Bass fishing draws anglers to Swanson Reservoir State Recreation Area, where campers can access the lake directly from their sites. The campground provides electric hookups for RVs along with shower facilities and a dump station for extended stays. Sites operate seasonally from May through September under state park management.
One reviewer noted catching bass from the small lake during an overnight stop, describing it as suitable for brief camping trips. For campers seeking additional options in the region, Macklin Bay Campground sits less than a mile east within the same recreation area.
Description
Tent camping
An additional 150 or so primitive sites are available on the sandy beach surrounding the lake. Camping areas include Trail 3, Trail 4 and Trail 7. The beaches are kept well-groomed, a sand volleyball court is also available. Two dump stations are on site, and firewood is provided.
Swanson Reservoir State Recreation Area offers 64 camping pads with 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups spread over two campgrounds. Seventeen are at Macklin Bay campground and 47 are located at Spring Canyon campground. Both campgrounds offer modern restrooms and showers. Two dump stations are on site, and firewood is provided.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundSwanson Reservoir State Rec Area is located in Nebraska
Directions
Located 3 miles southwest of Trenton. Nearest highway U.S. 34.
Coordinates
40.17100013 N
101.10900067 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/25/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/25/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 46 min from Grand Island, NE
- 3 hrs 15 min from Greeley, CO
- 3 hrs 22 min from Denver, CO
- 3 hrs 47 min from Cheyenne, WY





