Steer Creek Campground
USFS · Campground · Fee
Fast facts
- Cost
- Fee charged
- Managed by
- USFS
- Type
- Campground
- Hours
- Open 24 hours/day. Quiet hours 10:00 pm - 8:00 am.
- Reservations
- fs.usda.gov
- Coordinates
- 42.6895, -101.1547
- Last verified
- September 18, 2026
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.
From the USFS.
Is Steer Creek Campground free?
No. Steer Creek Campground charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through fs.usda.gov.
How do I get to Steer Creek Campground?
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.
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
