🌤 Weather at Pelican Point State Recreation Area by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24–72 °F | 58–86 °F | 24–77 °F | 9–34 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Little Sioux 2 NW, 3 mi away, elevation 1,025 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Nebraska’s Missouri River Retreat — 36-Acre State Recreation Area, Missouri River Access, Primitive Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing, Near Craig, Burt County Eastern Nebraska
Pelican Point State Recreation Area is a 36-acre state recreation area near Craig in Burt County, eastern Nebraska, situated adjacent to the Missouri River. The site features primitive camping areas, river access for fishing, wildlife viewing opportunities along the Missouri River corridor, picnic facilities, and a quiet riverside setting ideal for birding and nature observation.
Missouri River Access
The recreation area provides direct access to the Missouri River, one of North America’s great waterways. The river corridor at this location supports excellent channel catfish, flathead catfish, and sauger fishing along with seasonal runs of paddlefish and other river species. The bottomland forest and river margins create important habitat for migratory birds, making the site particularly valuable for bird watching during spring and fall migration.
Camping and Facilities
Pelican Point offers primitive camping in a natural riverside setting — there are no electrical hookups or modern facilities. Campers should come prepared for a rustic experience with basic picnic tables and fire rings. The small size and primitive character of the site make it a quiet, uncrowded alternative to Nebraska’s larger and more developed state recreation areas.
Wildlife and Nature
The Missouri River corridor supports a rich diversity of wildlife including bald eagles (especially during winter), great blue herons, white pelicans (the park’s namesake), various waterfowl, white-tailed deer, and beaver. The riparian forest of cottonwood, willow, and silver maple provides excellent shade and wildlife habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee?
A valid Nebraska Park Entry Permit is required for vehicle access. Daily and annual permits are available.
Is this a developed campground?
No, Pelican Point offers primitive camping only. There are no electrical hookups or shower facilities.
More parks nearby: Summit Lake State Recreation Area is within about an hour’s drive, while Dead Timber State Recreation Area lies within about an hour’s drive.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Nebraska state parks online at nebraskastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
⛺ Camping at Pelican Point State Recreation Area: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | 6 sites — Six primitive campsites without electricity, all first-come, first-served. Vault restrooms are available; there is no potable water on site. |
|---|---|
| Reservations | All campsites are first-come, first-served; campers register nightly fees in an Iron Ranger lockbox (cash or check only). Park entry permit required. |
| Special sites | Provides river access to the Missouri River with one dock and one boat ramp. |
Camping questions about Pelican Point State Recreation Area
Can you camp at Pelican Point State Recreation Area?
Yes. Pelican Point State Recreation Area has 6 campsites. Six primitive campsites without electricity, all first-come, first-served. Vault restrooms are available; there is no potable water on site.
How do you reserve a campsite at Pelican Point State Recreation Area?
All campsites are first-come, first-served; campers register nightly fees in an Iron Ranger lockbox (cash or check only). Park entry permit required.
Source: outdoornebraska.gov (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Pelican Point State Recreation Area
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in Nebraska state park areas, including campgrounds, provided they are leashed, crated or caged.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- All animals must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, or crated or caged.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Designated swimming beaches and pools are off-limits to all animals except service dogs.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in cabins for a $25 one-time pet fee per unit; pets are not allowed in lodge rooms.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $25 one-time pet fee per unit for pets in cabins; no day-use pet fee.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- At Lake McConaughy SRA leashing is strictly enforced to protect Least Tern and Piping Plover nesting areas; pets at large may be impounded.
Are dogs allowed at Pelican Point State Recreation Area?
Pets are allowed in Nebraska state park areas, including campgrounds, provided they are leashed, crated or caged. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via outdoornebraska.gov. More: Nebraska state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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