Mormon Island Sra
00 review7425 S US Hwy 281, Doniphan, Nebraska, 68832-9526, United States
Mormon Island Sra
$20.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$45.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 off-season for electric sites to $45 for premium sites with hookups and non-resident daily park entry fee. Nebraska Park Permit fees apply: Residents $30/year or $8/day; Non-residents $45/year or $12/day.
About this campground
Discover a modern oasis where history meets convenience at Mormon Island State Recreation Area. This pristine campground seamlessly blends contemporary amenities with Nebraska's pioneer heritage, offering spacious sites with electrical hookups, clean restrooms, and inviting picnic areas throughout the grounds. As a jewel in Nebraska's renowned 'Chain of Lakes,' Mormon Island provides the perfect basecamp for water enthusiasts and history buffs alike, where every sunset reminds you of the countless travelers who've found respite in this same landscape.
Mormon Island SRA accommodates a variety of camping preferences with options for tent camping, RV camping, and improved sites. Group camping and luxury glamping options are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of pioneers at this historically rich destination, where Mormon emigrants once sought shelter during their arduous westward journey. These resilient travelers chose this very spot as their winter haven, finding refuge among the protective trees and life-giving waters before continuing their quest for a new homeland. Today's campground honors this legacy, inviting modern adventurers to pause and reflect on the courage and determination that shaped America's western expansion.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct camping seasons at Mormon Island, each painting the landscape in its own palette. Winter transforms the area into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures that demand cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. As spring awakens the wetlands, mild temperatures create perfect conditions for wildlife watching and leisurely hikes. Summer brings warm, humid days ideal for splashing in the lakes and lazy afternoon picnics. But many seasoned campers favor fall's crisp air and comfortable temperatures, when the changing foliage creates a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures.
ElevationNestled in Nebraska's gently rolling terrain, Mormon Island offers accessible camping for adventurers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a diverse ecosystem where sparkling lakes mirror endless Nebraska skies and wetlands teem with life. Native wildflowers carpet the meadows in seasonal displays of color, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds to this natural sanctuary. Well-maintained trails wind through the landscape, revealing intimate views of the interconnected lakes and glimpses of the mighty Platte River beyond. Each path promises new discoveries, from hidden coves perfect for quiet contemplation to elevated viewpoints where you can watch the sun paint the water in shades of gold.
Geological RegionMormon Island anchors Nebraska's spectacular 'Chain of Lakes,' a remarkable series of water bodies that parallel Interstate 80 like sapphires on a necklace. This unique geological treasure emerged from careful development that transformed the landscape into a recreational paradise. The interconnected lakes and thriving wetlands create a rich tapestry of aquatic habitats, making this region a vital stopover for migratory birds and a year-round haven for water-loving wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap-accessible spots with concrete slabs are available. Restrooms are noted to be accessible.
Sites SizeRV sites are described as large and spacious. Tent sites are generously spaced and shaded.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy. Tent camping areas are shaded and provide adequate separation, but some sites, particularly RV pull-offs, are described as being very close to each other, with limited privacy.
Total Campsites180 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect Cottonwood Campground for paved roads and convenience to the dump station. Tent sites offer ample trees and shade for hammocks.
Best CampsitesCottonwood Campground recommended for its paved roads and level site pads. Cedarwood has gravel roads and pads, plus pay showers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4p.m.
Check-out
2p.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 180 days per year, reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits not specified. Tent sites are spacious and suitable for families.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFeatures Cottonwood Campground with paved sites and Cedarwood Campground with gravel pads. Sites are generally spacious but some may lack shade.
Open and Closed SeasonModern camping facilities open from May through mid-October (weather permitting). Year-round camping available with off-season rates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at OutdoorNebraska.org or by contacting park personnel.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites available, with varying levels of occupancy described in user reviews. Some areas not crowded, especially on weekdays.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must retain the original arrival date. No cancellation of arrival date allowed if reservation made one year in advance.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Mormon Island State Recreation Area offers diverse activities, including fishing, hiking, swimming, non-motorized boating, and wildlife observation. The park is also popular for bird watching, particularly during the sandhill crane migration, as well as tranquil recreational pursuits like picnicking and photography.
Hiking
"Nice walking trail, laundry and sites." The campground has mowed pathways around the lakes and a concrete trail connecting the Cottonwood Campground to the check-in station. Trails are suited for casual walks.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the small lakes and a branch of the Platte River. Fish species include largemouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, and bluegill.Swimming
Swimming is allowed at a marked beach that is described as clean and well-maintained. The beach includes changing houses and is suitable for children.Boating
Boating facilities include a ramp, and non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing is supported. Electric motorboats are also allowed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, especially during the sandhill crane migration in spring. A variety of geese, ducks, and other waterfowl can also be observed.Beach activities
Beach-related activities include swimming and sunbathing. The beach is clean and well-maintained.Winter Activities
Winter rates apply for camping when modern facilities close, but specific winter activities aren't mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings provided at campsites. Campfires allowed within designated fire grates.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsTraffic noise from nearby Interstate 80 is significant, especially at night. Some areas have uneven ground with slopes requiring careful trailer placement.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 0.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
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
Within 10 miles: Emergency Services and Hospital in Grand Island.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing from May to mid-October.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but some users have suggested the need for more dumpsters to handle the waste effectively.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to small lakes with fishing and swimming opportunities. A branch of the Platte River runs through the area.
Common complaintsInterstate traffic noise is commonly noted as a drawback, along with issues such as lack of Wi-Fi, pay showers in Cedarwood, and absence of stall doors in some restrooms.
HostCampground host described as attentive and friendly in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
7425 S US Hwy 281, Doniphan, Nebraska, 68832-9526, United States
Driving directionsMormon Island SRA - Interstate 80, Grand Island Interchange, Exit 312
Situated right off I-80 on the north side of the highway just before Grand Island. Easy access from the Grand Island interchange (Exit 312). Roads are paved with accessibility suitable for all vehicles.Nearby places
Grand Island (approx. 10 miles), Gibbon (approx. 20 miles)
Nearby supplies
Within 1 mile: Dining, fuel stations, convenience store near park entrance. Within 10 miles: Grocery store, shopping areas, retail stores in Grand Island.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Mormon Island Sra has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Mormon Island SRA are mixed, with many praising its cleanliness, range of amenities, and accessibility. However, proximity to Interstate 80 results in noticeable noise, and some sites lack privacy.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
"Exceptionally clean and well-maintained" facilities. Spacious, shaded campsites and convenient amenities like laundry and dump stations. The park's accessibility and proximity to I-80 make it ideal...
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Common Concerns
Traffic noise from Interstate 80 is a common issue. Some campsites are described as too close to each other, lacking privacy. Complaints about outdated payment systems and the absence of stall doors...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Consider bringing exact cash for park permits. Opt for Cottonwood Campground for free showers. If privacy is important, carefully select your campsite. A Nebraska Park Permit is mandatory.
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during peak travel seasons (summer and spring crane migration). Winter rates make it affordable outside peak season, but some facilities may be closed.
Camper Quotes
"This is a really nice park...clean and well-maintained." "The bathrooms were always clean and had toilet paper." "Our site was very level and within easy distance to the dump station."
Site-Specific Reviews
Tent sites are described as spacious and shaded, while RV pull-throughs are convenient but lack privacy. Cottonwood Campground offers paved roads, while Cedarwood has gravel roads and paid showers.
Accessibility Features
Handicap spots with concrete slabs are well-appreciated. Bathrooms are accessible, but the lack of stall doors was noted as inconvenient.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must be leashed. One reviewer mentioned discomfort from being watched by other campers when walking their dogs.
Last updated August 10, 2025