Established in 1925, Victoria Springs State Recreation Area is the third oldest area in Nebraska's state park system. Located 6 miles east of Anselmo or 7 miles north of Merna, Victoria has justly been described as an oasis in the Sand Hills. It is one of the most picturesque areas in the state.

As one might suppose, the 60-acre area draws its name from the mineral springs located there. It was once part of the homestead of an early pioneer and Custer County judge, Charles R. Matthews. In the heyday of the spas, Victoria's waters were much acclaimed, and its spring water was bottled for sale.

Still on the site are the log cabins that Judge Matthews built ... one as his home and the other as the first post office in Custer County. Victoria is the only state recreation area with cabin accommodations. Other facilities include a campground, picnic area, and rental boats.

Cabins

Victoria has two modern, two-bedroom, housekeeping cabins, equipped with a kitchen, two bedrooms with double beds, linens, blankets, shower and toilet. The kitchenettes are furnished with ranges, refrigerators, tableware, and sink.

The operating season may be changed but normally facilities open Memorial Weekend and close in mid-November.

Reservations

Advance reservations are accepted for cabins and camping 1 year from the date of arrival. Reservations are available online or by calling the Nebraska State Park Call Center.

Cabin check-in time is 4 p.m., and checkout time is 11 a.m., and Camping check-in time is 4 p.m. and check-out time is 2 p.m. unless other arrangements are made with the superintendent in advance. Cabin units require a two night stay unless there is only a 1 night stay available.

Camping

30 and 50 Amp sites are available. Camping reservations are available for 50% of the electrical sites. Campground has a modern showers, dump station and restrooms are located nearby. Maximum stay is 14 days.

Picnicking

Well-wooded picnic areas have tables, fireplaces, drinking water, and toilets. There is one group picnic shelter.

Fishing and Boating

Both fishing and non-power boating are permitted in the small lake. Victoria Springs pond has bullhead, bass, bluegill and catfish.

Camping Facilities: 21 camping pads with electrical hookups* 60 non-pad sites without electricity *20/30/50-amp. 1-year advance reservable campsites Lodging Facilities: 2 cabins that may be reserved.

Victoria Springs is a 55 acre park with a 5 acre pond. This area offers a modern campground with a shower/latrine building.

Reservations are accepted for the two cabins and camping. Reservations are taken for 50% of the modern camping. Reservations are taken up to 1 year in advance of arrival day.