Family Camping Activities for All Ages: Games, Hiking, and Campfire Fun
Explore family camping activities that bring all ages together, from outdoor games and scenic hikes to memorable campfire fun that creates lasting memories.
Nestled in the heart of Western Nebraska, Riverside Campground in Scottsbluff offers an inviting escape for both seasoned campers and those new to the joys of the outdoors. This highly-regarded campground provides a unique blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a wealth of nearby attractions, making it an ideal destination for Nebraska locals seeking adventure or relaxation. Situated within the larger Riverside Park, the campground boasts breathtaking views of the iconic Scotts Bluff National Monument, a historical landmark that has guided travelers for centuries. It's a place where the grandeur of Nebraska's landscape meets the comfort of well-maintained facilities, promising a memorable experience for families, solo adventurers, and anyone eager to explore the wonders of the High Plains.
Riverside Campground has earned its reputation as a local favorite for good reason. It’s more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a central hub from which to discover the diverse offerings of the Scottsbluff area. From exciting wildlife encounters at the adjacent Riverside Discovery Center to leisurely strolls along the scenic Monument Valley Pathway, there's an activity for every interest. While some visitors have noted that certain facilities show signs of age, the overwhelming consensus points to the campground’s incredible value, picturesque setting, and the genuine hospitality of its hosts, proving that the pros truly outweigh any minor cons.
Riverside Campground is conveniently located at 1514 S Beltline Hwy W, Scottsbluff, NE 69361, USA. This prime location places it directly within Riverside Park, offering seamless access to its many recreational features. The campground’s position along the South Beltline Highway West ensures easy arrival for both local residents and those traveling from further afield in Nebraska. Its close proximity to the city of Scottsbluff means that while you’re immersed in the tranquility of nature, essential services, grocery stores, and local dining options are just a short drive away. For those keen on exploring the region’s historical and natural treasures, the campground’s direct line of sight to Scotts Bluff National Monument is a significant advantage, allowing for quick and easy trips to this monumental landmark. The campground is also well-connected to the Monument Valley Pathway, a popular trail network that encourages walking, running, and biking right from your campsite.
One reviewer specifically highlighted the excellent location, noting, "It is located right next to Scotts Bluff NM, surrounded by YMCA and Riverside Discovery Center (zoo). The location is excellent and the price is very reasonable for full hookup. The surrounding is so beautiful especially during the sunset." This perfectly encapsulates the strategic advantage of Riverside Campground’s address, offering convenience and beauty in one package.
Address: 1514 S Beltline Hwy W, Scottsbluff, NE 69361, USA
Phone: (308) 631-1464
Mobile Phone: +1 308-631-1464
For reservations and further information, it is recommended to call the campground directly using the provided phone numbers. You can also typically find information and potentially online booking options through the official City of Scottsbluff Parks and Recreation website.
For residents of Nebraska, Riverside Campground in Scottsbluff is an absolute gem, offering an accessible and enriching outdoor experience right in their backyard. Its strategic location, with stunning views of Scotts Bluff National Monument and immediate access to the Riverside Discovery Center and other park amenities, makes it an ideal spot for a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation. The campground caters to a variety of needs, from RVers seeking full hookups to tent campers desiring a more rustic experience, all at very reasonable prices.
The ability to enjoy a zoo, a spacious dog park, fishing ponds, and scenic walking/biking trails without even leaving the park premises provides unparalleled convenience and entertainment for all ages. The generally quiet environment, coupled with the helpful and friendly camp hosts, creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. While some minor facility updates might enhance the experience, the overall value, natural beauty, and wealth of activities firmly establish Riverside Campground as a top choice for Nebraskans looking to connect with nature, create lasting memories, and appreciate the unique charm of their home state’s outdoor offerings. It’s more than just a place to stay; it's a community hub for local outdoor enthusiasts.
Picnics
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
RV camping
RV electric hookup
RV water hookup
Hiking
Barbecue grill
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Public shower
Restroom
Running water
Tent sites
Wi-Fi
Camping fee
Credit cards
Debit cards
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Playground
On-site parking
Dog park
Dogs allowed
I have the mixed feeling about this campground. It is located right next to Scotts Bluff NM, surrounded by YMCA and Riverside Discovery Center (zoo). The location is excellent and the price is very reasonable for full hookup. The surrounding is so beautiful especially during the sunset. The only downside is the facility is outdated. Only two showers and one of them is broken, so long waiting line. The shortcut from Discovery Center is blocked so a long dirt road to the campground. It's hot and dry during the day and no shade. But I think the pros outweighs the cons.
We stayed here for 4 days in mid-June. We didn’t have any trouble getting reservations (although the reservation site used has an issue with multiple side slides) and, in fact, had to extend our stay due to a vehicle malfunction. There’s a zoo next door (not noisy except the peacock), several fishing ponds, a huge dog park with multiple sections, and a wonderful bike/walking path right along the river. There is a train track close, but I haven’t heard them blast a single horn. Our site, #1, was easy to get in and out of, and was at least 50 feet long. All sites appear to be pull throughs. At no time while we were there were all the spots taken. There are also a lot of tent sites, but they’re on the opposite side of the restroom/shower house. I can’t speak to the cleanliness of the restroom since I didn’t go in. The hosts were pleasant enough and from what I could see, left everyone alone. They did drive around in the evening and offer firewood - pretty sure it was free. We would definitely stay here again. Update: 2 weeks later - due to truck at mechanic - our host was incredible to work with (us having no vehicle to move our camper and not knowing how long we were “stuck”) She went above and beyond to help us, she was very understanding, and assisted us in getting a camp spot daily.
Put us (in a tent) in a flood zone when there were SEVERAL places, completely vacant that were at a higher level. Had to move our tent in the middle of the day because water was pooling up underneath the tent. I understand you cannot control the weather, however you can predict it and place people accordingly to the safest and most comfortable spaces. Bathrooms- pretty clean, dividers between urinals, good privacy. Showers- absolutely 0 privacy, no curtain between shower area and the rest of the bathroom. No curtains between the two showers either. Not even a hanger for your towel or clothes outside the shower at all, so you have to get out of the shower with no clothes on just to grab your towel accross the shower area. Also, no hot water at all. Sat there for about 10 minutes with it on the hottest setting and it stayed freezing cold. If you fixed the hot water, gave privacy curtains between showers, and at least try to help with the flood zones in the tent camping sites, it would be a 5 star review. The only reason it's not a 1 star review is because the campground itself is at least somewhat beautiful and there are decent activities to do around it.
I wasn't sure what to expect with the mixed reviews but I was pleasantly surprised. We needed a place to pitch a tent for one night on a road trip, and this worked very well. The camp and entire park are well kept, the bathrooms were old but functional and clean. One complaint is the boys told me there was no soap or paper towels in the men's room, but there were soap and a hand dryer in the women's. The tent sites had grass at a good height and nice little picnic tables that seemed pretty new. We got in too late to make it to the zoo and splash pad, but the kids liked the playground and my husband and I enjoyed the nice new walking path and the views of the bluff and the river. The big downside was noise, when we first went to bed we could hear the nearby raceway, and you could hear the nearby traffic and occasional train (no horns). These weren't enough to keep any of us up, but they made it clear you weren't in the wilderness. Still, for a $10 stopping point, it was overall fantastic. I could also see coming here for a "step up from backyard camping" experience for a family, you could make a day of it with the zoo, disc golf, fishing, or other activities and have a place for a tent and fire in the evening. Not a place to go for a wilderness feel.
For the price it was excellent and highly recommend staying there if you need a place to stop in the area.