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Tucked in the shade of ponderosa pines planted in the early 1900's, this 23-unit campground is located in the southeast corner of the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest. A hand water pump, picnic tables, fire rings, and modern vault toilets make this an attractive base from which to explore the Sandhills. The Blue Jay Trail, a one-mile nature loop, starts and ends at the campgound. For horseback riders, a corral with 8 stalls is available, with a manure bunk nearby. We ask that horses not be in individual campsites unless being saddled.
From Nenzel, NE go south on State Spur 16F for 18 miles until you arrive at the campground. From Valentine, NE head south on NE-97 for 26 miles, turn right onto the Merritt Dam Road. Continue onto Forest Service Road 5 for 15 miles, turn left onto at State Spur 16F go 2 miles to the campround.
Sweet little out of the way place to camp. Well shaded! Vault toilets well maintained. Fresh water hand pump a nice added touch! Plenty of firewood. Hiking trail access. And really no one else for miles. All for only $15/night.
If alone and quiet are your goal while camping in a public campground, this is your place. It seems to be off the beaten path. The hand pump well works perfectly and the vault toilet is newer and in very good condition. There is also ample off trial hiking and wildlife viewing available. However, mountain biking is challenging in the loose sand that exists throughout the region. Really, for $5 per night, it is a great place to stay for a few days.
