Fort Kearny SRA Campground

For generations of Nebraskans, the Fort Kearny State Recreation Area (SRA) Campground has been a beloved destination, perfectly blending historical significance with exceptional outdoor recreation. Situated in the heart of the Central Platte River Valley near Kearney, this campground offers campers a beautiful, shaded retreat dotted with scenic sandpit lakes and towering, century-old cottonwood trees.

Fort Kearny SRA is a proud part of the Nebraska State Park system, offering modern and primitive camping year-round. It is strategically located near the historic Fort Kearny State Historical Park, the original military post built in 1848 to protect travelers on the Oregon and Overland Trails. This proximity allows visitors to seamlessly move from a relaxing lakeside camp to an engaging historical exploration of the American West.

The experience at the campground is often described as pleasantly surprising. As one reviewer noted, they were "pleasantly surprised with how beautiful this campground was," enjoying hiking, swimming, fishing, and campfire meals. The park features two main areas, the East and West campgrounds, offering a variety of site types—from Basic (non-electric) to Electric Plus—to accommodate every type of vehicle, from tents to large RVs.

While some visitors have pointed out minor maintenance issues with older picnic tables or the lack of hand sanitizer in vault toilets (a common feature of rustic facilities), the overall consensus highlights the high quality of the atmosphere and the amenities provided, such as clean modern restrooms, hot showers, and well-maintained fire pits. It is important for campers to be aware of the fee structure—a nightly camping fee plus a required Nebraska State Park Entry Permit (which is discounted for Nebraska residents)—which ensures the continued maintenance and preservation of this state treasure.

The Fort Kearny SRA Campground is truly a central Nebraska gem, offering a comfortable, activity-filled, and conveniently located base for exploring one of the state's most vital natural and historical areas.

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One of the most remarkable aspects of Fort Kearny SRA is its unique position in the central Platte River Valley, making it a world-renowned destination during the spring migration. This is the site of the world's largest gathering of Sandhill Cranes, a spectacular natural event that draws bird watchers from across the globe. Campers staying at Fort Kearny SRA have privileged, easy access to prime viewing areas for this incredible wildlife spectacle.

Beyond bird watching, the 186-acre recreation area is peppered with eight sandpit lakes, offering ample opportunities for water-based recreation. A dedicated swimming beach is a major draw during the warmer months, and the lakes are stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish, making fishing a popular pastime for all ages.

For land exploration, the park features a signature hike/bike trail that stretches 1.8 miles one way, complete with scenic crossings over two channels of the majestic Platte River. This trail conveniently connects the recreation area to the State Historical Park, linking the camping experience directly to the area's rich history. Guests have even praised the availability of free bike rentals offered by the welcoming Camp Hosts, making exploration even easier and more enjoyable.

With half of the electrical campsites available for reservation up to 180 days in advance, and the other half available first-come, first-served via the "Iron Ranger" system, the park balances the need for planning with the flexibility for spontaneous travel, a system favored by many long-distance travelers passing through I-80.

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## Location and Accessibility

Fort Kearny SRA Campground is located just off I-80 near Kearney, NE 68840, USA. The official address is 1020 V Road, Kearney, NE 68847, which places it three miles east and one mile north of the Historical Park.

Accessibility is one of its major advantages for travelers crossing Nebraska. It can be easily reached from the Minden exit (279) or the Kearney exit (272) off I-80, minimizing the distance from the interstate while providing a peaceful, secluded setting. The drive-in access is excellent, accommodating large RVs up to 50 feet in length, and the grounds feature clear signage and well-maintained roadways.

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## Services Offered

As a major Nebraska State Recreation Area campground, Fort Kearny provides a robust range of amenities for modern camping comfort.

• Campsites: Approximately 120 total sites, divided into Electric Plus, Electric, and Basic (non-electric) sites, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs.
• Hookups: Sites offer 30 and 50 amp electrical hookups, with Electric Plus sites providing the highest amperage.
• Sanitary Facilities: Clean modern restrooms (flush toilets) and hot showers are available, ensuring comfort (note: showers may be coin-operated in some areas).
• RV Services: A centrally located dump and fill station is provided for convenient waste disposal and water replenishment.
• Recreational Amenities: Includes a swimming beach, designated picnic areas, fire rings, grills, and shelters.
• Campground Management: Sites are available via reservations (50% of electric sites) and first-come, first-served registration via the Iron Ranger.

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## Features / Highlights

Fort Kearny is rich in unique highlights that appeal to diverse interests, from history buffs to nature lovers.

• Sandhill Crane Migration: Prime location for viewing the world's largest concentration of Sandhill Cranes and waterfowl during the spring migration.
• Historical Proximity: Located near the Fort Kearny State Historical Park, offering historical exhibits and the reconstructed military post.
• Scenic Hike/Bike Trail: A 1.8-mile trail crosses the Platte River, connecting the SRA to the Historical Park.
• Abundant Water Recreation: Features eight sandpit lakes for fishing (catfish, bass) and a designated swimming beach.
• Shade and Ambiance: The campground is heavily shaded by majestic, old cottonwood trees, creating a cool and quiet environment.
• Free Bike Rentals: Campers have reported the availability of complimentary bike rentals from friendly Camp Hosts, enhancing on-site exploration.

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## Contact Information

For site reservations, current rates, or specific questions about conditions or crane viewing information, contact the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission office for the area.

Address: 1020 V Road, Kearney, NE 68847-9804, USA

Park Office Phone: (308) 865-5305

Reservation Phone: 1-844-637-2757

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## What is Worth Choosing

Choosing the Fort Kearny SRA Campground is choosing a quintessentially Nebraskan experience that offers far more than just a place to park. It is worth choosing for its exceptional value as a hub for both history and nature.

The ability to park your RV or pitch your tent under the massive cottonwood trees and be minutes away from an original Oregon Trail fort is a unique cultural draw. Furthermore, the recreational amenities—the lakes for swimming and fishing, and the hike/bike trail—ensure constant family entertainment.

If you are traveling across Nebraska, particularly during the Sandhill Crane season, Fort Kearny SRA is the undisputed best location for comfortable, affordable lodging with guaranteed access to one of the world's great wildlife spectacles. This campground is a must-visit destination for any Nebraska resident or traveler seeking a high-quality state park stay.