Primitive Camping In Nebraska: 10 Best Dispersed Campgrounds
Camping in Nebraska is one of the single best ways to experience our state’s breathtaking natural landscape. There’s something to be said for modern RV parks and campgrounds where you can stay in your own space and watch your favorite movies after the sun goes down. But for the real nature-loving camper, there’s nothing like a tent, a campfire, the outdoors, and basically nothing else. The following is a list of places for primitive camping in Nebraska where you can truly reconnect with nature. These campgrounds offer some of the best camping sites in the state.
1. Victoria Springs State Recreation Area
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Victoria Springs offers 60 non-pad camping sites without electricity. Learn more information when you check out the official Victoria Springs website.
2. Lake McConaughy, Keith County
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Check out this list of primitive campsites at Lake McConaughy.
3. Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area, Near Loup City, Sherman County
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There are 360 non-pad camping sites here with no electricity, so you can pretty much choose the spot that suits you and plant your stakes. Learn more information about Sherman Reservoir.
4. Indian Cave State Park, near Brownville, Nemaha County
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There are many primitive camping spots here, and even if you forget your tent you can spend a night in one of the bare-bones Adirondack shelters. Find out more information about Indian Cave State Park.
5. Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing, Bayard, Morrill County
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The site offers tent camping, or you can stay in one of the teepees, designed and painted by the owners, for a truly unique experience. Learn more about booking your reservation at this primitive Nebraska campground.
6. Ponca State Park, near Ponca, Dixon County
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The park has 75 primitive sites; head to the website for a campground map and more information.
7. Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area, near McCook, Red Willow County
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Red Willow has 100 non-pad camping sites throughout; get more information when you visit the Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area website.
8. Nebraska National Forest, Bessey Recreation Complex, Halsey; Blaine and Thomas Counties
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There are several tent-only campsites here to please the dedicated rustic camper. Find out more about the facilities here.
9. Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, Minatare, Scotts Bluff County
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There are more than 150 undesignated primitive camping sites spread throughout the recreation area, so take your pick. Learn more about visiting Lake Minatare State Recreation Area.
10. Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area, near Valentine, Cherry County
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Primitive camping sites are scattered throughout the park. For more information and downloadable campsite maps, check out the official Outdoor Nebraska website.
Are you a primitive camper or do you prefer to have all of the modern conveniences when you go camping? If you don’t see your favorite campground on this list, check out our previous list of 15 excellent campgrounds. And be sure to let us know about some of your favorite places for primitive camping in Nebraska. Also, be sure to download AllTrails Plus before you head out to a dispersed campsite. That way, you’ll be able to navigate the parks and trails with downloadable maps – even when you don’t have cell service.
Or, if you’re someone who prefers a few more creature comforts while they camp, be sure to check out this must-visit glampground in Nebraska.
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More to Explore
Primitive Camping In Nebraska
What are the best state parks to visit in Nebraska?
Nebraska is brimming with gorgeous state parks, showcasing the state's most spectacular landscapes. Some of our top recommendations for the best state parks to visit in Nebraska include:
- Chadron State Park -- located within the borders of the Nebraska National Forest
- Eugene T. Mahoney State Park -- the second-most visited attraction in all of Nebraska
- Fort Robinson State Park -- a former U.S. Army fort that showcases much of Nebraska's history
- Indian Cave State Park -- containing a prehistoric cave with petroglyphs that date back thousands of years
- Niobrara State Park -- filled with great hikes and horseback trails
- Platte River State Park -- with cabins available for rent
- Ponca State Park -- located in northeastern Nebraska and showcases views of Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota
- Smith Falls State Park -- tucked away in the stunning Sand Hills region of Nebraska
How many of these fantastic parks have you visited? Learn more about what makes each of these Nebraska State Parks so bucket-list-worthy. You'll be planning your visit in no time!