About this place

Tucked in the shade of ponderosa pines planted in the early 1900's, this 23-unit campground is in the southeast corner of the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest. A hand water pump, picnic tables, fire rings, and modern vault toilets make this an attractive base from which to explore the Sandhills. The Blue Jay Trail, a one-mile nature loop, starts and ends at the campground. For horseback riders, a corral with stalls is available, with a manure bunk nearby. We ask that horses not be in individual campsites unless being saddled. A fee is charged. From Highway 20 at Nenzel, go south on State Spur 16F for 18 miles. The campground will be to the west (right). From Valentine, head south on Highway 97 for 26 miles, then turn right onto the Merritt Dam Road. Continue on the Merritt Dam Road (County Road 5) for 15 miles. At the T, turn left onto at State Spur 16F and go 2 miles to the campground.