West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday and Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area are among the top camping options for families bringing pets near Boys Town, Nebraska. Located on the eastern edge of Nebraska's Great Plains region at approximately 1,090 feet elevation, the area offers relatively mild spring and fall camping seasons with hot summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in July and August. Most campgrounds stay open year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Explore hiking trails with your dog: Hitchcock Nature Center provides varied terrain for all hiking levels, with some trails offering panoramic views. "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below," notes one camper at Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Paddle with your pet: Lake Cunningham allows leashed pets to join while boating. "Fishing, paddle board rentals, and a park are a few things to do. Awesome place!" according to a visitor at Lake Cunningham Campground.
Winter camping options: Unlike many regional campgrounds, some sites remain open year-round. "Wednesday at 3pm there were 8 sites open. Nice city park. Electric hookups. Water spigot about the park. Dump station by the entrance," reports a winter camper at Walnut Creek.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Some campgrounds offer excellent amenities at lower price points. "Great back-in site w/30 amp electrical pulg in, no water at site. Site is overlooking a small lake. Very quiet, dump station. All for $20 a night," shares a reviewer at Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area.
Spacious site layouts: Many campers appreciate the breathing room between sites at newer campgrounds. "Tons of room between spots. Mini store on the property to buy ice, firewood, and food from," notes one Lake Cunningham visitor.
Access to water recreation: Multiple campgrounds offer dog-friendly fishing and non-motorized boating options. At Platte River State Park Campground, "You can hike the many hiking trails to the mini waterfall, or Platte river. They have paddle boat and Kayak rentals."
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: Louisville State Recreation Area has frequent train traffic. "The train noise all night," warns one camper, while another explains, "Train tracks near the campground aren't terrible but can be distracting at the beginning of the night."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground, "books up months in advance and the crowds can get a bit annoying!"
Limited shade at newer facilities: Some recently developed campgrounds lack mature trees. "Open campsites with not much shade. Easy setup for our campsite," mentions a Walnut Creek visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer extensive recreational options beyond typical hiking and fishing. "This place has it all... hiking trails, frisbee golf, horseback riding, driving range, fishing, tennis courts, river views, cabins!" shares an Eugene T. Mahoney State Park visitor.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature well-maintained play areas for children. "The range of different camping options and amenities is incredible. The facilities are well maintained, the staff is friendly and helpful," according to a review of West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday.
Pet-friendly water play: Several campgrounds allow pets to cool off in designated areas. "I like the beach for letting my dog swim!" notes a Lake Cunningham visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research site placement carefully. "The sites are very small however, and to do anything besides swim and play on the playground you need to drive," advises a West Omaha KOA visitor.
Dump station availability: Dump stations are available at most campgrounds, even if full hookups aren't. "There is a sewer dump site for $5 (if you're not camping). See the camp host to pay," explains a Walnut Creek camper.
Electrical hookups: Most campgrounds offer multiple electrical connection options. "Full access with concrete pad. Tons of room between spots," notes a Lake Cunningham visitor about their newer RV sites.
