those looking for a simple outdoor experience. With sites that allow for tent, RV, and cabin camping, it’s a practical choice for a variety of campers.

The campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to a small, stocked fishing lake, making it a nice spot for anglers and families alike. Many visitors have enjoyed the mature trees providing shade and the picnic tables and fire rings at each site, perfect for evening gatherings. One camper noted, “This is such a nice and clean campground!”

While there are no showers and the bathrooms could use some attention, the overall vibe is relaxed, and the quiet hours are respected. If you’re into kayaking or canoeing, the no-wake zone on the lake is ideal for paddling around and soaking in the scenery.

For those passing through, it’s a convenient stop off I-80, with a first-come, first-served setup that keeps things easygoing. Plus, there’s a bar nearby for those looking to grab a bite or a drink after a day of fishing or exploring. Whether you’re just stopping for a night or planning a longer stay, Memphis Lake offers a laid-back camping experience that many have come to appreciate.

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Location

Memphis Lake State Rec Area is located in Nebraska

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Lincoln, go north on hwy 77 to hwy 63 (located between Ceresco and Wahoo). Take hwy 63 east to Memphis and go through Memphis to park and watch signs. From Omaha, go west on interstate 80 to the Greenwood Interchange, then north on hwy 63 to hwy 6, east on hwy 6/63 to Ashland, and north on hwy 63 to Memphis. Go through Memphis and watch for signs to the park.

Coordinates

41.10245945418461 N
96.44235388714077 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent 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
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

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

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites

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Reviews

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5 Stars

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1 Star

37%
46%
19%
0%
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4.0

out of 5

11 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 17, 2024

Nice simple campground

Don’t forget the day use fee it’s $14 a day for out of state and seven dollars in state A decent number of mosquitoes on my visit in July in the evening

Site5
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 26, 2022

Sweet utility-camping while traversing I-80

We like a primitive camp with pit toilets and basic water. This camp was a great stop off of I-80, further out than the closer in crowded RV parks. First come first serve, it was 10% full on the last Thursday in June. Great little stocked fishing lake with sites all fairly close to the long northern shore of the lake. Redwing blackbirds, geese, and lightning bugs tucked in between the corn fields. We camped in #19 which was in a dark spot between the bright peach streetlights on either end of the campground. Much better than we expected to find for just a utility stop. Highly recommended! Memphis sleepy little prosperous town, Ashland bigger with sweet downtown area

Site#19
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Apr. 27, 2021

Such a nice and relaxing weekend!

This is such a nice and clean campground!  There were lots of mature trees to camp under, and we were also close to the water.  Our campsite came with a picnic table and fire ring.  We went on a nice weekend the first of April so it was "off season". The price was $10 a night.  The game warden drove around often checking to see if anyone needed anything and people were following the rules.  The reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because there weren't any scenic walking trails that I found, but there was fishing and a small playground if you have children.  Overall we will definitely return!

Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Apr. 21, 2021

Small lake

We camped in the primitive area which is provided a picnic table and fire ring. There is an area that they are cutting trees down I'm guessing to make more camp spots. Prices vary by where you camp at.

Reviewed Sep. 16, 2020

Camping Right on the Lake

It is a nice spot a bit off of the main roads. Many of the tent sites allow you to camp right next to the lake. It's generally pretty quiet and people respect the 10 pm quiet hours rule. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring.

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Aug. 3, 2020

Peace and quiet

This lake has great fishing and has peace, and quiet. The lake is a no wake zone, so kayaks, and canoes are great. The campsites have plenty of shade, and a few electrical hook ups. The bathrooms could use a upgrade or a good cleaning, and the one by are site was locked up and not open. There is geese feces through out the park. There is also a bar or concession near the entrance of the park. They sell bait, ice, and I believe canoe rentals there.

  • Review photo of Memphis Lake State Rec Area by Tony B., August 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Memphis Lake State Rec Area by Tony B., August 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Memphis Lake State Rec Area by Tony B., August 3, 2020
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Sep. 3, 2019

One of my favorites

Tent camping sites. No electrical hookups but you can still camp in campers if you want. Beautiful Campground with lots of trees and shade. Very nice Lake with fishing available. There appears to be an option for canoe rentals available. Boat ramp and dock. Multiple bathroom locations within the campground. Picnic tables near the water. I’ve kayaked the lake! So much fun.

Reviewed Jul. 31, 2019

Scenic spot

Scenic lakeside campsites. A great time. Upkeep could be better as dumpsters were overflowing however.

Reviewed May. 31, 2019

My favorite

If you want to get away in Nebraska, this is the place. There’s no electricity or running water. The outhouses are kinda gross. There’s an awesome bar right outside the park, too.

  • Review photo of Memphis Lake State Rec Area by Jordan H., May 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Memphis Lake State Rec Area by Jordan H., May 31, 2019
Reviewed May. 4, 2019

Nice spring night!

We really enjoyed taking our boys out to Memphis SRA for a quick overnight camp. We are still in the middle of some bird migrations, so the geese we really loud but that is just due time of year. The boys did some fishing, but nothing was biting when we were there. The one big downfall is the number of trailers there running their generators. That did get annoying at night, but overall we will be back!

  • Review photo of Memphis Lake State Rec Area by Pat V., May 4, 2019
  • Review photo of Memphis Lake State Rec Area by Pat V., May 4, 2019
Reviewed Jul. 30, 2016

Perfectly Primitive

this place is awesome for people who enjoy camping next to a lake, but also dont mind the lack of ammenities. This place offers primitive camping, there are not really set camp grounds, it seemed like a free for all for which beautiful shade tree you want to camp under. Water, vault toilets and a dump station is available. There is also a fun and safe play ground for the young ones to burn some energy on.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Memphis State Recreation Area?

Memphis State Recreation Area offers primitive camping with no electricity or running water in most areas. Campsites aren't formally designated - you can choose your spot under the mature shade trees. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. The area has vault toilets (outhouses) and basic water access. There are a few electrical hookups available for RVs, though most sites are primitive. Camping fees vary by location, with primitive sites costing around $10 per night during off-season. Be aware there's also a day use fee ($7 for in-state and $14 for out-of-state visitors).

What fishing opportunities are available at Memphis Lake in Nebraska?

Memphis Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities in a peaceful environment. The lake is stocked and provides good catches for anglers. It's a no-wake zone, making it perfect for fishing from kayaks and canoes. The lake features a boat ramp and dock for easy access. While specific fish species aren't detailed, it's known as a good fishing spot that attracts many visitors specifically for this activity. Shoreline fishing is also popular, as many campsites are located right next to the water, allowing for convenient fishing directly from your campsite.

Are there photo galleries available to preview Memphis State Recreation Area?

While there isn't a dedicated photo gallery mentioned specifically for Memphis State Recreation Area, the best way to preview the campground is by checking the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission official website, which typically features photos of their recreation areas. You can also find user-submitted photos on camping apps and outdoor recreation websites. The recreation area features a scenic lake, wooded camping areas with mature trees, and natural surroundings that make for beautiful photography opportunities.

How do visitors rate Memphis State Recreation Area and what are common reviews?

Memphis State Recreation Area generally receives positive ratings, with many visitors giving it 4-5 stars. Campers appreciate the peaceful, quiet atmosphere and the beautiful lakeside setting with abundant shade trees. The primitive nature of the campground appeals to those looking to escape more developed areas. Common themes include enjoyment of the fishing opportunities, appreciation for the picnic tables and fire rings at each site, and the family-friendly environment. Some visitors note that bathroom facilities could use improvement, and occasionally trash management has been an issue.

How do I get to Memphis State Recreation Area from nearby cities?

Memphis State Recreation Area is located a bit off the main roads in Nebraska, making it a quieter destination. It's accessible from Interstate 80, serving as a good stop for travelers along this route. The recreation area is situated near the small town of Memphis, Nebraska. While not directly on major highways, it's still reasonably accessible from Lincoln and Omaha. For specific directions from your starting point, it's best to use GPS navigation or check with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for the most accurate routing information.