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Map showing campground location near Valentine, Nebraska
Camper submitted image from Samuel R. McKelvie National ForestView 6 Photos
RoadsMap showing campground location near Valentine, Nebraska

Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Accessing Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest requires planning, since some routes shown on mapping apps lead to unmaintained grass trails rather than paved roads, making higher-clearance vehicles a practical choice. The forest sits within Nebraska's Sandhills region, where pine canopy covers the Steer Creek Campground area on the west side, while much of the surrounding land is open prairie suited to off-trail hiking. Dispersed camping follows standard USFS guidelines; established sites include picnic tables and fire pits. Hunters use the area regularly, so bright orange clothing is worth packing during fall visits. Drinking water, toilets, firewood, and cell service are listed amenities, though at least one reviewer found no amenities at a dispersed spot reached by grass trail. Campers who want places to camp near Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest have options in the surrounding region as well.

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Map & DirectionsSamuel R. McKelvie National Forest is located in Nebraska near Valentine

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

42.71900007 N
101.02480082 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    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
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest

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3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 7, 2023

MUST HAVE 4WD For this site!

We went WELL off the beaten path. Not far into the national forest, Google maps showed a road leading to a river. The "road" is a grass trail. Not very hard, but definitely want a vehicle that isn't low to the ground to avoid bottoming out. Went about 3-5 mph for maybe 10 minuts, didn't make it to the river but found a beautiful succeeded spit by a pond. Not something I would swim in but my dog had a blast, and the views were beautiful. No fire, no water, no amenities at all. Just good Ole country camping!

SiteOff Merrit Dam Rd. first unmarked road. to the right.
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Oct. 5, 2021

Great western Nebraska camping

While it's technically National Forest land, most is Sandhills prairie which is awesome for off-trail hiking and exploring. You can do free dispersed camping according to USFS guidelines, or camp at the Steer Creek campground on the west side of the National Forest which is under pine tree canopy. Do exercise caution by wearing bright orange when hiking there, as it's a popular destination for hunters.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest by Katharine H., October 5, 2021
  • Review photo of Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest by Katharine H., October 5, 2021
  • Review photo of Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest by Katharine H., October 5, 2021
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Oct. 5, 2020

Awesome camping!

A little confusing finding camp grounds because it seems some are dispersed. However, the close sites were nice and had a ton of animals nearby. Aside from the animals, it was quiet and pretty. Had a picnic table and fire pit at each site.

Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an inReach device when camping in Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest?

While not absolutely required, an inReach or similar satellite communication device is highly recommended when camping in Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest. The area is remote with limited cell service, especially if you venture into the dispersed camping areas or go off-trail hiking in the Sandhills prairie. Having a satellite communication device provides peace of mind and emergency contact capabilities in this isolated region, particularly if you plan to explore the more secluded parts of the forest or venture down unmarked trails.

Where can I find camping in Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest?

Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest offers two main camping options. You can stay at Steer Creek campground on the west side of the forest, which features pine tree canopy for shade and provides basic amenities like picnic tables and fire pits at each site. Alternatively, free dispersed camping is permitted throughout the forest according to US Forest Service guidelines. Some dispersed sites can be confusing to locate, so be prepared to explore. Both options put you close to wildlife viewing opportunities and the unique Sandhills prairie landscape.

Are there any photos available of Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest?

Photos of Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest can be found on the USDA Forest Service website, social media platforms like Instagram using relevant hashtags, and various Nebraska tourism websites. These images typically showcase the unique Sandhills prairie landscape, pine tree sections, wildlife, and camping areas. For the most current and comprehensive collection of photos, check the official Nebraska National Forests & Grasslands website or contact the ranger district office directly.

What is the nearest city to Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest?

Valentine, Nebraska is the nearest significant town to Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest. It serves as a good supply point before heading into the more remote forest area. The forest itself is situated in the Nebraska Sandhills region, with smaller communities nearby. If planning a visit, stock up on supplies in Valentine as services are limited once you enter the forest.

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