Smith Falls State Park
00 review90165 Smith Falls Rd, Valentine, Nebraska, 69201-9103, United States
Smith Falls State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
A park entry permit is required and may be purchased at the park, statewide Game and Parks offices, and permit vendors.
About this campground
Discover Nebraska's hidden gem where the thundering cascade of Smith Falls—the state's tallest waterfall—creates an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor adventure. This beloved state park draws adventurers from across the region who come to paddle the pristine waters of the Niobrara National Scenic River, float lazily on tubes through gentle currents, or explore winding trails that reveal the area's natural splendor. Whether you're setting up camp under starlit skies or launching your kayak at dawn, Smith Falls State Park offers an authentic escape into one of Nebraska's most spectacular landscapes.
Smith Falls State Park primarily caters to basic and hike-in camping experiences, with designated group shelters available.
Historical SignificanceStanding as Nebraska's crowning natural wonder, Smith Falls has captivated visitors for generations with its dramatic 63-foot cascade. This remarkable waterfall not only holds the distinction of being the state's highest but also serves as a vital ecological treasure, supporting diverse plant and wildlife communities that thrive in the cool, misty microclimate created by the falls. The site represents a unique convergence of geological forces and time, making it a living testament to Nebraska's surprising natural diversity.
Weather and Seasonsnull
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering cottonwoods and ancient oaks frame the crystal-clear waters of the Niobrara River, their leaves whispering stories of centuries past. Dramatic limestone and sandstone formations rise from the riverbanks, sculpted by millennia of flowing water into galleries of natural art. The park's centerpiece, Smith Falls, tumbles over moss-covered rocks in a perpetual dance of water and stone, while the surrounding forest canopy creates dappled pathways perfect for exploration and quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionNestled along the legendary Niobrara National Scenic River, the campground sits at the heart of one of America's most biologically diverse river valleys. This remarkable waterway cuts through layers of geological history, exposing ancient rock formations that tell the story of prehistoric seas and shifting landscapes. The unique combination of eastern woodlands meeting western prairie creates an ecological crossroads where diverse habitats flourish, making every paddle stroke or hiking step a journey through both time and terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit details about accessibility features provided.
Sites SizeSites in the East Campground allow a maximum of 8 people. No specific dimensions of campsites are provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy of campsites is not described, but the general orientation is noted as featuring trees, river, and rocks.
Total Campsites52 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
8guests maximum per site
Groups
The picnic pavilion is available for group gatherings and may be reserved. Smith Falls Shelter accommodates up to 45 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes East Campground and West Campground loops.
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Activities you can enjoy
Smith Falls offers a range of recreational activities particularly suited for outdoor and water enthusiasts. Canoeing, kayaking, tubing, hiking, and picnicking are popular activities. "The park serves as a convenient take-out spot for paddlers on the Niobrara River."
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, but no specific details about lengths or levels of difficulty are mentioned.Boating
Boating is supported in the Niobrara River area, making the park an ideal spot for canoe and kayak enthusiasts.Winter Activities
No details about winter-specific recreation provided.Water Sports
Canoeing, kayaking, and tubing are primary water activities available within the park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsnull
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station: 4023761306 (Contact Name: Ranger Station)
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo information available about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Niobrara River, a National Scenic River.
Common complaintsnull
Hostnull
Campground Map
90165 Smith Falls Rd, Valentine, Nebraska, 69201-9103, United States
Driving directions-
nullNearby places
Valentine, Nebraska (distance not provided)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Smith Falls State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No detailed user reviews are available in the authoritative content.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
No highlights or specific user praise are provided.
Common Concerns
No user complaints or issues are mentioned.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
No user-provided tips or recommendations are available.
Seasonal Insights
No seasonal trends in user reviews are noted.
Camper Quotes
No user quotes are included.
Site-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews or preferences for particular campsites are mentioned.
Accessibility Features
No user feedback on accessibility features is available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no user feedback about the pet-friendly experience is available.
Last updated August 10, 2025