Calamus Sra

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42285 York Point Road, Burwell, Nebraska, 68823, United States

Quick Facts

Price

$7 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

177 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Allowed

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Direct Line site

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Calamus Sra
$7.00 - $70.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary based on vehicle type and camping options. Nebraska Licensed Vehicle Park Entry Permit costs $35 annually or $17.50 for a duplicate permit,...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$45.00

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Provider
3083465666

What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 0 reviews

494 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanwaterbeachfriendly

"Reviews of Calamus SRA highlight the area's natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, excellent fishing, and sandy beaches. However, some criticisms include the lack of hiking trails, accessibility issues, and high camping fees."

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Fees & Passes at Calamus Sra

$7 - $70/night

Campsite fees

Standard Site

Basic tent/RV spot

$30/night

Cancellation: Reservations made 180 days in advance cannot alter the arrival date. Early check-outs forfeit unused...

Prices verified August 10, 2025

Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Direct Line website.

Best Time to Camp at Calamus Sra

Each season paints Calamus in distinct colors and moods. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the hills and temperatures dipping well below freezing. As spring awakens the prairie, wildflowers burst into bloom under clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Summer brings warm days perfect for water activities, with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 87°F accompanied by refreshing afternoon rains. Fall arrives with crisp air and golden grasses, creating ideal conditions for those seeking the perfect camping weather without summer crowds.

Spring (Mar-May)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.

Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.

Planning Tips

    About Calamus Sra

    Nestled in the heart of Nebraska's iconic Sandhills, Calamus State Recreation Area invites adventurers to discover 5,124 acres of shimmering reservoir waters surrounded by endless rolling prairie. This outdoor paradise seamlessly blends water-based recreation with the tranquil beauty of native grasslands, offering camping experiences that range from lakeside relaxation to hilltop vistas under star-filled skies.
    Calamus SRA caters to a range of campers with modern, primitive, and group camping options. It is suitable for tents, RVs, and campers seeking basic amenities.
    Historical SignificanceBeyond its natural splendor, Calamus tells the story of Nebraska's conservation heritage through the fascinating Calamus State Fish Hatchery. Visitors can embark on self-guided tours through this working facility, discovering the intricate process of raising fish while exploring educational displays that connect the past, present, and future of the region's aquatic ecosystems.
    Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Calamus in distinct colors and moods. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the hills and temperatures dipping well below freezing. As spring awakens the prairie, wildflowers burst into bloom under clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Summer brings warm days perfect for water activities, with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 87°F accompanied by refreshing afternoon rains. Fall arrives with crisp air and golden grasses, creating ideal conditions for those seeking the perfect camping weather without summer crowds.
    Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape at Calamus reads like a love letter to the Great Plains. The massive reservoir serves as the centerpiece, its waters reflecting endless Nebraska skies while providing a stark contrast to the surrounding sea of native grasses that ripple like waves in the wind. Wildflowers paint splashes of color across the rolling hills each spring and summer, while the diverse habitat attracts an impressive array of wildlife. Early morning campers often wake to the gobble of wild turkeys, while throughout the day, countless bird species fill the air with their songs, making every visit a front-row seat to nature's daily performance.
    Geological RegionCalamus State Recreation Area showcases the unique beauty of Nebraska's Sandhills region, where ancient wind-blown sands have created a landscape unlike anywhere else in North America. The gently undulating terrain, now stabilized by a carpet of native grasses and forbs, surrounds the expansive 5,124-acre reservoir. This remarkable setting encompasses 4,958 acres of protected land, preserving one of the world's most ecologically distinct grassland ecosystems while offering visitors a chance to experience the raw beauty of the American heartland.
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    Campsite details

    AccessibilitySome complaints about accessibility issues are noted, particularly in the Nunda Shoal campground where a host was unhelpful to ADA campers. However, efforts were made to assist campers in other parts of the site.
    Sites SizeCampsites include a mix of modern, improved pads and primitive non-pad sites, accommodating RVs and tents.
    Sites PrivacyVaried levels of privacy; some sites are described as spacious and shaded, while others lack sufficient privacy, especially for hammock campers.
    Total Campsites177 campsites
    Recommended CampsitesValley View offers peaceful settings and calm waters, while Homestead is preferred for its improved campground host experience.

    Best Campsites

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    Reserving a campsite

    Check-in
    4p.m.
    Check-out
    2p.m.
    Groups
    No detailed description about group sites is available.
    Tents
    Tents are allowed
    RV vehicles
    RV vehicles are allowed
    Primitive
    Primitive are allowed
    Reservable
    Reservations are allowed
    Site layoutCampground includes pad and non-pad sites with loops and sections. Nunda Shoal and Valley View are specific campgrounds within the area.
    Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at OutdoorNebraska.org.
    Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews suggest high demand during peak seasons such as Labor Day weekend, with limited availability for walk-up reservations.
    Cancellation PolicyReservations made 180 days in advance cannot alter the arrival date. Early check-outs forfeit unused payments.

    Amenities available

    Showers
    Potable water
    Fire rings
    Picnic tables
    Dump station
    Firewood available
    Flush toilets
    Vault toilets
    Electricity hookups
    Camp Store

    Activities you can enjoy

    Recreational opportunities at Calamus SRA are centered around the expansive reservoir and nature. Key activities include fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and swimming at the sandy beaches. Additional options include hiking, hunting, and exploring the fish hatchery.
    Hiking
    There is a short 1.06-mile nature trail offering lake views, but some users mention the lack of additional hiking opportunities as a drawback. Caution is advised due to cacti on the trail.
    Fishing
    Fishing is one of the primary activities, with visitors reporting good catches, especially early in the morning and late in the evening. Both the reservoir and river are suitable for fishing.
    Swimming
    The sandy beaches provide excellent swimming opportunities, with gradual depth increases making it family-friendly.
    Boating
    Boating is a major activity, with boat ramps and dock slips provided. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are supported.
    Wildlife viewing
    Visitors frequently report sightings of diverse bird species and other wildlife, including turkeys. The area is noted for its scenic beauty and opportunities for wildlife observation.
    Beach activities
    The sandy beaches are ideal for sunbathing and leisure. Some visitors describe them as 'white sandy beaches' with a coastal feel.
    Cultural and Educational Programs
    The Calamus State Fish Hatchery offers self-guided tours and educational displays about fish raising and local wildlife.
    Winter Activities
    No specific winter activities are mentioned in the provided materials.
    Water Sports
    Water skiing, kayaking, jet skiing, and other water sports are popular activities enabled by the large reservoir.
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    Campground rules

    • Pets are allowed
    • Campfires are generally allowed except during windy conditions, with Scott Tharp noting restrictions due to high winds during his stay.
    • Quiet hours are strictly enforced from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

    Hazards

    General hazardsPotential hazards include cacti along trails and blue algae conditions in the lake, as noted by Kristen McNally. Cactus thorns can impact pets, requiring leather gloves for removal.

    Weather at Calamus Sra

    29
    °F
    Dec 7
    Sunday
    Overcast
    Precipitation: 0%

    Strong wind, exercise caution

    Humidity: 84%

    High humidity, may feel muggy

    Wind: 10.4 mph

    Strong wind, exercise caution

    Overcast
    Weather History
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    Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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    Emergency Services

    Emergency services are located more than 10 miles away, including a hospital and medical clinic.

    Good to know

    Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present and the campground is described as well-maintained. No further specifics are provided about pickup schedules or locations.
    Proximity to water featuresSituated near Calamus Reservoir, the campground provides direct access to the lake, river streams, and beaches.
    Common complaintsFrequent complaints include poor road conditions, lack of hiking trails, and occasional issues with campground hosts. For instance, Jeff Willson highlighted problems with road conditions and host behavior.
    HostCampground hosts are available but have mixed reviews, with complaints about unprofessional behavior at the Nunda Shoal campground.

    Campground Map

    42285 York Point Road, Burwell, Nebraska, 68823, United States
    Driving directionsThe Calamus SRA is located 6 miles NW on HWY #96 from the West edge of Burwell.
    Roads in the area have mixed reviews. Official sources note the campground is accessible via paved roads off Highway #96. However, user reviews highlight issues with poor road conditions in some areas. For instance, Jeff Willson noted, "The roads and paved areas are terrible!"
    Nearby supplies
    Supplies such as groceries, propane, and camping essentials are available within 10 miles.

    Reviews from booking and map sources

    0.0
    0 reviews
    Limited Reviews
    Limited Reviews
    Calamus Sra has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
    Reviews of Calamus SRA highlight the area's natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, excellent fishing, and sandy beaches. However, some criticisms include the lack of hiking trails, accessibility issues, and high camping fees.
    Review Summaries

    What Campers Love

    Clean and well-maintained facilities, beautiful sandy beaches, excellent access to water activities, family-friendly atmosphere, and abundant wildlife.

    Common Concerns

    High camping fees, lack of hiking trails, reports of unhelpful staff, occasional overcrowding, and inadequate signage for water conditions such as blue algae.

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Bring leather gloves for handling cacti while hiking. Plan camping trips during less crowded times to secure better spots. Ensure you have specific coins for showers.

    Seasonal Insights

    Summer months are popular for water activities but can be crowded. Spring and fall offer more tranquil experiences. Winter activities are not detailed.

    Camper Quotes

    "Five-star if you have a fishing boat. If you are into hiking, this likely is not the park for you." - Rob. "The beach all along Calamus Reservoir is excellent. We will definitely camp here again." -...
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    Site-Specific Reviews

    Nunda Shoal campground receives mixed reviews, with some appreciating its spaciousness and others citing poor staff interaction. Homestead campground is noted as better-maintained.

    Accessibility Features

    Complaints about unhelpful staff for ADA campers; however, facilities are generally described as well-maintained.

    Pet-Friendly Features

    Pets are allowed but caution is advised on hiking trails due to cacti.

    Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers

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    Last updated August 10, 2025
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