Washington Park Campground

Introduction / Overview: A Welcoming Spot in Southeast Nebraska

For Nebraska residents and travelers seeking a genuinely affordable, clean, and conveniently located place to rest their RV or trailer in the southeastern part of the state, the Deshler City Park Campground stands out as a community gem. While sometimes locally confused with the smaller "Washington Park," the campground with the essential RV amenities is officially located within the city’s main park complex. This facility is proudly maintained by the City of Deshler, offering a no-frills, highly practical, and incredibly budget-friendly camping option.

The park operates with a unique and generous fee structure: the first night is free, and subsequent nights are offered at a very low rate, with a maximum stay limit to ensure availability for all travelers. This policy reflects the true hospitality of small-town Nebraska, aiming to support travelers moving through the region. The campground provides essential services, including electrical hookups and seasonal water access, primarily catering to the self-sufficient RV crowd looking for a safe and easy overnight or short-term stop. It is a small park, focused on providing the necessities without the complexity of larger commercial campgrounds.

Location and Accessibility: Near the Kansas Border in Deshler

The Deshler City Park Campground is located in the small, friendly community of Deshler, Nebraska, which is situated in Thayer County. The general address is referenced simply as Deshler, NE 68340, USA, with the park itself being the Deshler City Park. It is easily accessible from Nebraska State Highway 15, which runs directly through the town, making it a simple detour for travelers crossing the state.

Important logistical points for travelers:

• City Park Setting: The campground is integrated into the city's main park complex, providing campers with immediate access to public amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas.
• Proximity to Town Center: The park is within easy reach of the town's businesses, including gas stations, local restaurants, and the City Office, ensuring that supplies are never far away.
• Navigational Clarity: Campers should note that the RV hookups are at the Deshler City Park Campground. The geographically separate "Washington Park" (located five blocks north on 4th Street) does not have RV hookups, clarifying a common source of confusion for first-time visitors.
• Nebraska/Kansas Border: Deshler is located only a few miles north of the Kansas state line, making it a very convenient stop for travelers moving north or south between the two states.

Services Offered

The Deshler City Park Campground is focused on delivering key essential services for RV and trailer owners in a community-supported setting:

• Number of Sites: A total of 12 dedicated camping spots are available.
• Site Configuration: All 12 sites are Back-In spots, requiring careful maneuvering but generally accommodating rigs of various lengths.
• Electrical Hookups: Every spot is equipped with essential electrical services, specifically 30 Amp and 110-Volt (20 Amp) hookups.
• Water Access: Water hydrants are available, typically located at every other power pedestal. Campers are advised to bring an extra-long water hose for convenience.
• Seasonal Water Availability: Water service is seasonal, as it is tied to the park's swimming pool lines and must be kept drained during the winter months to prevent freezing. Campers should assume water is not available during late fall through early spring.
• Dump Station: A significant feature is the Free Dump Station available six blocks north of the campground, conveniently located behind the City Office.
• Fee Structure: Pricing is highly competitive and unique: First Night is Free; each additional night is $15 (as of August 2025). A maximum stay of seven nights is enforced.

Features / Highlights of the Deshler City Park Experience

The experience at this campground is defined by its community integration, affordability, and practical conveniences:

• Exceptional Affordability: The pricing structure, including the free first night, makes this one of the most budget-friendly RV stops available along the Nebraska highway system.
• City Park Amenities: Being located within the City Park, campers have access to public facilities that might include picnic shelters, grills, and a playground, perfect for families traveling with children.
• Swimming Pool Access: Due to its connection to the city pool's water lines, the campground is adjacent to the public swimming pool, which is often open seasonally for a nominal fee, providing a fantastic way to cool off during Nebraska's summer heat.
• Free Dump Station: The availability of a nearby, free dump station is a major logistical and cost-saving advantage for all RV travelers.
• Small-Town Hospitality: The entire operation is a testament to the generosity and welcoming spirit of Deshler, providing a quiet, community-supported alternative to commercial RV parks.
• Easy Highway Access: Its location just off Highway 15 makes it an ideal, minimal-detour stop for cross-state travel.

Contact Information

For the most accurate information on current rates, water availability (especially outside of summer), and local policies, contact the Deshler City Office, which oversees the campground operations:

Address (Campground Location): Deshler City Park Campground, Deshler, NE 68340, USA

City Office Phone (Inquiries): (402) 365-7281 (This is the generally available phone number for the City of Deshler for inquiries.)

Payment Method: Payment is typically self-service via an honor system drop box at the site. Always carry cash or checks for the required fee.

What is Worth Choosing Deshler City Park Campground

For Nebraska residents and travelers, choosing the Deshler City Park Campground is a compelling choice due to its unbeatable combination of value, community support, and core functionality. The key differentiator is the first night free policy, which is an immediate, significant saving for those making short overnight stops. When combined with the low nightly rate and the nearby free dump station, it becomes one of the most cost-effective RV sites in Southeast Nebraska.

The campground offers exactly what self-sufficient travelers need: reliable 30-amp power and seasonal water, all in a safe, small-town park setting. While it may lack the elaborate features of major resorts, it more than makes up for it with its quiet, friendly atmosphere and convenience to Highway 15. For those exploring the Thayer County area or simply passing through, this City Park campground is a highly recommended, authentic, and economical piece of Nebraska hospitality.