Calamus River State Recreation Area Backcountry Loop

The Calamus River winds through some of Nebraska’s most isolated Sandhills country, and this network of primitive roads follows the river valley where Theodore Roosevelt hunted elk and deer in 1892. Starting from Calamus State Recreation Area, old ranch roads and game trails snake along the river bottom and climb onto surrounding dune ridges, offering views across endless grass prairie. The route passes through the historic Calamus Outfitters area where Roosevelt’s hunting party camped, and remnants of old homestead foundations still dot the landscape.

Easy to moderate difficulty depending on recent weather – sandy sections can get soft after rain, but most stock SUVs handle the route fine in dry conditions. Summer can be brutally hot with no shade, making spring and fall ideal seasons. No permits needed for day trips, but overnight camping requires registration at the state park office. Bring plenty of water and sun protection – this is true big sky country with nowhere to hide. The solitude and wildlife viewing opportunities make it worth the drive, especially during spring migration when hundreds of bird species move through the valley.