Toadstool Geological Park and Campground

What if you could camp amidst a surreal moonscape of eroded clay pedestals, towering sandstone slabs, and fossil-filled formations? Toadstool Geological Park and Campground in northwestern Nebraska offers an otherworldly escape into the heart of the Oglala National Grasslands. This compact yet striking campground features six first-come, first-served sites where visitors can immerse themselves in the Nebraska Badlands' dramatic landscapes, steeped in 30 million years of geological history.

Each campsite includes a gravel parking spur, a covered picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill, with vault toilets and trash collection conveniently nearby. However, water is unavailable, so campers are advised to come prepared. A trailhead at the campground provides direct access to multiple hiking options, including a one-mile interpretive loop trail that winds through the park’s iconic formations and a three-mile Bison Trail linking to the Hudson-Meng Bison Kill site. Other highlights include a reconstructed sod house reflecting prairie homesteading history and prime stargazing opportunities in this remote setting.

Located about 25 minutes northwest of Crawford, Nebraska, the campground’s proximity to unique attractions like Fort Robinson and the Nebraska National Forest adds further appeal. While the area’s rugged, unpaved roads demand caution during wet weather, the park’s rich paleontological legacy, mesmerizing scenery, and peaceful ambience make it ideal for short getaways or educational day trips.