Drive-in access and a dispersed layout define Phillips Lake State Recreation Area, a Nebraska Game and Parks-managed site outside Elwood in the south-central part of the state. No designated sites means campers choose their own footprint. Johnson Lake State Recreation Area sits roughly three miles west, offering a more developed alternative if hookups or structured amenities are a priority. Dispersed camping here suits self-sufficient campers who carry their own water and gear.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsPhillips Lake State Recreation Area is located in Nebraska near Elwood
Coordinates
40.6859417 N
99.77756342 W
Connectivity
T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 8/4/26- VerizonLTESome CoverageLast on 5/27/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 8/4/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageLast on 5/27/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Features
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 Phillips Lake State Recreation Area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 16 min from Grand Island, NE
- 2 hrs 20 min from Lincoln, NE
- 2 hrs 57 min from Omaha, NE
- 4 hrs 9 min from Manhattan, KS
