All campsites at Calamus State Recreation Area near Burwell will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for the upcoming season. This change is due to a road project scheduled for 2024, which will temporarily halt the campground’s reservation system.
According to a press release, the project aims to improve accessibility and safety across the area, with upgrades including the repaving of camper pads, roadways, and critical access routes like Virginia Smith Dam and South Lake Road up to Dry Valley. This initiative also introduces ADA-accessible camper pads to better accommodate all visitors.
During the construction phase, parts of the park, including some campgrounds, will experience temporary closures.
For secured camping spots, Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area, located roughly 40 miles southeast of Calamus, offers an alternative. This site features the newly expanded West Ridge Campground, which includes 61 campsites equipped with Electric Plus (30/50 amp) service. Here, reservations are required for half of the sites, while the remainder are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Calamus State Recreation Area, set amidst the scenic Nebraska sandhills, is known for its camping, fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking opportunities. The area boasts a vast 5,123-acre lake and an additional 4,958 acres of terrain characterized by rolling hills and native vegetation.
The recreation area offers a variety of camping options, including electric plus and basic sites spread across three main campgrounds: Homestead Knolls, Nunda Shoal, and Valley View Flat. Each campground is equipped with amenities such as shower houses, mature shade trees, potable water, and modern restrooms.
At Hannaman Bayou and Valley View Flat campgrounds, campers will find basic non-pad sites with access to essential services like water and restrooms. Valley View Flat also features a group campground that can accommodate up to eight tents, with reservations available for this particular area.
Beach camping is strictly prohibited at Calamus SRA. Campers interested in staying at the electrical sites can make reservations up to one year in advance for half of these spots. All other camping remains strictly first-come, first-served, and fees must be registered at an Iron Ranger—a raised, locked box for depositing camping fees, available in cash or check.
To learn more about Calamus State Recreation Area, visit outdoornebraska.gov.