Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area
00 reviewP.O. Box 65, Gering, Nebraska, 69341, United States
Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area
$15.00 - $27.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$27.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Entrance fee ($12) applies to all vehicles. Primitive camping fees range from $15 for residents to $27 for non-residents.
About this campground
Perched atop ancient rocky escarpments, Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area beckons adventurers with its dramatic landscape of pine-scented canyons and sweeping vistas. Winding hiking trails lead through rugged terrain to spectacular observation decks, where the entire North Platte River Valley unfolds below like a living map. At the heart of the park, an engaging nature center brings the area's rich ecology to life through hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that captivate visitors of all ages.
Camping at Wildcat Hills is primarily primitive, with basic campsites and one designated group camping area that can accommodate up to 40 people. "Primitive camping" is a recurring descriptor in user reviews, underscoring the minimal facilities available.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time among the park's Depression-era stone structures, masterfully crafted by WPA workers who transformed this rugged wilderness into an accessible retreat. These enduring facilities stand as monuments to American ingenuity, continuing to welcome generations of families who have made pilgrimages to these hills. Local communities have cherished this highland sanctuary for decades, creating traditions and memories among the pines and rocky outcrops.
Weather and SeasonsThe Wildcat Hills embrace a high plains climate where crisp, dry air dominates most of the year. Late spring paints the landscape in vibrant greens under azure skies, while early autumn brings golden light and comfortable temperatures perfect for exploration. Though winter's chill and summer's heat can be intense, the cooler months occasionally surprise with refreshing rains that awaken the canyon's hidden wildflowers.
ElevationRising dramatically from the surrounding plains, this highland sanctuary crowns a majestic rocky escarpment that commands the landscape. The park's elevated position creates a natural sky island where cool mountain breezes meet prairie winds, offering visitors a refreshing escape from the valley floor below.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has sculpted the Wildcat Hills into a masterpiece of contrasts where weathered rock formations emerge from forests of ponderosa pine and Rocky Mountain juniper. Deep canyons carve through the rugged terrain, their shaded depths harboring diverse wildlife and rare plants. From rocky promontories, panoramic views stretch endlessly across the North Platte River Valley, revealing a tapestry of river bends, agricultural lands, and distant horizons that shift in color with each passing hour.
Geological RegionThe dramatic Wildcat Hills showcase millions of years of geological artistry, where ancient seas and erosion have carved a landscape of towering escarpments and hidden canyons. These rocky highlands rise defiantly from the plains, their sedimentary layers telling stories of prehistoric oceans and vanished ecosystems. Evergreen forests cling to steep canyon walls and crown weathered ridges, creating a unique ecosystem where mountain and prairie species mingle in surprising harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are discussed, making it unclear how accessible the campground is for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites appear to be standard, accommodating up to eight people in most cases.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly mentioned, but the lack of shading and the shooting range proximity may compromise privacy.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid weekends due to shooting range noise; choose shaded sites if possible.
Best CampsitesNot explicitly stated.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit not explicitly stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Basic sites allow up to 8 people
- group sites allow up to 40 people.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 40 people and is labeled as a 'GROUP AREA.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are scattered; includes individual and group camping areas.
Open and Closed SeasonNo explicit details provided.
Reservation PlatformsNot explicitly stated.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyNo explicit details provided.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Wildcat Hills offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to wildlife viewing. "Beautiful views and great hiking trails," one reviewer notes, emphasizing the variety of trails, including easy meadow paths and moderate trails through valleys and woods. The park is also noted for birdwatching and a shooting range, though the latter is a source of contention due to noise.
Hiking
The park features approximately 3 miles of hiking trails accessible from campsites. Trails vary in difficulty: "There are easy trails thru the meadows and medium trails thru the valleys and woods." Reviewers frequently praise the hiking, though one critic notes the trails need maintenance and expressed a desire for bike-specific paths.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to diverse bird species, prairie dogs, squirrels, and occasional deer sightings. One reviewer highlights, "Most of the wildlife are squirrels, birds, and prairie dogs. You may see a deer." Additionally, bird feeders are present, enhancing opportunities for birdwatching.Cultural and Educational Programs
The on-site Nature Center features interactive and educational displays, including taxidermied animals, bird models, and an active honeybee hive with clear walls for observation. Hands-on activities for children add to the educational value.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though seasonal weather may impact usability during colder months.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned in the materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Not explicitly stated.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsNoise from the shooting range is frequently mentioned in reviews as disruptive to the natural ambiance.
Active alertsExhibit hall at the visitor center is undergoing renovations; no other advisories noted.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 90%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 11.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station: 3084363777.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source material.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features mentioned; no waterfront sites available.
Common complaintsNoise from the shooting range is a recurring issue; some sites lack shade.
HostNo details provided about campground hosts.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 65, Gering, Nebraska, 69341, United States
Driving directionsEast side of Nebraska Hwy 71, south of Gering, Nebraska about 10 miles.
Easily accessible, situated along Nebraska Highway 71.Nearby places
Scottsbluff (approximately 10 miles), Lake Minatare State Recreation Area (approximately 30 miles), Chimney Rock (approximately 30 miles), Riverside Zoo (approximately 30 miles).
Nearby supplies
null
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area generally receives praise for its hiking trails, panoramic views, and wildlife. However, the campground itself is considered basic and draws criticism for its proximity to a noisy shooting range and lack of amenities. "Beautiful views and great hiking trails," says one reviewer, balancing positive natural aspects with practical complaints.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers highlight the park's scenic hiking trails, abundant birdwatching opportunities, and well-maintained Nature Center. The observation decks offer sweeping views of the North Platte River...
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Common Concerns
The shooting range near the camping area is a frequent source of frustration, with one reviewer stating, "The worst thing is having a shooting range as a part of the park... It's not terribly...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Avoid weekends if the shooting range noise is a concern. Bring your own shade structures and water, as there is no mention of potable water or shaded sites. The Nature Center is a must-visit for...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight blooming desert flora and bird activity, while winter reviews focus on the inconvenience of limited amenities amid harsher weather conditions.
Camper Quotes
"Camping $15+$12 = $27 per night (non-residents) for a primitive site with no shade. Double fee for no amenities?" (Evgenii Vasilev). "Lovely place to hike with maintained fabulous old WPA...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Group sites (G1, G2, G3, Group Camping) accommodate up to 8 or 40 people, depending on the site. Wildcat Hills loop sites (01-12) are basic, with no hookups but allow pets.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features or experiences for users with disabilities are not mentioned.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at all sites, as noted in the campsite data.
Last updated August 10, 2025