Nebraska Tailwaters Campground

🏞 **Introduction / Overview**

For Nebraskans and travelers seeking an exceptional outdoor experience along the state’s scenic border, **Nebraska Tailwaters Campground** presents a compelling option. Strategically situated on the Nebraska bank of the Missouri River, just below the Gavins Point Dam and the vast expanse of Lewis & Clark Lake, this campground is a favored destination, particularly among anglers and those who cherish river views. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the resort emphasizes access to water recreation and natural beauty, making it a key component of the Lewis and Clark Lake area’s extensive offerings.

The term "tailwaters" refers to the section of the river immediately downstream from the dam, a location renowned for its unique, cool water environment that supports excellent fishing and year-round wildlife viewing, including the majestic Bald Eagle. This area is a cornerstone of the **Missouri National Recreational River**, connecting campers directly to one of the Great Plains' most celebrated natural corridors. While the location provides stunning vistas and unparalleled river access, the popularity of the spot means sites can be closely situated, and visitors should be prepared for a busy, community-oriented camping atmosphere, especially during peak season. Overall, it serves as a functional, scenic, and well-equipped base camp for exploring the entire region.

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📍 **Location and Accessibility**

Nebraska Tailwaters Campground is located on the south bank of the Missouri River in Cedar County, Nebraska, just a short drive from the local community of Crofton. The physical address is **898 Road, Crofton, NE 68730, USA**. The campground's location is defined by its proximity to the **Gavins Point Dam** and Lewis & Clark Lake, making it incredibly accessible for various forms of recreation.

The site is conveniently reached by travelers from across Nebraska and the surrounding region. Access is typically managed via Nebraska Highway 121, providing a direct route to the riverfront area. This proximity to major routes ensures that Nebraskans from Omaha, Lincoln, or other parts of the state can easily arrive for a weekend getaway. Furthermore, the campground's strategic position below the dam's tailwaters provides immediate access to exceptional fishing spots and a **large, two-lane boat ramp** that simplifies getting watercraft onto the Missouri River. Visitors also benefit from being near the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center, which provides educational exhibits on the region’s history and ecology.

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🛃 **Services Offered**

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-managed facility, Nebraska Tailwaters Campground provides a range of essential and modern services designed to support both RV and tent campers. The goal is to maximize the outdoor experience while ensuring comfort and convenience:

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: There are 42 total campsites, with **31 sites offering electric hookups** (including 20/30/50 amp service) for RVs and trailers. The remaining 11 sites are non-electric and designated for tent camping.
• Modern Comfort Stations: The campground features **modern shower facilities and flush toilets**, which are key amenities for a comfortable stay after a long day on the river.
• Drinking Water: **Potable drinking water** is available throughout the park, ensuring easy access for all campers.
• RV Dump Station: A convenient **RV dump station** is provided on-site for the disposal of wastewater, a critical service for RV travelers.
• Group Camping Area: A dedicated **Group Camping Area** is available, complete with electric hookups, a picnic shelter, a fire pit, a grill, and a vault toilet, ideal for family reunions or large gatherings.
• Fish Cleaning Station: Given the area's popularity with anglers, a **dedicated fish cleaning station** is provided to assist with preparing the day's catch.
• Restroom and Toilet Facilities: Both **flush toilets** (in modern comfort stations) and **vault toilets** (in the group area) are available across the grounds.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground welcomes pets, though standard rules regarding leashing and cleanup apply.

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🏆 **Features / Highlights**

The features of Nebraska Tailwaters Campground are specifically tailored to maximize the enjoyment of the surrounding natural environment, particularly the Missouri River:

• Exceptional River Access: The campground is situated **just below Gavins Point Dam**, offering unparalleled access to the cold-water tailwaters known for prime fishing conditions.
• Large Boat Ramp: A significant feature is the **large, two-lane boat ramp** and ample parking area, making it easy for Nebraskans to launch boats for fishing or cruising the Missouri River.
• Handicap Accessible Fishing Pier: A **handicap accessible fishing pier** provides an equitable opportunity for all visitors to cast a line and enjoy bank fishing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is famous for its **Bald Eagle viewing**, which is possible year-round, along with opportunities to observe other birds of prey and local wildlife in the Missouri River Valley.
• Proximity to Recreational Attractions: The campground is minutes away from the **Lewis and Clark Visitor Center** and the **Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium**, providing educational and family-friendly activities.
• Campsite Amenities: Every campsite includes a **picnic table, a fire ring, and a grate**, essential for a traditional Nebraska camping experience.
• River Views: All sites are designed to face towards the river, offering **stunning views** of the river valley and the tailwaters, a highlight for many visitors.

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📩 **Contact Information**

For reservations, current information, and inquiries about Nebraska Tailwaters Campground, which is managed by the USACE, please use the following contact details. Reservations are often made through the national Recreation.gov system:

Address: **898 Road, Crofton, NE 68730, USA**

Reservation Phone (Toll-Free): **(877) 444-6777**

Mobile Phone (Reservation): **+1 877-444-6777**

It is highly recommended to call or check the official reservation system well in advance, especially for summer and weekend dates, as this is a popular location for Nebraska outdoor enthusiasts.

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🧾 **What is Worth Choosing**

For Nebraskan campers and outdoor lovers, Nebraska Tailwaters Campground is worth choosing primarily for its **unbeatable location directly on the Missouri River tailwaters**. It offers an experience that is truly unique to the state’s northeastern border. Unlike more secluded or primitive camping, this USACE-managed site provides the necessary **modern amenities**, like electric hookups and clean shower facilities, that make RV and family camping comfortable and convenient.

The **angler appeal** is another major draw; the campground is an epicenter for fishing, with its accessible fishing pier, large boat ramp, and proximity to cold, oxygen-rich waters below the dam. For the nature observer, the opportunity for **Bald Eagle viewing** is an incredible highlight. While public feedback sometimes points to sites being close together and the occasional noise or insect presence (common issues for popular river campgrounds), the core value proposition is clear: easy, full-service access to premier Missouri River recreation.

Choosing Nebraska Tailwaters means prioritizing **riverfront recreation and essential camping utility** over absolute seclusion. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to boat, fish, or explore the Lewis and Clark Lake area, including the nearby visitor center and hatchery. For Nebraska residents, it’s a readily accessible, government-managed site that offers a reliable and spectacular outdoor setting right in their own backyard.