Nebraska's byways offer diverse attractions, amenities for RV travelers

By Matt Gersib

With nine scenic and historic byways, eight state parks, 65 state recreation areas and numerous private campgrounds, Nebraska is a great place to travel in a recreational vehicle. The towns and campgrounds along the state’s byways enthusiastically support RV travelers, and the routes take visitors to some of Nebraska’s most magnificent destinations.

Nebraska’s largest body of water, Lake McConaughy is an oasis of recreational opportunities with nearly 250 RV spaces in four campgrounds around the lake. Most sites have electrical hookups, and each campground has a conveniently located RV dumping station. Lake McConaughy also offers miles of white-sand beaches, perfect for sand volleyball, ATV cruising and leisurely barefoot walks. The boating and water skiing are unbeatable, too. And don’t forget the incredible fishing in both Lake McConaughy and nearby Lake Ogallala. Lake McConaughy is located near Ogallala on both the Western Trails Scenic & Historic Byway and the Lincoln Highway Scenic & Historic Byway, as well as I-80, making for an easy drive—even in a large RV or motor coach.

Nestled in the northeastern corner of the state in the steep, forested bluffs on the Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway, Ponca State Park is one of Nebraska’s hidden gems. Named for the native Ponca tribe that once inhabited the area, the park provides visitors a glimpse into a unique ecosystem that includes a wide variety of both animal and plant species. Ponca State Park also offers more than 70 RV/trailer sites that include electricity, wheelchair-accessible restrooms and an RV dumping station. A number of recreation options, including horseback riding, swimming at the pool, boating, fishing, hiking and mountain biking, are available as well.

Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Harlan County Lake is one of Nebraska’s largest bodies of water. It’s located on the Heritage Highway in the south-central part of the state and is a popular destination for fishing, boating or simply getting away from the hustle and bustle. Harlan County Lake offers two campgrounds with RV pads that include electrical hookups, showers and modern restrooms. Attendants are stationed at the campgrounds to assist guests from May 1 to Oct. 1.

The Nebraska Division of Travel and Tourism’s Website http://www.VisitNebraska.gov can help you find RV-friendly destinations along Nebraska’s byways. The site also offers a searchable database of public and publicly accessible private campgrounds, with attraction features and regional information as well as contacts for more information or site reservations.

Bookmark/Search this post with:

Delicious  •   Digg  •   StumbleUpon  •   Facebook  •   Yahoo