Spalding Dam Site Campground

🏞️ **Introduction / Overview: Your Budget-Friendly Nebraska Getaway**

The **Spalding Dam Site Campground**, often referred to as the Spalding Dam/Mill Camping area, is a true gem for value-conscious campers and RV enthusiasts traveling through central Nebraska. Located near the charming village of Spalding in Greeley County, this site offers a **rustic, no-frills camping experience** at an exceptionally affordable rate. It is managed by the local municipality and is distinctly separate from the main Spalding City Park Campground, offering a different set of amenities and a focus on essential, low-cost stays. The primary draw of this location is the incredible value, with one enthusiastic camper noting, **"Well you just cant beat $5 per night with electric."** This highly competitive pricing makes it one of the most cost-effective overnight spots in the region, ideal for budget travelers, long-term campers, or those simply passing through.

The site is specifically situated near the Cedar River, which flows through the area, giving it a scenic, waterside appeal. It appeals to visitors primarily interested in the quiet relaxation of a riverside location and the opportunity for some simple outdoor activities. The low-cost nature and essential amenities allow campers to **"recoup"** their energy and finances, as noted by one grateful reviewer.

A common question for new visitors, reflecting the site's simple offering, is whether it’s a place for an extended **"camping for the weekend"** trip or just a spot **"to just fish"**. The answer is that it's designed for both! While the amenities are basic, the availability of overnight stays with electric hookups makes it perfectly suited for weekend camping. The proximity to the river and nearby ponds also ensures that fishing enthusiasts, like the person mentioned by the happy customer, can easily enjoy their hobby. The site serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the surrounding natural landscape and the small-town community of Spalding. It’s a place that prioritizes affordability and utility, offering a simple, clean spot to stop and enjoy the Nebraska countryside.

---

📍 **Location and Accessibility**

The Spalding Dam Site Campground is found within the village limits of Spalding, Nebraska, 68665, near the Cedar River. While the specific coordinates place it around the dam and mill site, visitors should note its connection to the city's overall recreation planning. Spalding itself is a small, quiet community in Greeley County, known for its friendly atmosphere and connection to local agriculture.

Accessibility is straightforward. Spalding is located off State Highway 91, making the campground a convenient pull-off for travelers exploring the central part of the state. It is nestled in a location that offers a blend of easy access to town facilities and a more remote, waterside feel.

While the address is simply **Spalding, NE 68665, USA**, the official information suggests a general location:

• **Waterside Setting:** Situated near the Cedar River and the town's mill/dam site, providing scenic views and easy access for fishing.
• **Proximity to Town:** Being located in or just outside the main town area means quick access to local businesses for gas, groceries, or supplies, a major convenience over remote recreational areas.

The setting near the Cedar River is significant, as the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has worked in this area to improve fish migration, specifically for species like channel catfish, which enhances the local fishing opportunities for visitors.

---

🛠️ **Services Offered**

The Spalding Dam/Mill Camping area operates on a very basic, community-supported model, focusing on core essentials to keep costs low for the user. It is important to distinguish its offerings from the more feature-rich City Park Campground nearby.

The primary services available at the Dam Site Campground include:

• **Electric Hookups:** The crucial amenity, with sites offering **electric-only** hookups (up to 30 amp in some comparable city-managed sites), which is vital for RV and trailer campers.
• **Affordable Rates:** Extremely budget-friendly pricing, as low as **$5-$10 per night** for open camping with electric, making it one of the most economical options in the state.
• **First-Come, First-Served:** The open camping spots are typically available on a **first-come, first-served** basis, accommodating spontaneous travelers.
• **Fishing Access:** Direct access to the **Cedar River** and nearby **ponds** for fishing activities.
• **Tent Camping:** Suitable for traditional tent camping in addition to RVs, providing a basic, grassy area for setup.
• **Nearby Town Resources:** While not on-site, the proximity to Spalding means quick access to town amenities like a free **dump station** located on the west side of the City Park along Cedar Street, and access to drinking water at the main City Park (which is located less than a mile away).

---

✨ **Features and Highlights**

The highlights of the Spalding Dam Site Campground are less about developed infrastructure and more about the natural environment and the excellent value it provides, complemented by the larger recreational features of Spalding City Park nearby.

• **Unbeatable Value:** The defining feature is the low cost. Campers can secure an overnight spot with electric power for a fraction of the price of commercial campgrounds.
• **Scenic River Setting:** The location by the Cedar River offers a peaceful, natural backdrop, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the sounds of flowing water.
• **Simple Fishing Opportunities:** Guests can easily enjoy **fishing in the river or a few ponds near by**, taking advantage of the area's natural bounty and recent fish habitat improvements.
• **Proximity to Spalding City Park:** Campers have ready access to the extensive, high-quality amenities of the main Spalding City Park (less than a mile away), which features:
  • **Modern Playground Equipment** for children.
  • **Sports Facilities** including baseball diamonds, tennis courts, and a running/walking track.
  • **Immense green space** for various activities.
• **Local Community Events:** The town of Spalding hosts several annual events, such as the Alumni weekend near Memorial Day and activities around Labor Day. Camping here provides an easy way to participate in these authentic Nebraska community gatherings.

---

📞 **Contact Information**

As the Spalding Dam Site Campground is a city-managed facility, inquiries for rules, rates, and information are best directed to the local village office or the designated contact for the dam site.

Address: Spalding, NE 68665, USA (W St Joseph St & Elm St is a general central location for the city's recreation area.)

Phone: (308) 497-2501 (Spalding Village Office)

---

🌟 **What Is Worth Choosing Spalding Dam Site Campground?**

For Nebraska residents, especially those who appreciate a rustic, self-sufficient, and highly economical camping trip, the Spalding Dam Site Campground is an exceptional choice. What makes it truly worth choosing is the **unmatched combination of electric hookups and ultra-low price**. Securing an overnight stay with electricity for potentially **less than $10** is rare in Nebraska, providing incredible value for RV owners who need to run essential appliances but want to save on travel costs.

Secondly, the campground's setting is ideal for a peaceful, **recuperative stop**. It offers the chance to **fish in the river and local ponds**, giving nature lovers a simple outdoor pursuit right outside their door. While the Dam Site itself is basic, its location is perfectly situated to leverage the far more developed facilities of the nearby Spalding City Park. You can enjoy the quiet, low-cost camping environment and then drive a minute or two to access high-quality amenities like a playground, tennis courts, and a walking track.

In essence, Spalding Dam Site Campground is the smart traveler's secret: a **no-frills, low-cost essential base** that allows you to spend your time and money exploring the surrounding Greeley County area and enjoying the welcoming community of Spalding, rather than paying high fees for unnecessary amenities. It’s the perfect spot to stop, power up, and enjoy the authentic, down-to-earth Nebraska outdoor experience.