Best Camping near Brainard, NE

Brainard, NE is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Nebraska camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Brainard, NE (85)

    Camper-submitted photo from Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area

    1.

    Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area

    26 Reviews
    55 Photos
    28 Saves
    Malcolm, Nebraska
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $8 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp A Way Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp A Way Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp A Way Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp A Way Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp A Way Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp A Way Campground

    2.

    Camp A Way Campground

    29 Reviews
    61 Photos
    77 Saves
    Lincoln, Nebraska

    Camp A Way Campground, located near Lincoln, NE, is a solid choice for families and travelers looking for a convenient stop with plenty of amenities. This place is open all year and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations.

    One of the standout features here is the range of activities for kids. There's a playground, a pool, and even a trampoline basketball court. For a small fee, kids can enjoy ice cream, slushies, and water balloons, making it a fun spot for families. The campground also has a dog park, so your furry friends are welcome too.

    The staff here are known for being friendly and helpful, which always makes a stay more pleasant. The campground is well-maintained, with clean bathrooms and showers, and even laundry facilities. If you're into staying connected, the WiFi is reportedly pretty good.

    Now, if you're just passing through and need a place to rest, this campground is conveniently located near major highways. It's not the quietest spot due to the proximity to the interstates, but it's perfect for a quick overnight stop with full hookups.

    For those who like a bit of luxury, there are premium sites with patios, new furniture, and full hookups. It's close to Lincoln, so you can easily pop into the city for some local attractions or a bite to eat.

    Overall, Camp A Way Campground offers a mix of convenience, family-friendly activities, and essential amenities, making it a reliable choice for both short stays and longer visits.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $67 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pawnee State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawnee State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawnee State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawnee State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawnee State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawnee State Recreation Area

    3.

    Pawnee State Recreation Area

    22 Reviews
    54 Photos
    107 Saves
    Malcolm, Nebraska

    Pawnee State Recreation Area, nestled near Lincoln, NE, offers a year-round escape with a mix of natural beauty and practical amenities. This campground is a favorite for many, thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained facilities. The park features a variety of sites suitable for both tent and RV camping, with some spots offering electric hookups.

    One of the standout features here is the abundance of mature shade trees, providing a cool respite during the warmer months. The park also boasts clean and updated restrooms and shower facilities, though you'll need to bring quarters for the showers.

    For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Pawnee State Recreation Area has plenty to offer. There are numerous hiking trails, including some mowed/natural paths, and a fun 9-hole disc golf course in Area 1. If you're into water activities, there's a swimming beach, although it's best enjoyed in the warmer months.

    Pets are welcome, and you'll often see fellow campers with their dogs enjoying the trails and open spaces. The park also has a sanitary dump station and trash facilities, making it convenient for longer stays.

    While some visitors have noted the higher fees for out-of-state campers, many appreciate the park's tranquility and the privacy offered by the well-spaced sites. Whether you're passing through or planning a longer stay, Pawnee State Recreation Area provides a serene and enjoyable camping experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground

    4.

    Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    85 Photos
    151 Saves
    Ashland, Nebraska

    Mahoney State Park offer Full Hookup, Electric Plus and Electric campsites. There are a total of 148 campsites. Lakeside Campground (100-148 campsites) are located close to Baright Lake and Owen Marina. Little Creek Campground (1-99 campsites) is close to a playground, basketball court and the coin operated laundry facility. Both campgrounds have drinking water, showers and modern restrooms. A dump and fill station is located conveniently near the park entrance.

    Tent camping is available at Mahoney State Park in the two modern campgrounds. Tent campers will use the grassy area next to the pad site to set up their tent. Those tenting will pay the camping fee applicable to the site occupied. If making reservations, look for the site description of “tentable.” This means there is a level grassy space for a tent.

    Reservations are accepted for half of the campsites in Lakeside and Little Creek campgrounds up to 180 days in advance of arrival date and paid in full at the time the reservation is made. All other camping at Mahoney State Park is first-come, first-served. Campers with advance reservations and those camping first-come, first-served must stop at the Lauritzen Administration building located at the park entrance to check-in or register to camp prior to setting up on a campsite. If arriving after hours, campers must go to the Peter Kiewit Lodge customer service desk and check in or register for a first-come, first-served site.

    This modern state park is the perfect year round destination for a family escape. Families can visit the aquatic center and indoor playground, explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, adventure through the treetop ropes course, climb the observation tower and, when the weather turns cold, enjoy indoor rock climbing, sledding and ice skating. The jewel of the park is Peter Kiewit Lodge, which offers 40 guest rooms, most with balconies that offer a stunning view of the Platte River valley. The park also offers an arts and crafts center, an array of cabins, as well as camping opportunities. Mahoney State Park is located midway between Nebraska’s two largest cities, Lincoln and Omaha and is open year round.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday

    5.

    West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday

    29 Reviews
    30 Photos
    68 Saves
    Gretna, Nebraska

    There's plenty to do at this award-winning KOA, just a short drive from downtown Omaha and Lincoln. Enjoy the Jumping Pillow, mini zip line, pedal karts, banana bikes, large playground, swimming pool, mini golf, basketball, sand volleyball, badminton and horseshoes. Weekends (Memorial Day to Labor Day) feature breakfast in the Cornhusker Cafe, hayrides, ice cream socials, movie nights, tie-dye and other planned activities. Area attractions include the Henry Doorly Zoo, Strategic Air & Space Museum, Boys Town and museums, and the new beautiful Nebraska Crossing Outlet Mall. Nearby, enjoy wineries, casinos, top - rated golf courses and hiking/biking trails. Patio RV Sites and Deluxe Cabins make camping seem like a luxury vacation. Wings and freshly made pizza get rave reviews: You can even have them delivered to your site! Fido will love the off-leash doggie playground. Pool: Memorial Weekend - Labor Day Weekend. Max pull thru: 90 feet. Your hosts: Carrol & Eric Murray.

    This West Omaha KOA campground offers Nebraska camping at its finest! Our campground is Big-Rig friendly, with 80-foot full-hook-up pull-throughs and 50-amp service available. You can also enjoy our scenic tent sites, or stay cozy in one of the cabins. Our cabins and deluxe cabins are all heated and air-conditioned for your maximum comfort. All cabins and RV sites have cable TV.

    Once you're here, relax under a huge shade tree or activities, then refuel with a freshly made pizza - delivered right to your campsite! Or, enjoy breakfast in our tropical Cornhusker Cafe.

    Canine owners will love our K-9 Park, where you can let Fido romp and play off the leash.

    Your KOA hosts will be happy to provide you with information and maps to the many fun places to see. Come visit us - we'll make you feel welcome!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area

    6.

    Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area

    10 Reviews
    26 Photos
    20 Saves
    Wahoo, Nebraska

    Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area, located just outside of Wahoo, NE, is a solid spot for camping year-round. This place is a gem for those who love fishing and kayaking. The lake is well-stocked, and there's a bike path that circles the entire lake, making it perfect for a leisurely ride or a morning jog.

    The campsites here are spacious and well-maintained. If you want a prime spot, aim for the ones along the water, but be sure to book early. The tent camping area is vast, offering great views of the lake from almost any spot. RV campers will find gravel and grass pads, with the latter providing a bit more room to spread out.

    One thing to note: there's not much shade since the trees are still growing, so bring some sun protection, especially during the hotter months. The campground has all the essentials—picnic tables, fire rings, and clean restrooms with showers. There's even a sanitary dump and water hookups for RVs.

    For those with kids, there are two large play areas to keep them entertained. And if you're into bird watching, this place won't disappoint. Pets are welcome too, as long as they're on a leash.

    A special permit is required to camp here, which is a bit of a hassle, but it's worth it for the serene environment and the excellent fishing. Plus, the town of Wahoo is nearby, and it has a cool butcher shop where you can grab some steaks or hot dogs for the grill.

    Overall, Lake Wanahoo is a great spot to relax, fish, and enjoy the outdoors. Just remember to pack some sunscreen and maybe a good book for those lazy afternoons by the lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Rivers State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Rivers State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Rivers State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Rivers State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Rivers State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Rivers State Recreation Area

    7.

    Two Rivers State Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    101 Photos
    66 Saves
    Waterloo, Nebraska
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Platte River State Park Campground

    8.

    Platte River State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    95 Photos
    182 Saves
    South Bend, Nebraska

    Platte River State Park is nestled halfway between Nebraska’s two largest cities – and makes a great place for camping near Omaha. Before it was a state park it was two separate camps – Harriet Harding Campfire Girls Camp and Camp Esther K. Newman – and a tract of woodlands. The charming, vintage cabins that once housed campers today provide cozy accommodations while the gorgeous new glamping cabins offer a luxurious yet nature-immersive experience. Other popular draws are the park’s picturesque waterfall, spray park, scenic hiking and biking trails and two observation towers that allow those who climb to the top a spectacular view of the Platte River Basin.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 - $165 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Point Wetland
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Point Wetland
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Point Wetland
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Point Wetland
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Point Wetland
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Point Wetland
    Camper-submitted photo from Area One Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Area One Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Area One Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Area One Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Area One Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Area One Campground

    10.

    Area One Campground

    5 Reviews
    47 Photos
    31 Saves
    Malcolm, Nebraska
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 85 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Brainard

Recent Reviews In Brainard

474 Reviews of 85 Brainard Campgrounds


    No Reviews Found



Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Brainard, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, Brainard, NE offers a wide range of camping options, with 85 campgrounds and RV parks near Brainard, NE and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Brainard, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Brainard, NE is Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area with a 4.2-star rating from 26 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Brainard, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Brainard, NE.

What parks are near Brainard, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Brainard, NE that allow camping, notably Homme Lake and Sakakawea Lake.