Washington Park Campground

- Deshler, NE 68340

For Nebraskans traveling across the southern part of the state, finding an accessible, affordable, and amenity-rich place to set up camp can feel like hitting the jackpot. The Deshler City Park Campground, sometimes known locally by the general park name of "Washington Park Campground," is exactly that kind of rare find. This isn't just a patch of grass; it’s a thoughtfully maintained city resource designed to warmly welcome visitors—and especially RV travelers—with essential hookups and recreational opportunities right in the heart of town.

The core mission of the Deshler City Park Campground is to provide exceptional value and convenience. It features a specific, well-defined area with 12 back-in sites, dedicated to accommodating recreational vehicles. What truly sets this spot apart is the city's generosity: the first night of camping is offered absolutely free, making it an unmissable stop for anyone traveling through Thayer County, Nebraska. While the larger Washington Park is located a few blocks away and does not offer RV services, the Deshler City Park site combines practicality with the charm of small-town Nebraska life, placing you close to local shops and attractions while enjoying a quiet, well-shaded environment. This commitment to convenience and affordability has made it a highly-rated stop among the local RV community.

The Deshler City Park Campground is officially located within the Deshler City Park boundaries in Deshler, NE 68340, USA. While the provided address may be general to the town, the camping area is easily located on the south side of the city park, near Park Street. It is highly accessible from the main routes passing through this region of Nebraska.

The campground’s setup is specifically designed for RVs, featuring 12 designated back-in spots. The sites are known to be generally level, which simplifies the process of setting up camp after a day of driving. A major highlight of the location is its connection to the city infrastructure. It is situated directly adjacent to a significant portion of the city park, including recreational facilities like the local swimming pool (open seasonally). Furthermore, its in-town location means that services are incredibly close. Essential amenities such as the free sanitary dump station are conveniently located just six blocks north of the campground, typically situated behind the City Office, ensuring easy waste disposal before continuing your journey across Nebraska. This central access to utilities and city resources is a huge benefit for local users looking for a temporary home base.

The services at the Deshler City Park Campground are designed to provide maximum utility for a low-cost, short-term stay, focusing on the core needs of RV travelers.

The key services available include:

• First Night Free Camping: An outstanding value proposition where the first night of camping is free of charge, with a nominal fee of $15 for each additional night (pricing current as of August 2025).
• Electric Hookups: Each of the 12 back-in spots is equipped with both 30 Amp and 110-volt hookups, ensuring power for most RV sizes and internal amenities.
• Water Hookups (Seasonal): Water hydrants are conveniently located at every other power pedestal, though guests should bring an extra water hose for easy connection. Note that water service is seasonal, typically tied to the park's swimming pool operating season, and lines are drained in the winter.
• Free Sanitary Dump Station: A free-to-use dump station is provided by the city, located approximately six blocks north of the campground, behind the City Office, for convenient gray and black water disposal.
• Flush Toilets and Restrooms: Clean restrooms and flush toilets are available, and in the summer season, access to showers is available at the adjacent swimming pool facilities.

Beyond the essential services, the Deshler City Park Campground is celebrated for a number of features that enhance the local camping experience for Nebraska residents.

The standout features and highlights include:

• Exceptional Affordability and Value: The policy of providing the first night of full utility hookups for free is an extremely rare and valuable amenity, making it one of the best bargains in the region.
• Seasonal Pool Access: During the summer, guests have convenient access to the city’s swimming pool, often with showers available in the adjacent facility, providing a major recreational and utility benefit.
• Recreational Park Amenities: Campers are right next to the city park, which typically offers a playground, picnic shelters, sand volleyball, a walking trail, and even a disc golf course (Rattlesnake Run Disc Golf Course), providing plenty of ways to relax.
• Maximum Stay Limit: A maximum stay of seven nights allows travelers to use the location as a comfortable, affordable home base for nearly a full week while visiting family, attending local events, or working in the area.
• Small-Town Convenience: Being located in the city park places the campground within a few blocks of local businesses, including restaurants, grocery stores, and unique local shops.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding campground availability, water service status, or to inquire about the local area, it is best to contact the City of Deshler directly, as the park is a municipal resource.

• Address: Deshler, NE 68340, USA (The actual campground is in the City Park, often referenced at the intersection of 4th Street and Park Street).
• Phone: While the primary park is overseen by the City of Deshler, the phone number for the city office or park board is the most reliable contact for information. Based on public records, this number is often provided: (402) 365-4433.

Always call ahead, especially for longer stays or to confirm the operational status of seasonal amenities like water and the swimming pool.

The Deshler City Park Campground is perfectly suited for Nebraska residents. Its strongest appeal is the balance of essential utility provision and incredible affordability, underpinned by genuine small-town hospitality. For a Nebraskan family on a budget-friendly road trip, a local contractor working in Thayer County, or even residents hosting a large family gathering, the "First Night Free" policy is an unparalleled welcome. The $15 subsequent night rate is an industry rarity for a spot offering 30-amp electric and water hookups, making it an economically smart choice for extended stays up to the seven-night limit.

Moreover, the campground’s placement in the heart of the Deshler City Park ensures that campers are not isolated but are part of the vibrant community fabric, with direct access to swimming, playgrounds, and local stores. This is more than a simple roadside stop; it is a clean, safe, and community-supported facility that offers real value and convenience, truly embodying the welcoming and practical spirit of Nebraska camping.

Washington Park Campground

Deshler, NE 68340, USA