⭐ What is Boondocking?

Boondocking means camping without hookups (no water, sewer, or electricity), typically in scenic, remote locations like the Niobrara River. Campers rely on solar power, water conservation, and self-contained systems to stay comfortable off-grid.

There’s something about Nebraska’s Sandhills that feels wide open in the best way possible. On this episode of On the Road with Girl Camper, we traveled from the Black Hills to Sparks, Nebraska, to camp along the Niobrara River for our annual Girl Camper River & Root Beer event.

This trip combines everything we love about RV life:
✔️ Off-grid camping
✔️ Scenic river views
✔️ Community and connection
✔️ Easy outdoor adventure

📍 Where to Camp on the Niobrara River

There are a handful of options to camp along the river but our favorite is Sharp’s Outfitters near Sparks, Nebraska. It’s one of the best places for Niobrara River camping. The staff is friendly and they can set you up and transport you down river for a fun day of floating or paddling.

Why it’s perfect for boondocking:

• Campsites right along the river
• Easy access to float trips
• Peaceful, nature-focused setting
• Close to Valentine, Nebraska amenities

If you’re searching for:
👉 “Best places to camp on the Niobrara River”
This is a top option.

⚡ How to Boondock in a T@B 360cs (Step-by-Step)

If you’re new to boondocking in an RV, here’s exactly how I do it in a nuCamp T@B 360cs Black Canyon Edition:

🔋 1. Manage Your Power with Solar

• Dual 190-watt solar panels
• 100Ah lithium battery
• Victron SmartSolar app for real-time monitoring

💡 Tip: Use USB-powered devices to avoid needing an inverter.

🔌 2. Use Energy-Efficient Charging

The T@B 360cs has 11 USB-A and USB-C outlets, making it easy to power:

• Phones
• Cameras
• Lights
• Small electronics

☕ 3. Cook Without Electricity

Use the propane cooktop to:

• Boil water for coffee
• Cook meals efficiently
• Preserve battery life

💧 4. Conserve Water While Dry Camping

Your fresh tank (~23 gallons) can last all weekend with:

• Quick showers
• Reusing rinse water
• Bringing backup drinking water

💡 Pro Tip: Fill your water tank after arriving to improve towing fuel efficiency. Water is heavier that you realize and having a full tank makes your tow vehicle work harder.

🚽 5. Manage Waste Easily

• Cassette toilet for simple dumping
• Use biodegradable toilet paper
• Add a small amount of tank treatment, like liquified, to prevent odors

📍 There’s a free Dump station in Valentine, Nebraska

🌊 Floating the Niobrara River

One of the best things to do near Valentine, Nebraska is floating the Niobrara River.

Why it’s popular:

• Calm, beginner-friendly water
• Beautiful scenery
• Perfect for groups

This is the highlight of the Girl Camper River & Root Beer event—a relaxing float with zero stress and maximum fun. It’s also an event we do every year and one of my favorites. My recommendation is to come during the week to avoid the crowds. Ninety percent of the people that float the River do it on the weekends.

👯‍♀️ Why Girl Camper Events Are Different

Camping is just better together. At Girl Camper events, you’ll find:

• Instant friendships
• Campfire conversations
• Group meals and potlucks
• Support for women who love RV life

You’re never camping alone.

🍽️ Things to Do in Valentine, Nebraska

If you’re planning a Niobrara River camping trip, don’t miss these other things you can do in the area:

🌿 Outdoor Adventures

• Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge – great scenic overlooks
• Smith Falls State Park – Nebraska’s tallest waterfall (also a great spot to stop for lunch on your float) (you can also camp here)
• Cowboy Trail – a 195 mile Rails to Trails path with bike rentals available at the Valentine Chamber office
• Merritt Reservoir – Dark Sky destination for stargazing and excellent fishing

🦬 Wildlife Viewing

• Elk
• Bison
• Native prairie landscapes

🍔 Where to Eat

• Coachlight Café – Local comfort food
• Casey’s Pizza – A Midwest favorite IYKYK

⛳ Golf & Recreation

• The Prairie Club
• Frederick Peak Golf Club
  Top-rated public golf courses in the U.S.

🌙 Why Boondocking is Worth It

When the sun sets over the Niobrara River and your campsite glows softly under red underglow lights, everything slows down. No crowds. No noise. Just nature. Boondocking gives me a sense of peace.

🎥 Watch the Full Boondocking Adventure

See exactly how I:

• Set up for off-grid camping
• Manage power, water, and waste
• Experience the Girl Camper community
• Download my complete bookdocking checklist too.

💛 Join Girl Camper Nebraska

Ready to try it yourself? Visit: https://girlcamper.com Find events, meet other women campers, and start your own adventure. And sign up for our next River and Root Beer event!

🚐 Learn More About the T@B 360cs

👉 Explore nuCamp RVs: https://nucamprv.com and check out our entire series of On The Road With Girl Camper video.