Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area
RV Guide
Introduction
You’ll definitely find something unexpected at this unique RV camping experience at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area, nestled in North Platte, Nebraska. With the adjoining Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, this area is the former home of the famous William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody. This vast 4,000-acre state park contains the original 16-acres of Bill’s ranch with barn, home, and even roaming buffalo. Best known for his Wild West Show, this park is the place to visit Buffalo Bill’s impressive mansion, famous for its expensive price tag when it was built in 1886. Tour the house and nearby barn, which was called Scout’s Rest Ranch, to view the Buffalo Bill memorabilia on display.
Come and camp in your RV at the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area campground with all 23 sites offering electric hookups. From watching the buffalo roam to the many varieties of birds that visit this area of Nebraska, it is a wonderful area to view the wildlife. Great for a one night visit or an extended vacation, you’ll be glad that you added this state park on the list of places you’ve visited in your RV or trailer. Come today and visit the home of a former famed Pony Express rider.
RV Rentals in Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area
Transportation
Driving
Head out to see how the West was won in North Platte, Nebraska at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area! A great place to visit for history lovers, come and see the former home of Col. William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody during your next getaway. Accessible to the North Platte Interchange at I-80, this area makes a convenient RV camping spot. Only an hour and a half from Dunning and less than three hours from Grand Island, Nebraska, you'll find that your next adventure to the Wild West is mere minutes away. You can also check out the adjoining 25 miles of the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historic Park giving you access to the mansion and barns.
Parking
When you arrive at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area, you will know that you are at the right place once you see Buffalo Bill's mansion at the entrance. To access the campground, travel slowly down a gravel road, towards the back area of Scout's Rest Ranch. Once you arrive at the campsite, the park offers two loops for electricity with sites on the left offering 30/50 amp and the ones on the right offering 30 amp. There is a self-serve box at the campground entrance for you to pay your fee. Make plans to pack your leveling blocks - you may need them during your visit.
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area
Campsites in Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area
First-come first-served
Buffalo Bill Campground
Take a moment back in history as you camp in your motorhome at the Buffalo Bill Campground. It's a perfect place for all outdoor enthusiasts no matter the age. This campground has majestic views of the North Platte River ,along with a sandy beach near the 23 sites that offer electrical hookups. There are water spigots not too far from the campground and each level, gravel site provides a picnic table, fire pit, and grill. It’s important to note that there is not a dump station at this campground. Depending on the amount of electricity you will need, the 50 amp sites are on the left side of the campground, while the 30 amps are on the right. There is a self-service entry fee station, and be prepared to set up your own shade as this cozy campground has very few trees. An excellent place for a respite, Buffalo Bill State Historical Park offers unique history, unique animals, and a museum, meaning this RV visit will be one that you will remember for years to come. Open from May to Labor Day, this area is an excellent place to camp solo in your motorhome or with a group, so get here early.
Seasonal activities in Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area
Off-Season
Fishing Along the North Platte River
Cast your cares away as you enjoy fishing at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area in the North Platte River. From catching largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish and the famous Northern pike, you'll be glad that you brought your favorite rod and bait in your campervan. The state park offers an excellent place for anglers to test their efforts, relax, and enjoy one of America's favorite pastimes from the shores or on your boat.
Stargazing
See the vast Nebraska night sky that you have never seen before from your RV campsite at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area. Tucked away from the beaten path, the lack of light pollution near this vast state park offers excellent views of Mother Nature's light show. After enjoying some time around the campfire, grab your blanket and telescope from your camper to view the stars at this prime place and get ready - it will take your breath away.
Exploring Buffalo Bill's Trials
Take some needed you-time and get out in nature's on Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area's hand-curated trail. A beautiful, relaxing walk, this trail is great for hikers of all abilities. Take in the unique Nebraska historical sites as you explore the barns and surrounding areas of Scout's Rest Ranch. Pack your best hiking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the unique wildlife and artifacts at this exceptional state park!
In-Season
Wildlife Viewing
Take a break from your RV campsite to view the variety of wildlife during your adventure to Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area. From ducks waddling along the trails to buffalo roaming the prairie fields, you will not want to forget your camera in your camping trailer. This state park will not disappoint as you explore the woods that encircle the main recreation area to see all that this Nebraska state park has to offer!
Birding
At times, there are more birds than people at this state park. Bring your binoculars in your rig to catch some fantastic birds during your visit to Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area. It's a busy place during the springtime as 500,000 Sandhill Cranes arrive at this area during their migration. The park does host an Osprey Talk to feature their mate's pair at the Shreve Lodge, so check with rangers on time.
Touring Buffalo Bill's Mansion
See how this Nebraska state park helps preserve a part of America's Wild West history. Built to Buffalo Bill's extravagant taste in 1886, no expense was spared at this North Platte haven. Come and take a self-guided tour of the mansion and barn from the springtime to late fall as you see the mysterious artifacts that are furnishing the ranch. You can also check out Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show memorabilia that was curated during his lifetime.
