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Toadstool Geologic Park is noted for its unusual geological formations, some in the shape of toadstools, and scientifically valuable fossil deposits. Our interpretive kiosk explains and illustrates the local geology and provides information and history about the local grasslands. During your hike look for signs of fossils that give scientists insight into the behavior of animals as they passed through this area as far back as 30 million years ago. In order for others to enjoy viewing these fossil resources collection is prohibited. The trailhead at the campground provides access to three hiking trails to choose from with varying degrees of difficulty. A one mile loop highlights many examples of eroded clay/sandstone formations. While on the trail, follow our interpretive brochure to learn the fascinating geology of the area. The Bison Trail leaves the interpretive loop at the half way point and continues up the canyon to Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center. Toadstool Campground to Hudson Meng is 3 miles one way. A five mile loop begins at the campground and proceeds on the graveled section of the interpretive trail for a short distance before heading north through the badlands and grasslands on the Great Plains Trail. After 1.5 miles the Great Plains Trail intersects with the 918 Road. Follow the signs to return to the Bison Trail and Toadstool Campground. The loop can be done in reverse going the other direction on the interpretive trail as you leave the campground. The Great Plains Trail developed by the Great Plains Trail Alliance is a cross country network of public land trails and roads beginning in Guadalupe National Park and ending at the Canadian Border. The Bison Trail, 918 Road and part of the 5 mile loop are part of this network. Great Plains Trail information can be found at www.greatplainstrail.org The campground consists of six sites with picnic tables and fire rings and upright grills and two accessible vault toilets. There is no water and the campground is open year round with limited services from mid- November to early May. In the off season pack in/pack out. Special features : In 1984 the Forest Service constructed a sod house near the site of a sod house built in 1929. The new soddie provides a look into the past when the homesteaders on the grasslands used the only abundant material available. The original sod house was lived in briefly before being abandoned and signs of the original structure no longer exist. Fossils and artifacts are protected under federal laws.
In Crawford, NE, at the intersection of State Routes 2/71 and US Route 20, take Route 2/71 north 16.6 miles to second Toadstool sign. Turn left after sign onto Sugarloaf Rd. (gravel, single-lane with few turnouts) and go 6.5 miles to another Toadstool sign. Turn left at sign onto Toadstool Rd (gravel and dirt) and go 2 miles to campground sign. Turn right after the sign onto gravel road, crossing railroad tracks, and go 1.3 miles into campground.
This place is a bit out there but worth it - basically a little Badlands area in Nebraska. The road out is gravel (10 miles in and 10 miles out) but pretty smooth - may get soupy on a heavy rain. We were the only ones there on this day and we did the 1.0 loop which was self guided with markers. Very cool oasis in the middle of NE grasslands.
I had an amazing experience here walking the trails. It was windy there so be sure to pack something for that, some chap stick, maybe a tub of petroleum jelly, and water. I took the Bison Trail and I believe that’s as 8.8 miles but because I wandered from the trail in the plains I walked a little more. I had a GPS strapped to me so it definitely helped me stay at ease with walking the trails, some of the markers at the time were either low or maybe they kind of blended in, but overall a beautiful area, quite a under rated gem.
My husband and I visited in October of 2023. It was so wonderful to see the rock formations and we enjoyed camping and walking the trails. This is an awesome place to bring your family.
Toadstool is an incredible diamond in the rough. All the sudden you drive into this rocky and serene landscape that will mesmerize you. It is just unreal, to be honest. While you’re in the area go to the homestead and bone bed and submerge yourself in the local history! Sunrise or sunset at toadstool is certainly on my bucket list.
