Cabin rentals near Du Bois, Nebraska provide rustic shelter options within the undulating terrain of the Loess Hills and Missouri River floodplain. Winter temperatures can drop below 10°F, making cabins a comfortable alternative during colder seasons when tent camping becomes impractical. Most rental cabins in the region sit between 900-1100 feet in elevation, with seasonal closures affecting availability from November through March at some locations.
What to do
Hiking trail access: At Waubonsie State Park Campground, several hiking difficulty levels accommodate different experience levels. "The hiking trails are not for bikes, and they have several different levels or skills levels. The look out was pretty cool as well," notes a visitor who appreciated the varied terrain options.
Fishing opportunities: Big Lake State Park Campground offers lakeside sites ideal for fishing enthusiasts. One camper observed, "Nice lake, campground was good, there are basic sites up against the lake and the rest are electric. Basic sites are large and some of the electric are also."
Wildlife viewing: Morning hours provide optimal wildlife spotting at Hidden Falls, particularly during spring migration. "This park was a great place to head to and unplug for a weekend," mentions a visitor who enjoyed the natural setting at Waubonsie State Park, adding "There are signs in the bathrooms warning of the raccoons. These signs are not exaggerating."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Maintaining hygiene remains a priority at Big Lake State Park Campground where bathroom facilities receive regular attention. A camper shared, "The grounds have private bathrooms with toilets and showers. There are two nice playgrounds and a swimming pool."
Spacious campsites: Several parks offer strategic site positioning for privacy, with Waubonsie State Park Campground providing both secluded and connected options. "We camped in the area without hookups, so we pretty much had that area to ourselves. The area with hookups was somewhat crowded," reports one visitor.
Recreational variety: Family-friendly activities extend beyond cabin amenities at Sycamore Springs Whitetail Ranch RV Park. As one visitor documented, "There is a skating rink, tennis courts, basketball court, mini golf, and small park for children. You have to buy an activity pass for everything which is $10 a day."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Summer cabin bookings fill quickly, particularly at White Cloud Casino where limited availability requires planning 2-3 months ahead. "White cloud casino has six RV site was water 20 30 and 50 amp electric first come first serve," notes one visitor regarding the limited accommodations.
Seasonal closures: Several parks reduce services during winter months with limited staff presence. "We stayed through Monday. Sunday was completely empty except for our family which made it slightly eerie at night," reports a camper at Sycamore Springs.
Activity passes: Additional fees apply for certain recreational facilities beyond basic cabin rental costs. At Sycamore Springs, "If you're camping you get one activity pass for free. Children 5 and under are free as well. Sundays are free as well."
Wildlife encounters: Food storage containers should be secured, particularly at night. One Waubonsie camper warned, "We had a raccoon at our campsite trying to steal our food while we were there, like the raccoon was less than 10 feet from humans during mid-day."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children benefit from dedicated play areas at Big Lake State Park Campground. "Great playground area for the kids," mentions one camper who appreciated the child-friendly amenities.
Biking opportunities: Flat road systems provide safe cycling for younger riders. A visitor to Big Lake State Park noted, "Lots of flat roads for biking though!"
Swimming options: Seasonal pool access varies by location and maintenance schedules. "At the time of our visit, improvements were being made to the pool and restrooms. The campsites are spaced and right on the lake," shares one Big Lake State Park visitor.
Activity planning: Limited entertainment options beyond outdoor recreation require preparation. "Not much in the area to visit if fishing isn't your thing though!" cautions a Big Lake State Park camper who recommends planning activities in advance.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Several campgrounds feature pull-through sites but size restrictions apply. According to a Sycamore Springs visitor, "The RV spots are pretty close together so backing in can be a challenge. The Sycamore Bluff Campground to the North of the campground has pull-through spots."
Wind exposure: Lakefront sites experience stronger winds, requiring additional stabilization. A camper at Big Lake State Park advises, "Fair warning the wind blows off the lake and can be very chilly."
Hookup variety: Electric options range from 20-50 amp service depending on location, with varying water access. A visitor to Big Lake State Park explained, "Both back in and pull through sites available with electric, dump site, and fresh water fill station."
