Campground policy
To help campers enjoy their visit to the fullest, Nebraska Game and Parks offers these campground policy reminders. Exceptions to any of these rules must have the prior approval of the park area superintendent.
Fees
- A Motor Vehicle Park Entry Permit is required on all licensed vehicles entering any state park, state recreation area or state historical park. Buy one at the park, statewide Game and Parks offices and permit vendors, or in advance of your arrival online at GoOutdoorsNE.com.
- Camping fees are required to be paid prior to occupying a campsite.
- Camping fees are in addition to Motor Vehicle Park Entry Permits.
Camping reservations
The camping reservation system serves as a tool for friends, families, camping clubs and reunions to secure campsites next to each other. Half of the modern sites are allocated for reservations for this purpose; the other half of modern campsites are first-come, first-served.
First-come, first-serve sites
- Non-reservable campsites are assigned on a first-come, first- served basis.
- Non-reservable campsites must be physically occupied immediately by a camping unit or tent as defined by the regulations.
- First-come, first-served campers must register at the entrance booth or office, or at a self-registration drop box.
- Campers extending their stay must re-register by 2 p.m. An additional $5 late registration fee is charged for failure to register within one hour to extend a stay.
- Campers must attach their camping receipt on the registration envelope to the post at the campsite or to their camping unit to occupy the site.
- The maximum occupancy of a campsite is (1) one camping unit and one tent; (2) two tents; and one vehicle that is used to tow or transport the camping unit or one vehicle that is towed by the camping unit. Additional vehicles or trailers must use the designated parking areas.
Campground rules
- Vehicles are NOT permitted on unregistered campsites, roadways or grass.
- Camping or occupying locations within a park area, or campground, is permitted for a maximum of 14 consecutive days during any 30-day period.
- Dogs, cats and other pets are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash that is no longer than 6 feet; except for certified service animals.
- Quiet hours are in effect from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Keep your camping area clean. Place all trash in receptacles or “pack it out”.
- Please do not leave personal items unattended. Nebraska Game and Parks is not responsible for lost or stolen property.
Alcohol
- Alcohol cannot be consumed on roadways, designated swimming areas, parking areas and other posted areas.
- Alcohol consumption is prohibited during quiet hours. Alcohol consumption is prohibited at Willow Creek and Lake McConaughy state recreation areas.
Departures
- Camping equipment and personal items must be completely removed and the campsites cleaned with all trash placed in designated receptacles.
- Campfires must be completely extinguished upon departure.
Park Pricing
A park entry permit is required to visit state parks and may be purchased at the park, statewide Game and Parks offices and permit vendors, or in advance of your arrival online. View those fees, as well as attraction and amenity pricing.