Amenities: Base camp features a porta potty and delicious drinking water from our underground well, accessible to all campers. RV campers will have delicious potable water for filling only, not direct hook up. Gray water dumping is permitted. The Robidoux RV Campground, operated by the City of Gering, is located 1.5 miles down the road from us. They allow campers to use their dumping facility for $10.

Campfires: Due to weather circumstances while you're here, it may not be safe to have a campfire. The area has been in a drought condition and fires may not be allowed.

Climate:  Nebraska can be dry and hot, and none of the campsites are directly shaded. Plan to create your own shade. Carry plenty of water and sun protection when hiking. Our evenings cool down, providing temperature relief at sundown. Wind can also 

Gear and Weather: Be sure you stake your tent. No matter how calm or mild it seems, a breeze can pick up at any time, or an unexpected wind gust. Prepare for water and wind and keep your eye on the weather report.  It is best to keep your rig parked and stay put for awhile after a hard rain, when county dirt roads become gumbo-like, wheels get coated, and vehicles slide and get stuck. It tends to dry out fast, but please keep this in mind for your safety. No farmer or towing company will bail you out if you find yourself stuck out here...until it dries...because they'd get stuck too.

Clothing: Guests should wear closed-toed shoes (hiking shoes are best) and long pants (we are not kidding) at any time of the year, as this is wild natural land where *rattlesnakes are not unheard of.  You will also be glad of protection from spiky vegetation on the prairie.

Hiking: There are numerous hiking options accessible on foot from beginner to challenging on our private land and the national park's public land. Frank and Lisa will be happy to guide you to the best hiking area according to your interests and level of experience.

Wildlife

Rattlesnakes - It is not likely you will see a snake but this is their home and we do share it with them. Should you encounter any snake on the prairie: Slowly back away and exit the area. Under no circumstances should you approach the snake, follow the snake, or try to tease or hurt the snake. Rattlesnakes are not vindictive. They will not chase you. They would rather shake their rattle at you and warn you off than hurt you. If you are bitten by a rattlesnake, stay calm and immediately call 911, then call Lisa (number provided after booking). At the earliest possible time, please report any rattlesnake sightings and general location to the camp host.   

Coyotes - Though not generally interested in people, they will protect the boundaries of their territory if they have a den of pups nearby (usually in spring). Keep your dog secure. If you encounter a coyote, stand your ground and make yourself as large as possible. Slowly back away from the animal while making a menacing sound. Do not run nor turn your back on the animal. Likely, if you encounter one, you're near its den and pups, and they are asking you to leave the area. They don't want to hurt you. 

Other Wildlife - You will likely hear the Western Meadowlark's distinctive song in the morning and evening. You might also see the Great Horned Owl, Mule Deer, Coyote. Other residents in the area include Opossum, Raccoon, Skunk, Honey Badger, Fox, a variety of other songbirds and birds of prey.  Though we have never seen one, it wouldn't be a complete surprise if someday a cougar (often called a wildcat) were spotted here. 

The Farm Animals

The Clucks - Frank and Lisa's beloved chickens live near the house at base camp. Currently, there are 16 hens and Buffy the Rooster. If you love farm fresh eggs, and there are enough to share, you might be in cluck!  If you'd like to have a meet and greet with the chickens, just let us know. Lisa loves to show them off, and particularly enjoys introducing them to children.