Smith Falls State Park — Attraction in Valentine

Well after spending 4 nights at niobrara State Park Smith falls was next stop on our trip. Most sites are reserved but we walked into the west campground. There was only a couple campers Monday night and we had the park to ourselves Tuesday night since there was a storm rolling through. we toughed it out and only rained a little bit. The loop trail was pretty cool and had a few different mini falls. Sign says 1 1/2 miles but it felt like 2. Cody is the new superintendent of the park and he is super friendly and kept us informed about the storm coming through. He informed us that the restroom is a storm shelter if needed which was awesome. So my only problem with the park is campsites are too close together. The new sidewalk is way to narrow for wheelchairs. They spent a lot on the beautiful new walkway up to the falls but couldn't make the path wide enough for wheelchairs, Walker's or dogs to pass each other safely. From the bridge to the falls is totally handicap accessible. The path should be 6' wide for safety. I was on the trail and looked down to find 2 beautiful morel mushrooms looking at me. They were delicious! PLEASE remember to clean your campsite...

Pros Smith Falls is amazing! Beautiful, breathtaking and so refreshing in the hot summer. Watching the sunset from the bridge: gorgeous! The river: beautiful, relaxing. Location from tubing and Valentine: excellent

Cons The camp sites are tiny, you better like your neighbor. If the sites were all full it would be an ant hill. There are only two showers and they aren't very nice and not handicap accessible. You have to walk about 60-70 ft through grass, up hill to the showers. I honestly would bring a portable shower if I were to camp here again. The showers are pay, minimum $1, max $1.50 for 6 minutes. The couple mile gravel rode to the grounds was the worst wash board the whole way I have ever experienced and I am a country girl. Horrible. At times under 5 mph. Day three when we left, there was still nothing done to correct it. The area naturally has really bad bugs. If you can't stand bugs...not the place for you. Our fire ring was under a short overhanging tree... doesn't make sense. Huge lack of tall trees and they didn't seem to be any being planted. Not good if you want to hammock. There were only a couple sites that were possible...

Smith Falls is just the best! The front office people are super friendly and helpful. If you are interested in learning about the extensive history of the river you are camping on, ask to speak with Amy!

Verizon had spotty service, but I was able to send texts and make calls in certain spots. The bathrooms were spotless. There are multiple vault toilets and a shower and flush toilet located in the camping area. The shower takes 4 quarters for 3 minutes.

The falls are a very easy and accessible walk from campsites. Kayaking and canoeing the river are common. You can rent gear nearby if you do not have your own. Sometimes people will rent gear further upstream and do a two day canoe trip, stopping at the park for one of their camping nights. The water is so clear you can see the bottom.

Camp sites are walk up and drive up. The closer you get to the falls, the further you will have to carry your gear. Very dog and kid friendly! Play in the river, hike, stand under thr falls! Deer walk around the campsites at dusk.

Don't let the gravel road entry deter you. This is one of the best parks I...