Fort Kearney Campground—Nebraska
State Recreation Area
When I think of a recreation area, I tend to think of something far grander than Fort Kearny. The campground is on a long, narrow property bordered on all sides by corn fields. There are trees and direct view of the corn fields is partly obstructed, but the park smells like a farm. There is nothing that lends even a remote “wilderness” feel.
A series of small ponds are available for fishing. The same ponds are a breading ground for mosquitoes and one can only imagine that pesticides sprayed on the surrounding crops must drift into the water. I would not consider eating anything caught in those ponds.
The sites are grass or gravel, with one or two paved exceptions for campers with disabilities. I required three leveling blocks and still listed slightly to one side. Furthermore, the sites are pretty close together and the park fills up on weekends.
There are numerous dilapidated vault toilets spread around the campground. A single bathhouse is at one end. It does have a single flush toilet and two urinals in the mens room. The showers require quarters. There is a change machine on the side of the building.
Nebraska State Parks require an entry pass even for campers with a reservation. This is $14 per night (on top of your campground fee) or $70 for an annual pass. The pass is for the calendar year and it is not prorated. This adds to the cost and, all things considered, does not make Nebraska parks a value.
I would absolutely not stay here again and I would look for camping options in Nebraska other than a state park.