When it comes to camping and outdoor adventure, Nebraska is one of the most underrated spots in the United States. Many travelers simply speed through on I-80. However, when you venture beyond the interstate, you’ll find a wealth of stunning outdoor landscapes that are perfect for Nebraska boondocking.
Pull your RV off the road in one of the national grasslands, or sleep next to stunning rock formations. Boondocking in Nebraska takes you to campsites tucked into the rolling hills or set on the banks of beautiful rivers and reservoirs.
Here are the best spots for boondocking in Nebraska.
Boondocking Sites in Nebraska
Cliffs Trailhead
The Cliffs Trailhead is one of the most picturesque spots for boondocking in Nebraska. A small collection of dispersed campsites overlooks a lovely rock cliff and a tree-covered bluff. There’s a large trail network nearby, so you may hear noise from ATVs on weekends. The Forest Service offers a vault toilet on-site for convenience. The small community of Chadron is also about 12 miles north.
Spotted Tail Trailhead
If you’re interested in hiking or mountain biking, pull your RV into one of the free campsites at the Spotted Tail Trailhead. From here, you can access the Pine Ridge Trail or the Spotted Tail Loop Trail, which are both open to hikers and non-motorized vehicles. From here, it’s a seven-mile drive to Chadron. This is a quieter alternative to the Cliffs Trailhead camping area.
Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest
Looking to go off the grid? Head straight to the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest. This remote landscape is a great spot for free camping in Nebraska. You can camp anywhere as long as you’re at least 100 feet from a water source. Make sure to contact the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Chadron to ask about any current fire restrictions as they can affect where you’re allowed to camp. Fill up your tank and your cupboards in the town of Valentine, which sits about 37 miles to the northeast.
Nebraska National Forest at Halsey
The Nebraska National Forest at Halsey is another spot with an array of free camping options. In this area, you can set up camp anywhere outside of a designated campground as long as you’re within 300 feet of a road. Check the Motor Vehicle Use Map to find local roads. Keep in mind that this is a popular deer-hunting area during rifle season. The nearest communities are Halsey and Thedford.
Bayard City Park
If you happen to be passing through the town of Bayard, you can camp for free for two nights at Bayard City Park. The park has three RV sites, each available on a first-come, first-served basis. A fee is charged for any night after the first two; you can pay at the city office.
Oliver Reservoir Recreation Area
Oliver Reservoir Recreation Area offers some of the most developed free campsites in Nebraska. Each one is flat and grassy with plenty of shade trees, and many sites sit directly on the water. At the reservoir, you’ll find a playground, trails for hiking and biking, and a large reservoir that’s open for fishing and boating. This is a convenient option if you’re traveling across the state on I-80, which is a short distance south. The town of Kimball is located about nine miles east.
Where to Boondock in Nebraska
- When you’re planning where to boondock in Nebraska, start with the national and state forests.
- National grasslands are another lovely option.
- State recreation areas also offer some Nebraska boondocking.
- There are a few city parks with free RV camping in Nebraska.
- It’s also possible to find free overnight RV parking at places like Walmart and Cracker Barrel.
Boondocking is a fantastic way to experience the surprisingly diverse landscapes of Nebraska. With an RV, you can pull into a beautiful campsite and be ready to enjoy the wilderness in minutes.
Don’t own an RV? You can always rent one through RVshare!
