Soldier Creek Campground

Star4.25
26 reviews
125 N Main St Chadron, NE 69337
Soldier Creek Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Single campsite fee is $15/night for one vehicle; additional vehicle costs $7.50/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass provides a 50% discount for single campsites occupied by pass holders.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
308-432-0300

About this campground

Nestled in a pristine wilderness setting, Soldier Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic outdoor experience without sacrificing essential comforts. Each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under starlit skies. Fresh drinking water flows from hand-pump stations throughout the grounds, while clean vault toilets ensure convenience during your stay. Whether you're saddling up for an equestrian adventure, lacing up hiking boots for wilderness exploration, or simply craving a peaceful retreat in nature, this campground serves as your ideal basecamp for discovery.
Soldier Creek Campground offers standard tent and RV camping options, with additional amenities for equestrian use.
Historical SignificanceStep into the pages of American frontier history at Soldier Creek, where echoes of military campaigns and pioneer determination still resonate across the landscape. The nearby Fort Robinson State Park stands as a testament to the region's pivotal role in westward expansion, offering visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of cavalry soldiers, Native American leaders, and homesteaders who shaped the destiny of the Great Plains. This storied ground invites modern explorers to connect with the courage and resilience of those who came before.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Nebraska's dynamic climate at Soldier Creek, where each season paints the landscape with its own distinctive palette. Summer days invite endless exploration with comfortable temperatures and sun-drenched skies, while evenings bring a refreshing coolness perfect for campfire stories. As autumn arrives, crisp air and occasional rainfall transform the surroundings into a tapestry of changing colors. Winter adventurers will find a quieter campground blanketed in occasional snow, with temperatures that can dip below freezing—ideal for those who appreciate the stark beauty of a prairie winter. Spring awakens the landscape with gentle rains and warming days, though evenings still call for an extra layer around the fire.
ElevationPerched at 4,100 feet above sea level, Soldier Creek Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat while providing spectacular vantage points across the surrounding wilderness. This elevated position creates a unique microclimate where afternoon warmth gives way to pleasantly cool evenings—perfect for comfortable sleeping under canvas. The altitude contributes to the area's renowned mild weather patterns, making it an ideal destination for those seeking respite from extreme temperatures found at lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking convergence of ecosystems that defines Soldier Creek Campground. Here, the vast Nebraska National Forests meet sweeping grasslands in a stunning display of natural diversity. Ancient prairie grasses wave in the wind alongside stands of ponderosa pine, while the gentle murmur of natural water bodies provides a soothing soundtrack to your stay. Bordering the pristine Soldier Creek Wilderness, the campground offers front-row seats to one of Nebraska's most spectacular natural theaters, where wooded glens give way to expansive vistas and hidden streams carve their stories through the landscape.
Geological RegionDiscover a remarkable geological crossroads where the Nebraska National Forests embrace the untamed beauty of Soldier Creek Wilderness. This unique region showcases nature's artistry through its diverse tapestry of prairie grasslands punctuated by forested islands and sculpted by meandering waterways. The landscape tells an ancient story of geological forces that created this extraordinary blend of ecosystems—from wind-swept plains to sheltered woodlands, each harboring its own collection of flora and fauna. Water bodies scattered throughout the region reflect the sky and sustain the rich biodiversity that makes this corner of Nebraska a true natural treasure.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe vault toilets are wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeThe sites can accommodate standard-sized camping equipment and horse trailers. There are areas large enough for RVs.
Sites PrivacyWith a semi-dispersed feel, the campground provides a wilderness-like experience with some designated sites.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded spots for summer camping, such as site 49 for morning shade.
Best CampsitesSite 1 provides direct trail access; other sites noted for proximity to creek and shade.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
No specific group camping sites or descriptions provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutTwo main spurs with sites dispersed near creek confluence.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round. Seasonal snow drifting may temporarily close campground in winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made in advance.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly outlined.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers activities centered around its natural setting and equestrian facilities. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy horseback riding, and engage in fishing.
Hiking
Two major trails originate from the campground: Boots & Saddle Trail (7.1 miles) and Trooper Trail Loop (9.7 miles). These trails are suitable for both foot and horse use.
Fishing
Fishing is available, with trout being a notable catch in the area.
Winter Activities
Drifting snow may temporarily close the campground during the winter.
Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are available.

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires allowed within designated fire rings.
  • Quiet hours are Not specified.

Hazards

General hazardsWinter snow drifting can make roads inaccessible. Seasonal wasps and flies are common, with some campers noting goat head weeds as a nuisance.
Active alertsNo current active alerts documented.

Weather forecast

66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 68%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 8.7 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky
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.

Subscribe to unlock detailed weather insights

Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest emergency services available in Crawford, NE (8 miles away).

Good to know

Peak season datesNot specified.
Trash and recyclingGarbage cans are available, but recycling facilities are not mentioned. The campground follows a pack-it-in/pack-it-out policy.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near South Fork and Middle Fork Soldier Creek. Water spigot available through hand pump.
Common complaintsSome users reported wasps, flies, and goat heads at campsites. Complaints about cracked picnic tables and lack of privacy between campsites.
HostHosts are occasionally seen making rounds but not consistently available.

Campground Map

125 N Main St Chadron, NE 69337
Driving directionsFrom Crawford, NE take U.S. Highway 20 for 2.5 miles to Fort Robinson, then north on Soldier Creek Road for 6 miles. Note: A low-water bridge is located just before the entrance to the campground.
Access via paved highway followed by gravel road. May encounter low-water bridge just before campground entrance.
Nearby places
Crawford (8 miles, ~15 mins), Fort Robinson State Park (6 miles, ~10 mins)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including fuel, groceries, and camping goods, available at Crawford, NE (8 miles away).

Camper Reviews

4.3
26 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Soldier Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, equestrian focus, and clean facilities. Some users noted the rustic and semi-dispersed feel of the campground, while others mentioned concerns over site privacy and pest issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviewers praised the scenic natural setting and proximity to trails, as well as the clean condition of the restrooms. The equestrian facilities (corrals and 15 paddocks) were also appreciated.
Based on 26 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users raised concerns about the lack of privacy between sites, pest issues such as wasps and flies, and the absence of amenities such as showers and full RV hookups. Goat heads (prickly plants)...
Show more
Based on 26 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring certified weed-free hay for stock animals. If using RVs, consider using the waste station at Fort Robinson State Park. Also, be prepared for pests such as wasps and bring appropriate repellents.
Based on 26 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is described as quieter during the week and busier on weekends, with drifting snow potentially impacting access during winter.
Based on 26 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The campground has a semi-dispersed feel, like camping in the wilderness but with a few amenities." "The corrals and paddocks were ideal for horse camping." "The wasps and flies made eating outside...
Show more
Based on 26 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 3 was noted to lack shade and had a damaged picnic table. Sites were described as close together, reducing privacy.
Based on 26 reviews

Accessibility Features

A reviewer noted that the vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, which was appreciated by a handicapped visitor.
Based on 26 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but users should be cautious about goat heads that can harm dogs' paws.
Based on 26 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands
Soldier Creek Campground