Nebraska Tailwaters Campground

For those of us who call Nebraska home, the appeal of spending time outdoors is undeniable. From the tranquil Platte River to the rolling Sandhills, our state offers a diverse landscape for adventure and relaxation. When it comes to finding the perfect spot to pitch a tent or park an RV, many locals look for campgrounds that offer both natural beauty and convenient amenities. Nebraska Tailwaters Campground, situated right on the Missouri River in Crofton, stands out as a destination that caters to the spirit of outdoor living in the Cornhusker State.

Nebraska Tailwaters Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's an access point to some of Nebraska's most cherished natural resources. Located just downstream of Gavins Point Dam and Lewis & Clark Lake, this campground offers direct interaction with the powerful Missouri River and its surrounding scenic beauty. It's a popular choice for anglers, boaters, and anyone looking to escape the everyday hustle and immerse themselves in nature without traveling too far from home.

While some campers enjoy the peace and quiet, it's worth noting that this is a well-used public campground, especially given its prime location. As with any popular outdoor destination, you might encounter a lively atmosphere, particularly during peak seasons. This can mean the sounds of fellow campers enjoying themselves, which is a common experience in bustling areas like those near Lewis & Clark Lake. However, for many Nebraskans, the incredible access to fishing, boating, and the stunning views more than make up for the occasional crowd.

The campground is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring a standard of care and management. It provides a variety of camping options, from electric sites for RVs to non-electric spots perfect for tent campers, aiming to accommodate different preferences and needs. Whether you're planning a serious fishing excursion, a family weekend getaway, or simply a night under the stars, Nebraska Tailwaters Campground offers a direct connection to the outdoor experiences that Nebraskans cherish.

Nebraska Tailwaters Campground is conveniently located at 898 Road, Crofton, NE 68730, USA. This strategic position places it directly on the Nebraska bank of the Missouri River, immediately downstream from the impressive Gavins Point Dam and the vast Lewis & Clark Lake. For Nebraskans, this means easy access to one of the region's most popular recreational waterways.

The campground's location provides exceptional access to the "tailwaters" area of Gavins Point Dam, renowned for its fishing opportunities. The Lewis & Clark Lake area itself draws over two million visitors annually, highlighting the abundance of outdoor activities available right at your doorstep. Whether you're coming from Omaha, Lincoln, or elsewhere in the state, reaching the campground is generally straightforward via well-maintained roads. The proximity to Crofton also means that basic supplies and local services are within a reasonable distance, providing a good balance between a natural escape and practical convenience.

Beyond the immediate area, the campground serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. The Lewis and Clark Visitor Center is a short drive away, offering insightful exhibits on Missouri River history and the famed expedition, along with panoramic views of the lake and river. The Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium is also close by, providing an educational and engaging experience for all ages. Additionally, the historic city of Yankton, South Dakota, is just across the river, offering more dining, shopping, and historical sites to explore.

The ease of access and the wealth of nearby attractions make Nebraska Tailwaters Campground an ideal destination for Nebraskans looking for a local getaway that feels like a true escape. The ability to quickly reach such a rich recreational area is a significant benefit for those wanting to maximize their time outdoors.

Nebraska Tailwaters Campground provides a range of essential services and facilities designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. With a total of 42 campsites, the campground caters to both RV and tent campers:

• Campsites: The campground offers 42 campsites in total. Of these, 31 sites feature electric hookups, suitable for RVs and trailers. The remaining 11 sites are non-electric, designated for tent camping only, providing options for various camping styles.
• Modern Shower Facilities: Campers have access to modern shower facilities with flush toilets, which are regularly maintained for cleanliness. This is a significant amenity for many, as highlighted in customer reviews.
• Restrooms: In addition to flush toilets in the modern shower facilities, vault toilets are also available within the campground.
• RV Dump Station: An on-site RV dump station is provided for the convenience of RV campers, making it easy to dispose of wastewater.
• Drinking Water: Access to potable drinking water is available throughout the campground.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring (or grill), perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering around a campfire.
• Boat Ramp: A large, two-lane boat ramp with ample parking is located within the campground, offering excellent access to the Missouri River for boaters.
• Handicap Accessible Fishing Pier: An accessible fishing pier is available, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can enjoy shore fishing.
• Shore Fishing Access: Numerous spots along the riverbank provide opportunities for shore fishing, a popular activity in the tailwaters area.
• Fish Cleaning Station: A dedicated fish cleaning station is provided, a convenient feature for anglers to prepare their catch.
• Trash Collection: Trash receptacles are available for waste disposal, helping to keep the campground clean.
• Group Camping Area: There is a designated group camping area that includes electric hookups, a picnic shelter, a fire pit, a grill, and a vault toilet, ideal for larger gatherings.
• Cell Service: Good cell service is generally available in the area, allowing campers to stay connected if needed.

Nebraska Tailwaters Campground offers several distinguishing features and highlights that enhance the camping experience for locals:

• Prime Missouri River Access: The campground's location directly on the Missouri River, downstream of Gavins Point Dam, provides unparalleled access for fishing, boating, and enjoying the river's natural beauty.
• Exceptional Fishing Opportunities: The "tailwaters" area is renowned for its excellent fishing, attracting anglers seeking various species. The accessible fishing pier further broadens these opportunities.
• Scenic Views: Campers can enjoy beautiful views of the Missouri River Valley, with its distinctive golden, chalkstone-lined landscape. The area is also known for exceptional Bald Eagle viewing year-round, along with other birds of prey.
• Proximity to Lewis & Clark Lake: Being so close to Lewis & Clark Lake means access to an even wider array of recreational activities, including swimming, sailing, and additional boating opportunities.
• Variety of Campsite Options: With both electric RV sites and non-electric tent sites, the campground caters to different preferences, ensuring a spot for nearly every type of camper.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviews often highlight the cleanliness and good condition of the modern bathroom and shower facilities, which is a significant plus for campers.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: While not extensive, the inclusion of basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings at each site supports family gatherings and traditional camping activities.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open year-round, allowing for seasonal activities like ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling during the winter months, although specific services may vary.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground, Nebraska Tailwaters Campground generally operates on a standard fee basis for campsites, rather than offering frequent promotional discounts or special offers. Pricing is typically determined by the type of site (electric vs. non-electric) and the season.

However, standard national park and recreation passes, such as the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, may offer discounts on camping fees at federal campgrounds like Nebraska Tailwaters. Senior and Access Pass holders, for example, often receive a 50% discount on camping fees. It is always advisable to check the Recreation.gov website or contact the campground directly for the most current pricing, availability, and information regarding any applicable federal pass discounts.

It's important to note that specific "promotions" for individual stays are not common for this type of public campground. The value lies in the natural setting, well-maintained facilities, and direct access to prime recreational areas at a reasonable price, which for many Nebraskans, is a promotion in itself.

For reservations, current availability, or any specific inquiries about Nebraska Tailwaters Campground, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 898 Road, Crofton, NE 68730, USA
• Phone: (877) 444-6777

For Nebraskans seeking an accessible and amenity-rich outdoor experience, Nebraska Tailwaters Campground truly hits the mark. Its prime location directly on the Missouri River, just below Gavins Point Dam, makes it a highly desirable spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts across the state. Instead of traveling far, locals can enjoy top-tier river access and the expansive recreational opportunities of Lewis & Clark Lake right in their backyard.

The campground offers a practical blend of convenience and nature. With well-maintained modern shower facilities, clean restrooms, and reliable electric hookups for RVs, it provides the comforts that enhance a camping trip without detracting from the natural environment. The individual picnic tables and fire rings at each site encourage classic camping traditions, making it easy for families and groups of friends to gather and make memories.

While some reviews mention the potential for noise or crowded conditions during peak times, this is often the trade-off for being in such a popular and highly-sought-after location. For many Nebraskans, the incredible fishing, the convenience of the boat ramp, and the stunning riverside views, often featuring bald eagles, far outweigh these minor considerations. It's a testament to the campground's appeal that it draws so many visitors eager to experience the best of Nebraska's outdoors.

Ultimately, Nebraska Tailwaters Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to enjoying the natural treasures of our state. It provides a reliable, well-equipped, and conveniently located base for Nebraskans to reconnect with nature, indulge in their favorite outdoor activities, and create lasting memories without having to cross state lines. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to embrace the beauty and recreational offerings of our very own Missouri River Valley.