Map showing campground location near North Platte, Nebraska

Camper submitted image from Sutherland State Rec Area

Sutherland State Rec Area

Sutherland State Recreation Area provides two distinct camping experiences along a reservoir formed by a hydroelectric dam. The south side features traditional electric sites with vault toilets, while a small road leads to the west side where campers can set up directly next to the water on scattered spots along the shoreline.

The lakeside camping draws visitors seeking proximity to the water. Some sites include picnic tables and fire rings, though others require campers to bring their own setup. A vault toilet serves the western loop. Reviewers note road noise from nearby highways and sounds from the power plant across the reservoir, factors that don't seem to deter those prioritizing waterfront access. Wind off the reservoir can pick up significantly, particularly in the evenings.

Registration occurs at the golf course clubhouse, which also serves local patrons. Electric sites run $30 per night, while tent sites cost $15, plus daily vehicle fees that vary by residency status. "I drove beyond the golf course campground & found a spot next to the lake that had a fire ring," notes one camper who appreciated the quick overnight option despite the ambient noise.

The campground accommodates both RVs and tent campers, with walk-in and hike-in access available for those preferring less developed areas. For additional camping options, explore places to camp around North Platte.

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Location

Public Campground

Sutherland State Rec Area is located in Nebraska

Coordinates

41.12600013 N
101.13700055 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 3/21/26
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 4 users
Last on 3/21/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 3/21/26
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 4 users
Last on 3/21/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

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

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Phone Service
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Pull-Through Sites

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

2 hrs 13 min from Grand Island, NE
2 hrs 39 min from Cheyenne, WY
2 hrs 59 min from Greeley, CO
3 hrs 18 min from Fort Collins, CO

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5 Stars

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1 Star

4.0

out of 5

5 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the affordable lakeside camping with good basic amenities and scenic water access. Some noted road and power plant noise, though most found it manageable for short stays.

Tarrah C.

Legend

Reviewed Apr. 30, 2024

Nice stop over spot

I entered the south side camping which is much like other sites with close camping, there is electric and a vault toilet. If a person follows the small road at the end of the south side camping it takes you to the west side camping which is random spots along the road to camp next to the water. Some have tables and fire rings other do not. There is a vault toilet at the end of the loop.

$30 for electric sites $7 daily vehicle fee for NE license $14 daily vehicle fee for non- NE $15 tent sites

Sitewest side loop

Month of VisitApril

(8) View All

Lori K.

Scout

Reviewed Oct. 9, 2020

Quiet Little Spot

I drove beyond the golf course campground & found a spot next to the lake that had a fire ring. The road & plant noise did not bother me. Great spot for a quick overnight stay.

Cari B.

Traveler

Reviewed Oct. 6, 2020

Nice stopover

Tent camped on the shore of the reservoir, this was a nice enough spot although a little noisy from the road and power station across the reservoir.

Akiva G.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 5, 2018

Nice campground on the Sutherland reservoir

Lots of RV sites but we were able to pitch our tent by the beach and there was plenty of space. Got super windy by the reservoir. The woman at the golf course clubhouse, which is also the front desk of the campground, let us cook dinner at the tables behind the clubhouse and use the outdoor bathrooms there.

Month of VisitJuly

Laura Jane L.

Scout

Reviewed Sep. 7, 2017

Great place to stop on an X-C road trip

I live in Denver. I sail in Maine and commute in my minimalist camper van. Returning West, I was tired and it was getting dark and a big storm was about to bust loose. I looked at my map and saw a patch of green with blue in the middle, right off the highway and headed for it. Sutherland Park State Recreation Area is on a lake formed by a dam with a small hydropower plant. There's a campground away from the water, but it was deserted and creeped me out. The other camping was by the lake. Nice breeze. $7/night. Pay at the bar/golf course club house serving the locals.

SiteOn the beach

Month of VisitJuly

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area?

Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area offers diverse camping options. The main area near the golf course features established RV sites with electrical hookups and vault toilets. For those seeking a more rustic experience, tent camping is available along the reservoir shoreline with beach access. The south side camping area has electrical hookups and vault toilets with sites positioned relatively close together. Following the small road at the end of the south side leads to west side camping, which consists of dispersed spots along the water's edge. Many lakeside sites include fire rings for a true outdoors experience.

What recreational activities can visitors enjoy at Sutherland Reservoir?

Sutherland Reservoir offers excellent recreational opportunities centered around its large water body. Sailing and boating are popular activities, with plenty of open water for enjoyment. The reservoir has beaches perfect for swimming during warmer months. Fishing is available for those looking to catch local species. For land-based recreation, the area includes a golf course adjacent to the campground. While enjoying these activities, visitors should be prepared for potentially windy conditions, as the reservoir area can experience significant breezes. The combination of water and land activities makes Sutherland an enjoyable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Where is Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area located and how do I get there?

Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area is conveniently located just off the highway in Nebraska, making it an accessible stop for travelers. The recreation area surrounds a large reservoir and is positioned near Sutherland, Nebraska. Access is straightforward – simply follow signs from the highway to the entrance. The campground's proximity to the main road makes it an ideal overnight stop for those traveling through the region. For precise directions from your starting point, use GPS navigation to Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area, Nebraska.

Are there any fees or permits required for camping at Sutherland Reservoir?

Yes, camping at Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area requires payment of fees. The campground is managed through the golf course clubhouse, which serves as the front desk for camping registration. While exact fee amounts aren't specified, expect to pay standard state recreation area camping rates. Remember to check in at the clubhouse upon arrival to register and pay for your site. For the most current fee information and reservation requirements, contact the recreation area directly before your visit.

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