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Windmill SRA
Overview
Windmill State Recreation Area is a unique and serene stop situated along the Platte River valley in central Nebraska. Known for its historical collection of restored antique windmills that dot the landscape, this park offers a scenic and educational backdrop for both overnight travelers and long-term campers. The park features a series of six man-made lakes that provide a peaceful environment for fishing and quiet relaxation, effectively masking much of the nearby highway hum for those resting between long legs of their journey.
Location & Surroundings
Conveniently located just off Interstate 80 at the Gibbon exit, the park is incredibly accessible for big rigs and travelers traversing the state. Despite its proximity to a major transportation artery, the mature cottonwood trees and expansive green spaces create a lush, secluded atmosphere that feels miles away from the road. The surrounding landscape is characterized by the flat, rhythmic beauty of the Nebraska prairie and the vital ecological corridor of the Platte River, making it a prime location for nature photography.
Amenities & Park Features
The park accommodates a wide variety of RV sizes with 69 spacious electrical campsites offering both 30- and 50-amp service. Guests have access to essential modern amenities including:
- Modern showers and heated restroom facilities
- On-site dump station for self-contained RV units
- Six lakes stocked for fishing and non-powered boating
- A designated swimming beach and playground area
Families frequently make use of the well-maintained playground and the various picnic shelters available for group gatherings and outdoor meals throughout the camping season.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the park boundaries, visitors can explore the rich natural and cultural history of the region. The Rowe Sanctuary is just a short drive away, offering world-class opportunities for sandhill crane viewing during their spectacular spring migration. For a touch of local culture and history, the Classic Car Collection in nearby Kearney provides an impressive display of automotive heritage. Additionally, the city of Kearney offers a variety of local breweries, diverse dining options, and shopping centers for those who need to restock supplies.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an excellent choice for cross-country RV travelers who need a reliable, safe, and scenic place to rest along the busy I-80 corridor. It also serves as a fantastic destination for fishing enthusiasts and birdwatchers who value the tranquil environment provided by the sandpit lakes and local migration paths. Whether you are a solo traveler looking for a quick, high-quality overnight stay or a family planning a weekend of outdoor recreation and swimming, Windmill SRA provides a comfortable and historically rich setting for all types of campers.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
User Reviews
B Gordon
Looks nice and well maintained with large spaced out camp sites. I reserved a 50amp 'pull through' spot. Upon arriving I saw that the power station is at the front passenger side ALL OF THE PULL THROUGH SPOTS. These are actually pull over spots on the right side of the roads. You would need 60 ft of cord to be able to plug in. The park said I could park backwards, but then the front door and stairs are in the road. All their back in spots are too small to stay connected to my tow vehicle.... So I left. The $14 entrance fee you have to pay on top on the camp fee, is non refundable. Also as soon as I parked, a sheriff drove by at 1 mph and looked me and my vehicle over, hard. Be advised- this is public land.
Frank Vrba
Very nice and well kept park and camp ground.
Stacy M
The Park itself is nice Be mindful that there is a sizeable amount added on to your camping reservation price as some sort of reservation fee It's all done on computer and somebody has to put a tag on a post.I guess it's just another way to make money First thing you see when you come into the campground is several dogs off leash running from campsite to campsite In the evening our group couldn't even sit outside and enjoy the weather because people in the west side of the electric campground were burning what appeared to be bags of trash and plastic bottles Black smoke and the smell of burnt plastic throughout the campground Perhaps staff needs to pay more attention to what is happening in the campgrounds Too bad the game Parks is spending all this money renovating these places and people are coming along and treating it like their own backyard
Sarah Girkadirk
We came cruising in after hours after a long drive. We suddenly realized we didn't have the right cash on hand to pay for a late deposit. Oh no! We decided to risk it and stay until morning. The dreaded knock on the door came just after 8 am. Grant was very kind when we told him our intention to pay when the gas station opened up with ATM access. He permitted us the ability to square up with the front office on our way out. What a relief! (Thank you, Grant!) The recreational area included several play areas, fishing, lakes, and restrooms. The area is well maintained with so many unique views and majestic trees. The sites are level, and so many are easy to pull in and park. If we ever cross the interstate 80 again by Gibbon, Nebraska, we'll be sure to stop by here again. Thank you, Windmill State Park, for showing us the beauty and hospitality of Nebraska: the good place
Emily Butala
Clean, quiet. We visited the swimming area on a hot, sunny summer afternoon and were pleasantly surprised to find we were the only people there. Bathroom facilities were clean and the park itself was well-maintained and very pleasant