Fee: Nebraska park entry permit required: $7 daily / $35 annual (Nebraska-plated vehicle); $14 daily / $70 annual (other vehicles). Camping $10-$35 per night by site type.
About this park
Calamus State Recreation Area in Nebraska's Sandhills has a 5,123-acre lake plus 4,958 surrounding acres. Virginia Smith Dam, completed in 1986 by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, irrigates about 53,000 acres. Fish include walleye, white bass, wipers, channel catfish, carp, drum, muskie, northern pike, crappie, and rainbow trout. Visitors boat from five docks and four ramps, swim, hike, hunt, and picnic at 204 tables and 216 grills. A fish hatchery offers self-guided tours, and two fish-cleaning stations are provided. Three campgrounds, Homestead Knolls, Nunda Shoal, and Valley View Flat, offer camping by site type, with reservations up to 180 days ahead at 1-844-637-2757.
Calamus State Recreation Area FAQ
Where is Calamus State Recreation Area located?
Calamus State Recreation Area is in Burwell, Nebraska, at 42285 York Point Rd.. GPS coordinates: 41.8591, -99.2546. Get directions.
Is there an entrance fee at Calamus State Recreation Area?
Nebraska park entry permit required: $7 daily / $35 annual (Nebraska-plated vehicle); $14 daily / $70 annual (other vehicles). Camping $10-$35 per night by site type. Fees can change by season, so confirm with the park before you go.
How do I contact Calamus State Recreation Area?
You can call (308) 346-5666. The park office can confirm RV site availability, hookups, length limits and current conditions.
Are there RV campgrounds near Calamus State Recreation Area?
Yes. The closest RV-friendly campgrounds listed on ParkedRV are:
- Methodist Cove (122.5 mi, reservable)
- Hunter Cove (122.7 mi, reservable)
- Sylvan Park (203.7 mi, reservable)
How current is this information about Calamus State Recreation Area?
This listing was last updated on October 4, 2026. If something is out of date, let us know and we'll fix it.