3 RV Campgrounds Near Hickman, NE - Camping & Dump Stations
40.6200° N, 96.6292° W
Quick Overview
Hickman sits in the rolling farmland south of Lincoln, where several RV campgrounds serve travelers exploring southeastern Nebraska's recreation areas. You'll find some no-cost option alongside paid facilities, giving you flexibility whether you're passing through on I-80 or settling in for a longer stay near the state's capital region.
This small community punches above its weight for RV access. The newest addition, Wagon Train Dam-site 8 Park, joined existing spots that cater to different camping styles. Some facilities sit near Wagon Train Lake, where fishing and boating pull in weekend crowds. Others position closer to highway corridors for quick overnight stops.
The area's flat terrain makes navigation straightforward in larger rigs. You're 15 minutes from Lincoln's urban amenities but far enough out to enjoy quieter nights. State recreation areas dot the landscape within 30 minutes, offering hiking trails and water access that justify extended visits.
Most campgrounds here operate seasonally, with peak activity running May through September. Winter access gets limited, though a few spots accommodate hardy cold-weather campers. The mix of lake-adjacent parks and highway-convenient stops means you can choose between recreation-focused stays or simple overnight parking based on your itinerary.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Hickman
All Dump Stations Near Hickman
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wagon Train Dam-site 8 Park | 2.8 mi | N/A | Dump Station | Varies |
| Victory Quest | 7.0 mi | N/A | Dump Station | Varies |
| Area Five Campground | 8.9 mi | N/A | Dump Station | Varies |
| Area Three Campground | 8.9 mi | N/A | Dump Station | Varies |
| Area Two Campground | 11.5 mi | 4.1 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Olive Creek Dam-site 2 Park | 11.7 mi | N/A | Dump Station | Varies |
| Area One Campground | 11.8 mi | N/A | Dump Station | Varies |
| Palmyra RV Park | 13.8 mi | N/A | Dump Station | Varies |
| Heritage Oaks Mobile Home Park | 15.9 mi | 3.8 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Lancaster Event Center Campgrounds | 16.1 mi | N/A | Dump Station | Varies |
Wagon Train Dam-site 8 Park
2.8 miVictory Quest
7.0 miArea Five Campground
8.9 miArea Three Campground
8.9 miArea Two Campground
11.5 miOlive Creek Dam-site 2 Park
11.7 miArea One Campground
11.8 miPalmyra RV Park
13.8 miHeritage Oaks Mobile Home Park
15.9 miLancaster Event Center Campgrounds
16.1 miTraveling to Hickman by RV
I-80 runs 10 miles north of Hickman, providing the primary east-west corridor for RVers crossing Nebraska. Take Exit 388 or 397 and head south on Highway 77 or Route 103 to reach town. Highway 34 cuts through just north of Hickman, offering a more scenic alternative to the interstate with less truck traffic.
Route 550 connects directly to Wagon Train State Recreation Area east of town. Highway 249 and Highway 70 provide rural access to surrounding farmland, though these narrower roads suit smaller rigs better. Watch for farm equipment during planting and harvest seasons -- tractors pulling wide implements can force you onto soft shoulders.
Lincoln's truck stops along I-80 welcome overnight RV parking, particularly at exits 388 and 395. Walmart on the city's south side allows overnight stays, though it's wise to check with management first. Most Hickman-area campgrounds don't have height restrictions, but call ahead if you're over 13 feet to confirm clearance under tree canopies at older parks.
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Dump Station Costs in Hickman
The several stations around Hickman split into some free option (a portion%) and paid facilities representing a portion% of available spots. The no-cost location works for self-contained rigs needing basic overnight parking, while paid campgrounds run $20-35 per night depending on hookup levels.
State recreation area sites cost less than private parks but book up faster during summer. You're paying for lake access and maintained facilities. Private campgrounds closer to highways charge slightly more but offer better availability and sometimes include WiFi or laundry facilities that state parks lack. Weekly rates at paid locations can drop the per-night cost by 15-20% if you're planning extended stays.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Hickman
“I could be biased when it comes to outdoor reviews; having been here so many times, I have always enjoyed my time. Such a lovely lake to take a nature walk or take some great photos.”
“I finished the rest of the trails out here. All Trails showed some trails that I guess were old because I didn't see them. When I got done, I forgot to hit finish, so the map shows me during now on t...”
“This used to be a nice, clean, scenic lake with a great swimming beach. As of June 2024 the drought has supposedly ended in Lancaster County, but the water level remains as low as last summer. The bea...”
“Edit as of 7/15/2018: Kayak, canoe and SUP put in area on south side of like is not well monitored and as a result is overrun with swimmers, people just using beach area, and boats docking. Even with ...”
Best Time to Visit Hickman by RV
Winter
December-February
15-38°F
Crowds: Low
Most campgrounds close for winter. Wagon Train Lake attracts ice fishermen on weekends, but camping options shrink to nearly zero during deep cold snaps.
Spring
March-May
40-72°F
Crowds: Medium
Parks reopen mid-April as weather stabilizes. Fishing picks up in May, drawing moderate crowds. Watch for sudden thunderstorms that can turn campground roads muddy.
Summer
June-August
68-90°F
Crowds: High
Peak season brings full campgrounds on weekends, especially near water. Temperatures hit 95°F during heat waves. Afternoon thunderstorms provide brief relief but can pack strong winds.
Fall
September-November
45-75°F
Crowds: Low
Crowds thin after Labor Day despite ideal camping weather. Foliage peaks mid-October. Many campgrounds close after Thanksgiving, so confirm availability for late-season trips.
Explore the Hickman Area
Wagon Train Lake gets busy on summer weekends, so arrive Thursday afternoon if you want lakeside sites. The dam area offers better shade than newer sections, worth considering during July heat.
Lincoln's grocery stores and RV supply shops sit 15 minutes north on Highway 77. Stock up before heading to campgrounds, since Hickman itself has limited services. The Pump & Pantry at Highway 77 and Pioneers Boulevard makes a convenient fuel stop with easy RV access.
Cell coverage runs strong on Verizon and AT&T networks throughout the area. T-Mobile gets spottier near the lake. If you're working remotely, test your signal before committing to lakeside sites.
Fire restrictions pop up during dry spells, typically late July through September. Check with the Nebraska Game and Parks website before your trip if you're counting on campfires. When bans hit, propane fire pits usually stay permitted.
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Other Cities in Nebraska
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Hickman
Can I find full hookup sites near Hickman?
Yes, paid campgrounds in the area offer 30/50-amp electric, water, and sewer connections. State recreation area sites typically provide electric and water only, with dump stations available but not at individual sites. Private parks closer to I-80 corridors have the most comprehensive hookup options.
Is Wagon Train Lake good for RV camping?
Wagon Train State Recreation Area provides solid RV camping with lake access for fishing and boating. Sites accommodate rigs up to 45 feet, though lakeside spots fill quickly on summer weekends. The park offers electric hookups, modern restrooms, and a dump station, making it popular with Nebraska RVers.
What's the closest dump station to I-80?
Lincoln has several dump stations within 15 minutes of I-80 exits. Camping World near 84th Street offers dump services for a small fee. Some truck stops at Exit 388 provide RV dump access. Hickman's campgrounds all include dump facilities for registered guests.
Do Hickman campgrounds allow pets?
Most area campgrounds welcome pets with standard restrictions -- leashes required, waste cleanup expected, and some breed limitations at private parks. State recreation areas allow pets throughout campgrounds but restrict them from beach areas. Always confirm pet policies when booking, especially for larger dogs.
How far is Hickman from Lincoln attractions?
You're 15-20 minutes from downtown Lincoln, making day trips to museums, the state capitol, or University of Nebraska events easy. The drive stays simple on Highway 77, with minimal traffic outside rush hours. This proximity lets you enjoy urban amenities while camping in quieter surroundings.
When do campgrounds near Hickman open for the season?
Most facilities open mid-April and operate through October, with exact dates depending on weather. Wagon Train State Recreation Area typically opens its full campground by the third week of April. A few private parks near highways stay open year-round for hardy winter campers, though amenities get limited.
What is the highest-rated dump station in Hickman?
The highest-rated station is Wagon Train Lake State Recreation Area with a rating of 4.4/5 stars.
Are there free dump stations in Hickman?
Yes — there are free RV waste disposal options available near Hickman.
All Dump Stations Near Hickman (74)
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RV Park with Dump StationsDouble Nickel Campground
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RV Park