Camping near North Platte with campfires

With its tallgrass prairies and sandhills, North Platte still feels like a wild frontier.

99% (51 reviews)

United States
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Nebraska
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North Platte

99% (51 reviews)

Popular camping styles for North Platte

2 top campgrounds near North Platte with campfires

99%

(51)

Lake Mac Camping

7 sites · RVs, Tents146 acres · Keystone, NE

Secluded river front camping 6 miles from Lake Mac. On the banks of the North Platte River enjoy private campsites away from the crowds and busy campgrounds. The river allows for various recreational activities. Bring your kayak, canoe or fishing gear. Enjoy starry nights under a clear sky and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. You pick your view, we can offer riverside or pasture locations. Whether you like to be right off the main gravel road, or down the path less taken, we've got an option for you.

100%

(2)

Smilin’ Ranch Co

12 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Gothenburg, NE

Here at Smilin’ Ranch Company we have beautiful river ground to set up camp any day of the week. We have beautiful views of the South Cedar Hills and sunsets that will take your breath away. We have fishing nearby as well as ranch activities that you can partake in on a scheduled basis. Located on about 300 acres we have plenty of opportunity for great camping!

Camping near North Platte with campfires guide

Overview

Tallgrass prairies, sand dunes, and refreshing reservoirs surround North Platte. It's no wonder Buffalo Bill called this Nebraska paradise home. The wide open spaces are a haven for horseback riding and mountain biking. For paddling and water adventures, the Platte River is a must-visit. Where else can you float downriver in a cattle tank?

For a taste of the town's heritage, stop by Buffalo Bill Ranch State Park. It's located right in the suburbs of North Platte. Wild West fans get stoked about touring the old ranch home and buildings that once belonged to the icon himself.

To cool off during a sizzling Nebraska summer day, head to Lake Maloney. Located just 6 miles south of North Platte, this reservoir boasts lakeside campgrounds and top-notch grilling and picnicking areas. While you're here, play a game on the disc golf course, or take advantage of some of the region's best walleye fishing.

Sutherland State Recreation Area is another popular spot, with easy access right off I-80. The 3,000 surface acre Sutherland Reservoir is great for boating, fishing, or wakeboarding. If you're traveling with the fam, kick back at the sandy swimming beach.

However you explore the plains of Central Nebraska, you have plenty of options for your home base. Pull in at one of the RV parks along the I-80, or enjoy tent camping at a state recreation area. When packing, remember to bring a pair of binoculars for spotting sandhill cranes in the rolling grasslands.

North Platte is known for its bitter winters, which explains why most campgrounds are seasonal. The best time to camp here is early summer and fall. The hot summer can be great for spending days on the water, but keep in mind it's also twister season—camp with caution.