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Wagon Train SRA

Overview

Wagon Train State Recreation Area offers a classic Nebraska outdoor experience centered around a scenic 315-acre lake. Located just south of the state capital, this park provides a balance of recreational water sports and quiet prairie landscapes. It is a popular spot for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat without straying too far from urban conveniences. The park is well-regarded for its clean air and spacious layout, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the Great Plains. Whether you are passing through on a cross-country trek or looking for a weekend getaway, the park provides a welcoming natural environment.

Location & Surroundings

Situated in Hickman, Nebraska, the park is nestled within the rolling hills of the Salt Valley region. The surrounding area is characterized by agricultural fields and open grasslands that create a serene backdrop for camping. Its proximity to Lincoln means visitors can enjoy the seclusion of the countryside while being only a short drive from major highways. The natural shoreline of the lake provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly migratory birds and local waterfowl that frequent the area throughout the changing seasons.

Amenities & Park Features

RVers will find several pads equipped with 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups, along with numerous primitive sites for a more rustic experience. The park features essential facilities to support your stay, including:

  • Centrally located vault toilets and water hydrants.
  • A convenient dump station for RV maintenance.
  • Multiple boat ramps and a designated swimming beach.
  • Miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Picnic areas with grills are scattered throughout the park, offering perfect spots for outdoor meals with a view of the water.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Fishing is a primary draw at the lake, which is regularly stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Beyond the water, the scenic hiking trails offer a way to explore the local flora and fauna at your own pace. For a change of pace, the city of Lincoln is less than 20 miles away, offering the Sunken Gardens, the Nebraska State Capitol, and a variety of dining and shopping options. Additionally, Stagecoach State Recreation Area is located nearby for those looking to explore another part of the Salt Valley lake system during their stay.

Who This Park Is Best For

This destination is perfect for nature lovers and families who enjoy water-based activities and quiet evenings under the stars. It caters well to budget-conscious RVers who prefer a more natural setting over a high-density luxury resort environment. Because of its large, open spaces and equestrian trails, it is also a great fit for travelers with horses or those who simply want a dog-friendly space to stretch their legs during a long road trip through the Midwest. It is an excellent choice for those who value peace, quiet, and outdoor recreation.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• Lake
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Ramp
• Body Of Water (Wagon Train Lake)
• Playground

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Day Max Stay (14)
• Tent Camping Allowed
• No Reservations

- Other Amenities & Services

• Pit Toilets

- Facility

• Type (State Park)
• Partial Handicap Access

- On-Site Rentals

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- Sites

• Spaces Available (108)
• Paved Sites (28)
• Max Length (50)
• 30 Amp
• 50 Amp
• Dirt Sites (80)
• Electric (28)
• No Hookups (80)
• Max Amps (50)
• Back-ins (10 x 50)

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Hiking
• Road Biking Trails

- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)

• Year-Round

User Reviews

Kcjones

October 05, 2025

Beautiful scenery and looked like a nice place to camp or fish or just get off the road for a bit.

Donna Davis

July 11, 2025

Decent place to camp. Nice trails. Wish the lake was better. We'll give it another try.

Leilani D

June 14, 2025

There's no lake left, swimming non-existent. Website needs updated to reflect. There are tons of camp grounds.

Mike Hale

February 04, 2025

Well after spending time at numerous campsites throughout the state I never felt so uncomfortable as we did at wagon train. The campsite was great but at midnight in the first night we had county sheriff pull up and question our park sticker.. we were the only camper's in the whole park but they decided to wake up our tent at midnight WTF!! We had last year sticker but THEY DEMANDED that I put current sticker on car to avoid from getting a $76 ticket! Really? We had an expired but it was also January 27 on a off peak night. We already had a 2025 sticker but didn't put it on the car. We have a extremely clean campsite but Lancaster county sheriff decided to bother good citizens for camping in a off peak season campsite? We will never camp here again!! We already had a 2024 sticker but I guess that doesn't show enough love we have for Nebraska State Park's!

Jerry Dunlap

October 26, 2024

I finished the rest of the trails out here. All Trails showed some trails that I guess were old because I didn't see them. When I got done, I forgot to hit finish, so the map shows me during now on the way home. I remembered when I got over on hyway 43. It said I went 24.49 mi 3h 2m. I probably went only around 8 mi or little more. It was really nice out today for hiking.

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Map for Wagon Train SRA

Contact information