• The Niobrara National Scenic river comes alive with color in the fall.

    Niobrara

    National Scenic River Nebraska

Camp Program

A family enjoys camping for the first time.

NPS Photo

Family camping is great fun, once you know how!

Camping Adventure with My Parents = CAMP

Has your family always wanted to try camping, but didn't have the equipment or know-how? Try the CAMP program!

The CAMP program registration is open for 2012 - our 3rd year!

We have 3 Saturday & Sunday overnight programs available:
June 23 - 24
July 7 - 8
July 21 - 22 

CAMP begins at 11 a.m. on Saturday and ends at Noon on Sunday.

Register for your free family camping adventure today. Get the form by clicking on the word "register" highlighted here or below.

 

CAMP provides an opportunity to learn about camping and to have family fun enjoying your State Park and National Scenic River. The program is designed for families; there are no age limits. No prior skills or requirements are needed to participate.


Learn the basics: setting up a campsite and tent, campground rules and etiquette, building a campfire, food storage, menu planning, cooking outdoors, campsite cleanup and break down.

CAMP also offers a number of activities with park rangers to learn what makes the Niobrara National Scenic River a national treasure!

To register, choose one of the above weekends, then click and complete each of the following forms:
Registration Forms (Registration is OPEN for 2012)

Submit the completed form in one of three ways:

  • By e-mail:  sandi_kinzer@nps.gov
  • By fax: 402-376-1949
  • By mail to:
    Niobrara National Scenic River
    214 W. Highway 20
    Valentine, NE 69201
     

Program Location: Smith Falls State Park campground, approximately 19 miles east of Valentine, NE off Hwy 12. During summer months, daytime temperatures range from 75 to 100°F; nighttime temperatures vary between 55-80°F.
Leaders: CAMP program activities, instruction and adventures will be led and facilitated by Niobrara National Scenic River staff and volunteers.
Equipment:All camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, camp chairs, flashlights & kitchen equipment) and food is provided. You need only provide transportation to get to and from Smith Falls State Park.

We recommend bringing:         

    • a pillow
    • clothing suitable for the predicted temperatures
    • swimsuit
    • clothes/pajamas to sleep in
    • bug spray and sunscreen
    • sunglasses & hat
    • comfortable socks and shoes for walking
    • any prescriptions
    • essential personal toiletries (deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.)
    • any younger-child needs (formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, etc.)
  • Optional items to bring:          
    • warm hat, gloves, jacket for nighttime
    • camera
    • binoculars

Did You Know?

Eastern Bailey's Woodrat

The Niobrara is a crossroads of habitats where many species are on the edge of their range. 83 eastern species reach their western range limits and 47 western species approach their eastern limits here. Click "More" to visit the Niobrara National River "Nature & Science" page. More...