Driving Across Nebraska

[rperrym]

We will be driving across Nebraska later this month on the way to the Tetons and Yellowstone. Does anyone have a favorite campground on or near I-80 where we could stop overnight?
We do appreciate any input on this.
Thanks,

Rick

[TheOhioSean]

I've never actually stayed the night in Nebraska, so I can't offer any advice on camping or lodging there. I would, however, recommend stopping at Scotts Bluff National Monument along the way, if you can work it in. It offers interesting rock formations, a few short trails (and a couple longer ones) that offer some sweeping views, and the remnants of some old pioneer trails (complete with wagons being "pulled" by faux horses and oxen). It is either your first or last chance for any topographic relief for quite some time, depending upon which way you're traveling.

[Larry C]

Aurora, NE, about a quarter mile south of I-80. I don't remember the name but we used to stay there often.

[TG Twinkie]

Where do you plan to head north from I-80? If you turn north on Hwy 71 at Kimball. You will go right by the Scottsbluff National Monument. Also where you can connect to HWY 26. Which before I-80 was the "Road to Yellowstone". And still is for many.
We have courtesy parking and live 1 mile north of Hwy 26, right at the Nebraska/Wyoming border.
Let me know what dates you plan to be this far west. If they coincide with us being here. You are welcome to stay. We have an 80 acre farm with plenty of space. You can even plug in if desired.

[tsunami]

Just North of Ogallala is Lake McConaghy. Theres a nice campground on the North side of the lake. Stayed there back in 2007. Also, stop into the Cabbala's Sports store headquarter in Sidney NE. They also have camping facilities and are right off of the highway. Photo is at Ogallala campground.

[rperrym]

Good ideas everyone. Thank you. TG,we are planning to go the Rawlins, Wy., route instead of Cody so we may not get by your place. But, so nice of you to offer. We may change our mind about Cody.

Rick

[Rich W]

Originally Posted by tsunami

... Also, stop into the Cabbala's Sports store headquarter in Sidney NE. They also have camping facilities and are right off of the highway.

I'll second the vote for the Cabela's campground at Sidney. It's very nice, clean showers and rest rooms. The main Cabela's store is a short walk away with plenty to see. Make a reservation as they will sometimes fill up.

[2Tex4Fun]

We have also stayed at Cabela's campground--very nice & some walking areas. There is a city park with campground (W/E) in Cozad, NE that is also easy off I-80.
Victoria

[terryV]

If you are crossing Nebraska on I 80, be sure to stop in Paxton at Ollie's Big Game Bar. Good food and stuffed animals of every kind.

If you are coming thru Iowa on I 80, I have courtesy parking in Monroe, just 10 miles south of I 80 at Newton. (30 miles east of I 35)

[rperrym]

Thanks Terry. Appreciate for the offer. We are coming from Arkansas and Missouri to Nebraska.

[youngpeck]

You are no doubt probably trying to save time, but why not get off I-80 (at least by the time you reach North Platte) and drive on the U.S. highways? One of the delightful surprises about the state is the beautiful country to be seen once you get out of the Platte River Valley. All of the suggestions tendered here are good. But you won't regret having left the freeway and tasted the other roads, especially U.S. 26 up through Scotts Bluff, by Chimney Rock, and up to Fort Laramie across the border into Wyoming.

Have a great trip!

[rperrym]

You are right. Thanks for the suggestion. We will go through Scottsbluff and then to Casper.

Rick

[Farmer Dan]

Rick,
Mahoney State Park, just west of Omaha, is a nice park with many W/E sites. It is easy access just north of I 80. Due to being so close to Omaha it is busy on weekends. It is next door to the SAC Air Museum, which is a cool place to visit if you have time. Also, in IA, just 6 mi. W from I 29 at MM 72 is Wilson Island State Park. It is right along the Mo. River. If you stay at this park you will go past my house as I am 1.25 mi W. from the exit. This area of I 29 is where I 680 heads E up over the Loess hills from the Mo. river bottoms.
Dan

[TG Twinkie]

We are 26 miles west of Scottsbluff. 1 mile north of Henry NE Hwy 26. The offer still stands. If it works for you.
What dates do you plan to be in the area?

[rperrym]

Thanks for the info Farmer Dan. TG, we are not sure on exact dates, but near the end of August.

Rick