Toadstool Geological Park And Campground
4.6289 reviewsSugarloaf Rd & Toadstool Rd, Crawford, NE 69339
Toadstool Geological Park And Campground
$3.00 - $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
Overnight camping is $15 per single campsite per night and includes day-use access. Additional vehicles cost $7.50 per night. Day-use fees are $3 per vehicle per day. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount for single campsites occupied by the pass holder only. Payment options include cash, check, or the Recreation.gov app.
About this campground
Venture into the otherworldly landscape of Toadstool Geological Park and Campground, where six secluded primitive sites await beneath a canvas of endless prairie sky. This remote wilderness sanctuary showcases nature's artistry through its namesake toadstool formations—ancient sandstone sculptures that rise from the earth like frozen mushrooms. Each campsite comes equipped with the essentials for authentic outdoor living: fire rings for evening gatherings, charcoal grills for hearty camp meals, and covered picnic tables offering shade from the high plains sun. Two vault toilets serve the campground, though adventurers should note that water must be packed in, as none is available on-site—a reminder of the untamed nature of this remarkable destination.
Toadstool Geological Park and Campground exclusively offers primitive camping with no RV hookups or developed facilities. The campground is ideal for those seeking a remote, off-the-grid experience.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the faithfully reconstructed sod house, where the Forest Service has preserved a slice of homesteading history. Built in 1984 as an exact replica of a 1929 settler's dwelling, this earthen structure whispers stories of the hardy pioneers who once carved lives from this unforgiving landscape. The surrounding badlands hold even older tales—millions of years of Earth's history written in stone and fossil. While these ancient treasures may catch your eye among the eroded formations, they must remain undisturbed, protected by law to ensure future generations can marvel at these windows into prehistoric worlds.
Weather and SeasonsThe high plains climate here tells a tale of extremes, where summer days blaze under an unforgiving sun that bakes the badlands into a palette of warm ochres and dusty grays. Winter transforms this lunar landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with occasional snowfall dusting the toadstool caps and creating ethereal scenes few visitors witness. Spring and fall offer the most temperate conditions, though sudden storms can sweep across the grasslands with little warning. The clay-rich roads become treacherous rivers of mud after rain, potentially stranding the unprepared—making weather awareness and extra water supplies not just recommendations, but essential elements of any visit.
ElevationPerched at 3,800 feet above sea level, the campground offers a natural respite from the heat of lower elevations, where cooling breezes sweep across the high prairie tablelands. From this vantage point, the world stretches endlessly in every direction, offering panoramic views that seem to touch the curve of the Earth itself. The elevation brings crisp mornings even in summer and star-filled nights of exceptional clarity, where the Milky Way blazes across the darkness undimmed by city lights.
Natural Features and SceneryWelcome to Nebraska's hidden moonscape, where millions of years of wind and water have carved a masterpiece from ancient seabeds. The iconic toadstool formations stand as sentinels throughout the badlands, their sandstone caps protecting softer clay pedestals in a delicate balance that defies time. Between these geological wonders, the landscape reveals a tapestry of colors—from bleached white clays to rust-red iron deposits, all framed by seas of native grassland that ripple like golden waves in the prairie wind. This is a photographer's paradise and a geologist's dream, where every sunrise paints the formations in new light and every sunset transforms the badlands into a realm of shadows and fire.
Geological RegionToadstool Geological Park sits within the vast Oglala National Grassland, a unique intersection where the Great Plains meet the dramatic Nebraska Badlands. This rare geological wonderland showcases the power of erosion through its signature toadstool formations—harder sandstone caps perched atop columns of softer Brule clay, creating whimsical shapes that seem plucked from a fairy tale. The surrounding badlands reveal layers of ancient history in their stratified walls, while native shortgrass prairie stretches between the formations, preserving the ecosystem that once supported massive herds of bison and the cultures that followed them across these endless grasslands.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo vault toilets are wheelchair accessible. Campsites are widely spaced with mowed grass to improve safety and accessibility.
Sites SizeStandard-sized primitive campsites designed to accommodate tents or small vehicles.
Sites PrivacyExcellent privacy due to wide spacing between sites.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure one of six first-come, first-served sites. Sites are widely spaced for privacy and include covered picnic tables and grills.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite ratings are provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
First-come, first-served, no specific check-in time.
Check-out
No specific check-out time.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limit is mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle-loop layout with six widely spaced sites, offering privacy and expansive views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Services are provided from May 15 through November 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll six sites are first-come, first-served. Visitors are advised to arrive early, especially during weekends and peak months.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy is specified as reservations are not permitted.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Toadstool Geological Park and Campground is a haven for geology enthusiasts and hikers, offering a variety of trails and scenic views of unique geological formations. Visitors can explore the trail systems, including the one-mile interpretive loop, the Bison Trail, and the Great Plains Trail. Stargazing is another popular activity due to the park's remote location and minimal light pollution.
Hiking
Three hiking trails originate at the campground: a one-mile interpretive loop showcasing geological formations, the three-mile Bison Trail leading to Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center, and a five-mile loop that connects to the Great Plains Trail. Trails range from easy to moderate and offer opportunities to explore eroded clay and sandstone formations.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
The gravel roads and trails are suitable for biking. A reviewer noted enjoying a bike ride on the Great Plains Trail.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as prairie jackrabbits and birds are commonly seen, with caution urged for snakes, including rattlesnakes.Cultural and Educational Programs
The interpretive kiosk and brochures provide educational information about the area's geology, fossil deposits, and grassland history. The nearby sod house offers insights into homesteader life.Winter Activities
During the winter, hiking may be possible, but access to the park may be limited due to snow or muddy roads.Water Sports
No water sports are available due to the lack of water features.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings. Visitors must adhere to fire safety guidelines.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPrairie rattlesnakes are common in the area. Wet roads can become slippery and dangerous. Visitors should be cautious of falling hazards near rock formations.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Crawford (Crawford Community Hospital) and Chadron (Chadron Community Hospital).
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates mentioned; service availability is May 15 through November 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available at each campsite. Separate containers for plastic, aluminum cans, and general garbage are provided. Rangers empty bins periodically.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby water features; potable water is not available.
Common complaintsVisitors frequently mention the lack of water, rough gravel roads, and occasional noise from nearby trains. Complaints about vault toilet cleanliness have also been noted.
HostNo campground host specified.
Campground Map
Sugarloaf Rd & Toadstool Rd, Crawford, NE 69339
Driving directionsIn Crawford, NE, at the intersection of State Routes 2/71 and US Route 20, take Routes 2/71 north 16.6 miles to the second Toadstool sign. Turn left after the sign onto Sugarloaf Rd (gravel, single-lane with few turnouts) and go 6.5 miles to another Toadstool sign. Turn left at the sign onto Toadstool Rd (gravel and dirt) and go 2 miles to campground sign. Turn right after the sign onto gravel road, crossing railroad tracks, and go 1.3 miles into campground. NOTE: Toadstool Rd can be very rough, with serious washboarding and potholes, south of the campground.
The roads are gravel and dirt, generally navigable for two-wheel-drive vehicles but may become slick and challenging during wet conditions. Extreme washboarding and potholes are common on Toadstool Rd south of the campground.Nearby places
Crawford (approximately 25 miles), Chadron (approximately 50 miles), Alliance (approximately 76 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Crawford, NE, and Chadron, NE, which offer groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.6
89 reviews
Toadstool Geological Park And Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The park is widely praised for its unique geological formations, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent stargazing opportunities. Common highlights include the well-maintained trails and the educational value of the interpretive signs and brochures. The remote location and primitive facilities are appreciated by campers seeking solitude and an immersive outdoor experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 89 reviews
What Campers Love
"Amazing views and geology," "Remote and peaceful," "Well-maintained," "Great stargazing," "Educational trails."
Based on 89 reviewsCommon Concerns
"No potable water," "Primitive facilities," "Windy conditions," "Occasional cleanliness issues with vault toilets," "Limited campsites."
Based on 89 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water, as there is none on-site. Arrive early to secure one of the six campsites, as they are first-come, first-serve. Prepare for windy conditions and pack earplugs to block train...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer visitors enjoy the clear skies and excellent stargazing but caution about the lack of shade and high temperatures. Fall offers cooler hiking conditions and fewer crowds, making it an ideal...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Like walking around on Mars!" — J Horn. "Amazing views of the stars at night." — Mike Farrell. "A gem in the middle of nowhere." — Tim Probst. "One of the darkest night skies I've seen outside of...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews frequently mention the campsites being well-maintained and spacious. Sites offer excellent privacy and are equipped with covered picnic tables, grills, and fire rings.
Based on 89 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features include two wheelchair-accessible vault toilets and mowed grass around campsites to enhance safety and reduce fire risks. No additional accessibility features for trails were...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, but they must be under control at all times. Pet owners are advised to keep an eye out for snakes on the trails.
Based on 89 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025