How much does camping cost at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area range from $15-$23/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area?

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area is open Not explicitly stated, though user reviews indicate higher water levels and activity in spring and summer.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area?

Yes, Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area have?

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area has 117 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area?

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area include Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area: Not explicitly stated but likely includes common fire policies for state parks.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.12

43 reviews

79025 Sherman Dam Road, Loup City, Nebraska, 68853, United States

Summer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Nebraska#2 Family-Friendly Campgrounds Nebraska#2 Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Nebraska +5 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,231 ft

Price

$15 - $23/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

117 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Sherman Reservoir SRA Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,231 ft

Price

$15 - $23/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

117 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Sherman Reservoir SRA Official Website

Get Directions

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area

$15.00 - $23.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campground fees range from $15 for primitive sites to $23 for electric sites ($15 camping fee plus $8 daily use fee).

Standard Site Fee$15.00

Hookup Site Fee$23.00

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Provider

3087450230

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

79025 Sherman Dam Road, Loup City, Nebraska, 68853, United States

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area

79025 Sherman Dam Road, Loup City, Nebraska, 68853, United States

Nearby places

Loup City is approximately 5 miles away (about 10 minutes), Ashton is 8 miles away (about 15 minutes), and Calamus State Recreation Area is less than an hour's drive.

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in nearby Loup City, which also has a city park, pool, and modern lodging options. Supplies may also be available at Trade Winds Marina.

Driving directionsFrom Loup City - 4 miles east on 790th Road, then 1 mile north on Sherman Dam Road. From Ashton - 4 miles west on NE-92, north 1 mile on 480th Road, west 1.5 miles on 790th Road, then 1 mile north on Sherman Dam Road.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, though some user reviews mention narrow and poorly maintained roads in certain areas. Accessibility may be impacted by weather conditions or heavy traffic during peak times.

Weather at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area

Fall delivers the best camping window. September and October bring daytime highs in the 50s to 70s with crisp nights, fewer crowds than summer weekends, and productive fishing as cooler water concentrates gamefish near shore. Migrating birds and golden prairie grasses peak in autumn. Spring can be windy but good for sailing. Summer gets hot with minimal shade, though it's the busiest season for swimming and water sports. Winter sees snow and freezing temps but remains open for hardy campers.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is noted as the best camping window: cooler temps, fewer crowds and productive fishing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not explicitly stated, though user reviews indicate higher water levels and activity in spring and summer.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round, though services such as showers may only operate seasonally.

About Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area sits on 7,566 acres of central Nebraska prairie, centered on a 2,845-acre lake popular for fishing and boating. The campground offers 117 sites ranging from primitive tent spots to full-hookup RV sites and cabin lodging, with nightly fees from $15 to $23. West Ridge loop sites accommodate rigs up to 60 feet.

Sherman Reservoir offers a variety of camping options, including primitive, RV, and tent camping, along with cabins for rent.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best camping window. September and October bring daytime highs in the 50s to 70s with crisp nights, fewer crowds than summer weekends, and productive fishing as cooler water concentrates gamefish near shore. Migrating birds and golden prairie grasses peak in autumn. Spring can be windy but good for sailing. Summer gets hot with minimal shade, though it's the busiest season for swimming and water sports. Winter sees snow and freezing temps but remains open for hardy campers.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of central Nebraska creates natural vantage points throughout the recreation area, offering sweeping views across the water and surrounding countryside.

Natural Features and SceneryThe reservoir sprawls across rolling prairie hills at 2,231 feet elevation, surrounded by 4,721 acres of mixed grassland and agricultural land. Tree cover is sparse in most areas, which means big sky views but limited natural shade. Shoreline erosion has created dramatic cutbanks in places. The open terrain offers unobstructed lake views from higher sites, though it leaves many campers exposed to wind and sun.

Geological RegionNestled in the heart of central Nebraska's iconic rolling prairie landscape, Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area showcases the region's characteristic blend of agricultural heritage and natural beauty. This vast 7,566-acre playground demonstrates how water and land harmonize in the Great Plains, where gentle hills meet expansive waters to create a recreational oasis amidst the traditional farming country.

Scenic ViewsSeveral campsites, including Thunder Bay sites 2 and 3, offer lake views and shade in the late afternoon.

Lodging & AccommodationsCabins are available for rental, managed by the local concessionaire. However, a user review highlights issues with cabin maintenance, including burnt-out bulbs and a malfunctioning air conditioner.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs were mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not explicitly stated.

Check-out

Not explicitly stated.

Stay Limit

Not explicitly stated in the sources.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 guests per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are arranged in loops with gravel pads and decent spacing between neighbors, though the lack of trees means visual privacy suffers in most areas. Fire pits sit near the road rather than at the back of sites, which some campers find awkward. West Ridge loop handles larger rigs. Water access is limited if you don't have a boat.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can likely be made through local concessionaire or official state park systems, but specific platforms are not mentioned.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated, though some user reviews imply availability of first-come, first-served sites.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not specified in the authoritative sources.

AccessibilityAccessible boat docks are available, but no additional accessibility details regarding campsites or restrooms were provided.

Site SizeSites in the West Ridge loop accommodate equipment up to 60 feet in length, making them suitable for larger RVs or trailers.

PrivacySites described as spacious. However, user reviews indicate that some sites lack sufficient privacy due to minimal tree cover.

Total Campsites117 campsites

Recommended SitesTrees aren't tall enough to provide any more shade to the entire campground" (Barbara Cherek). For privacy and quiet, the secluded coves at the southwest end of the lake are recommended.

Best CampsitesThunder Bay sites 2 and 3 get lake views and some shade. Site 3 catches natural shade during the afternoon. Site 7 sits at the top of the hill with evening shade. Fisherman's Bridge area offers the best fishing access without a boat.

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Amenities available

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area offers extensive amenities ideal for family outings and recreational activities. The campground features 117 picnic tables, 80 grills, and 12 shelters to facilitate group activities or personal retreats. "Facilities include: picnic tables, shelters, water, dump station, modern restrooms, vault toilets, boat ramps, fish cleaning stations, coin-operated showers, and concession." There are accessible boat docks and cabins available for rentals, managed by the local concessionaire.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Sherman Reservoir offers a broad range of recreational opportunities, from water sports to wildlife viewing.

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alerts"Ground is so washed away couldn't even sit next to lake" (Steven Melleny). Narrow roads and lack of shade are potential hazards, along with occasional overcrowding and lack of water access.

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyNot explicitly stated but likely includes common fire policies for state parks.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not enforced adequately according to user reviews.

Trash & RecyclingOne user review indicated concerns about insufficient trash facilities, stating: "It would be nice if they had more than one dumpster, or some trash barrels."

Water FeaturesMany campsites are near Sherman Reservoir, but access to water for fishing and swimming is limited unless users have boats.

Camp Host"Everyone at the Marina is always super nice and very helpful" (Lea Bird).

Cell CoverageNo explicit mention of cell phone reception quality was made in the source materials.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.1

43 reviews

Satisfactory

Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Sherman Reservoir are mixed, with some praising its fishing and water activities while others criticize issues like noise, lack of access to water for non-boaters, and campground maintenance.

Review Summaries

Based on 43 reviews

What Campers Love

- Great fishing opportunities, especially at Fisherman's Bridge. - Spacious sites with late afternoon shade in certain areas. - Convenient access to a fish cleaning station and nearby marina. -...

Based on 43 reviews

Common Concerns

- Noise and lack of enforcement of quiet hours. - Limited access to the water for non-boaters. - Insufficient tree cover, leading to a lack of shade at many sites. - Maintenance issues in cabins,...

Based on 43 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Site #3 at Thunder Bay offers a lake view and late afternoon shade. - Site #7 on the top of the hill also provides evening shade.

Based on 43 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring a boat if you want to fully enjoy the water-based activities. - Choose sites with natural shade, such as site #3 at Thunder Bay. - Be prepared with a tarp and other rain protection for tent...

Based on 43 reviews

Seasonal Insights

- Summers are highly popular but can be crowded and noisy. - Fall is noted for primitive camping and better fishing conditions with lower water levels.

Based on 43 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Our favorite place in NE for primitive camping. The water levels were quite low this year, but the folks at the Marina are top-notch." – Scott Fuhrman. "Fisherman's Bridge [is] great for catching...

Based on 43 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and most sites accommodate them. However, no specific feedback on pet facilities was mentioned.

Based on 43 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Anglers with a boat get the most out of this place. Walleye and white bass are the draws, Fisherman's Bridge is the go-to spot, and fall weekends in September and October hit the sweet spot for cooler temps and concentrated fish. Site 3 at Thunder Bay has lake views and afternoon

Skip if

No boat means no real water access. Multiple reviewers confirmed you can't reach the shoreline for fishing or swimming from the campsites, and there are no hiking trails, no beach, and minimal shade on most sites when summer sun hits the open prairie.

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