Cabin camping near Bennington, Nebraska centers around several recreation areas within 30 miles of town. The region sits at an elevation of approximately 1,250 feet in the Missouri River Valley with a continental climate marked by hot summers and cold winters. Most Bennington-area cabins require advance booking, especially during peak season from May through September when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking trails and observation points: Hitchcock Nature Center offers miles of trails through the unique Loess Hills formation. "The trails are well marked and the a multiple different trailheads, many which start around the visitors center/tower Overlook. During the winter they even over snowshoeing events," notes Pat V. in a Hitchcock Nature Center review.
Water recreation: Memphis Lake State Recreation Area provides non-motorized boating opportunities in a tranquil setting. "The lake is a no wake zone, so kayaks, and canoes are great," explains Tony B. Water activities are available from April through October when water levels are typically optimal.
Archery and shooting: Several parks maintain dedicated ranges for target practice. "I stayed one night on my way to Colorado. For only $10 dollars this campground has a lot to provided including free showers," mentions Jessica F. about Arrowhead Park, which includes archery facilities.
Educational programs: Seasonal nature programs occur throughout the year at various parks. "They have Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc.," writes Pat V. about Hitchcock Nature Center, which offers regular hawk watching events.
What campers like
Private cabin layouts: Platte River State Park cabins provide multiple configurations to suit different group sizes. "They have a couple of different kinds of cabins. There's a bunch of trails! The park in general is beautiful," says Jordan H. about Platte River State Park.
Variety of accommodation types: Beyond traditional cabins, several parks offer unique lodging options. "Take your pick, river or lakeside. Some areas are more modern than others but all are nice. A few have water hookups," notes Angie P. about Fawn Meadows Campground at Two Rivers SRA.
Lakeside proximity: Many cabin sites provide direct water access or views. "It is a nice spot a bit off of the main roads. Many of the tent sites allow you to camp right next to the lake," writes David L. about Memphis Lake SRA, where cabin options complement tent camping.
Recreational amenities: On-site activities enhance cabin stays without requiring travel. "There is a $3 day use pass or a $20 yearly pass available. This place has a lot to offer anyone," shares Pat V. about Hitchcock Nature Center.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many cabins must be booked months in advance during peak season. "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids including paddleboating, a wave pool, horse riding, ziplining, and playgrounds," explains Jennifer M. about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
Site selection matters: Some cabin areas offer more privacy than others. "This is a small campground a little ways before you get to lakeside campground. These spots are electric with fire pits and picnic tables. It is near the road and the dump station is in view," Shannon G. notes about Fawn Meadows Campground.
Kitchen facilities vary: Each cabin type offers different cooking setups. "Campsites are decently spaced. Several 'lakes' throughout campground. Park offers overnight stays in several decommissioned train caboose cars and there is a small camp store on site," says Jen K.
Seasonal operation changes: Some facilities reduce services during winter months. "Very nice camp sites and playgrounds for children nice clean fishing lakes and river access," shares Jared Diana S. about Goldenrod Campground, which maintains year-round operations but with reduced services from November through March.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for all ages: Diverse recreation options keep everyone engaged. "We went to our local KOA for the first time in a few years and we had a blast. Tons of activities (most were free, some with a small cost) and just what we needed," shares Pat V. about West Omaha KOA Holiday.
Swimming options: Dedicated swimming areas provide safe water recreation. "This site is great for any size family. The range of different camping options and amenities is incredible. The facilities are well maintained, the staff is friendly and helpful," notes Sandra O.
Educational experiences: Nature centers complement outdoor activities with learning opportunities. "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping," explains Lynn G.
Budget considerations: Park fees vary beyond cabin rental costs. "Don't forget the day use fee it's $14 a day for out of state and seven dollars in state," reminds Wes S. about Memphis Lake SRA, highlighting the importance of checking all applicable fees.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV pads near cabin areas vary in size and proximity. "We were given an inappropriate size space for the rig we stated, super narrow and we stuck over the road by 2 feet. They had larger sites all around us but were told we could not change," cautions Stacy M. about West Omaha KOA Holiday.
Accessibility options: Some cabin areas offer better RV access than others. "This is a small campground but as a stopping point on the way to the rocky mountains it was a nice peaceful place. Sites were level and facilities were clean," notes a reviewer about Cottonwood Campground.
Power hookups: Electrical service varies by location. "These spots are electric with fire pits and picnic tables. It is near the road and the dump station is in view. There is sometimes a line of campers at the dump station," Shannon G. observes about Fawn Meadows.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some areas more than others. "We needed an overnight stop on our way to Kansas and this KOA was perfect. We pulled into a very large pull through on the west side of the campground. The KOA was pretty full but everyone was respectful and we didn't hear much noise," reports Glenda D.
