Cabin accommodations near Blair, Nebraska range from rustic to modern styles with various amenities and price points. Most locations sit within the rolling hills and river valleys surrounding the Platte and Missouri Rivers. Summer temperatures average 85°F, while winter lows can reach 10°F, making seasonal preparations important for campers selecting cabin options in the area.
What to do
Archery practice: Hitchcock County Nature Center in Honey Creek offers an on-site archery range alongside extensive hiking trails. According to Pat V., "This place has a lot to offer anyone. They have Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc."
Boardwalk nature trails: Hitchcock County Nature Center features accessible trails suitable for all skill levels. Karen W. notes, "There's even a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy. There's all levels of hikes. They have a hawkwatch tower."
Fishing opportunities: Two Rivers State Recreation Area provides multiple lakes for varied fishing experiences. Tony B. explains, "Fishing in one of the sandpit lakes they have to offer, or the river... I have always felt at home at this park."
Paddle boating: Many campgrounds offer rentals for water activities. Shannon G. mentions that at Cottonwood campground, "Two rivers is my favorite Nebraska hidden gem! The state Rec Park is by both the Elkhorn and Platte rivers, thus it's name, Two Rivers."
What campers like
Private hillside camping: Campers appreciate the secluded backcountry sites at Hitchcock Nature Center. Aaron A. shares, "The views from the two south east campsites are amazing, looking over the Missouri River valley and the Omaha skyline in the distance."
Educational programming: Park naturalist programs enhance cabin stays. Lynn G. notes, "Make sure to look at their events calendar, they have exceptional programs for all ages (and especially kids). I learned about this park from Pheasants Forever, a nonprofit."
Unique caboose accommodations: Union Pacific Cabooses provide distinctive lodging options. Tony B. says, "They also have old remodeled Union Pacific caboose you can stay in."
Affordable electric sites: Arrowhead Park Campground offers budget-friendly options with good amenities. Martin-Charles S. reports, "20$ is a really good deal for a nice site with electricity, a picnic table on a cement slab and a hot free clean shower."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular cabin sites book quickly, especially during peak seasons. Matt S. advises about Hitchcock Nature Center, "The trail system isn't huge because of the size of the park, but it has a lot of up and down and is a great place to practice backpacking or test new gear."
Self-service check-in: Some parks offer convenient after-hours arrival processes. Abby W. shares about her experience at Hitchcock, "Stopped late after a long 12 hour drive. I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked."
Variable shower facilities: Platte River State Park Campground provides modern facilities with their cabins. Sarah H. notes, "Four stars instead of five because we prefer camping with our own equipment which isn't a feature at this park."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sound from nearby interstates. Maricris C. explains about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, "The only not so good thing about camping in this park is that it is so close to the interstate. My son was unable to fall asleep."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Sarah H. mentions about Arrowhead Park, "The kids enjoyed riding bikes up and down gravel roads, looking for frogs, and playing on the playground."
Educational nature centers: Lewis and Clark State Park offers historical exhibits and educational programming. Katie S. explains, "They have a replica of the Boat that Lewis and Clark traveled on many years ago. They will also occasionally take it out and give rides."
Swimming options: Several parks feature swimming areas for summer cooling off. Tony B. notes, "There is a swimming beach for kids, and river access when the river is low enough. I also recommend tubing down the Elkhorn through private companies, like 'Uncle Scott's'."
Affordable activities: Many parks offer reasonably priced recreation options. Sarah H. shares, "Canoe and paddle boat rental is extremely reasonable."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Two Rivers SRA, campsites vary significantly in quality and privacy. Jordan H. advises, "There's only one good campsite at this campground. It's more secluded and away from the rest. The others are pretty close to each other, I would recommend getting two campsites if you don't want neighbors."
Campsite types: Some locations offer first-come, first-served options while others require reservations. Shannon G. explains, "Half of this campground has electric and half has none. It is right next to lake 4 with some beach access. There are both reservable and walk up sites here."
Seasonal variations: Campground conditions change throughout the year. Jeremy L. notes about Two Rivers, "State park with many amenities! River and small lake fishing as well. No wifi, good T-Mobile cell service."
Site spacing considerations: RV campsites vary in size and proximity. Eric H. reports, "Sites were gravel, with a picnic table, fire ring, and electrical hookup. Our site was well shaded with trees."
