VALENTINE, Neb. - Campers looking for electrical hookups near the Niobrara National Scenic River could soon have more options. Sharp’s Outfitters has applied for a conditional use permit to add ten more electrical sites to its existing campground.

“There’s a need for it because I already have a couple of weekends booked for this coming year,” Sharp’s Owner Rita Rowan told the Niobrara Council at its Thursday meeting. “Two other weekends are three-fourths full.”

Sharp’s currently offers 21 electrical sites.  As News Channel Nebraska previously reported, the Valentine area has experienced a significant uptick in visitors ever since the pandemic.

While the Niobrara Council approved the permit, member Rich Mercure raised concerns about pedestrian safety on the nearby road. Mercure said that visitors often are speeding as campers are walking along the narrow road, fearing that someone will eventually get injured.