Andy T.
Scout
ScoutSyracuse City
Great little find
Ten dollars a night for a electrical hookup, green grass and peace of mind. Perfect, just pull in, find a vacant pedestal and make yourself at home. 510 Midland Street
Camping near Gretna, NE
109 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
State recreation areas and developed campgrounds surround Gretna, Nebraska, providing a mix of camping experiences within a 30-minute drive. The West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday sits directly in Gretna, offering year-round camping with full hookups for RVs, tent sites, cabins, and glamping options. Within easy driving distance, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park in Ashland features family-oriented camping with modern amenities, while Platte River State Park in Louisville provides a more natural setting with tent sites, RV pads, cabins, and yurts. Most campgrounds in this region are situated near lakes or along the Platte River, creating opportunities for water recreation alongside camping.
Nebraska state parks require entrance permits, with higher fees for out-of-state vehicles. As one camper noted, "This is a state-funded park, so non-Nebraska plated cars have an additional fee." Many campgrounds in the area operate year-round, though summer brings higher occupancy and more recreational activities. Train noise affects several campgrounds, particularly Louisville State Recreation Area, where campers report: "Packing earplugs is a must, but it won't completely help you. There is a train that goes very near the grounds and it needs to use its horn while passing through, which happens A LOT." Weather conditions vary dramatically by season, with hot, humid summers and cold winters that limit water activities.
Lakeside camping receives consistently positive reviews from visitors to the Gretna area. Many campgrounds feature swimming beaches, boat ramps, and fishing docks, with speed limits typically restricting motorized boats to 5 mph on smaller lakes. Shade can be limited at some locations, as newer recreation areas haven't developed mature tree cover. A reviewer at Lake Wanahoo noted: "With the age of this lake there are no mature trees around. As you would expect it will make tent camping difficult for some on hot days." Family-friendly amenities are common at larger campgrounds, with Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offering extensive recreation facilities including an aquatic center and zip lines. More primitive options exist for those seeking quieter experiences, with Memphis Lake State Recreation Area described as the place to go "if you want to get away in Nebraska."
Best Campgrounds near Gretna (109)
1. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
"Nestled between two major cities in Nebraska, you're never far away from anything you may want to do or see. RV and tent camping is obviously available with limited privacy."
"We used to stop here as a midway point when driving to Colorado. We always stayed at the lodge for a night and had a pleasant time exploring the area."
from $25 - $485 / night
Check Availability2. West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday
"Very close to the Nebraska crossing outlet mall! 😊"
"The campground itself was fine and very convenient in location to vIsIt famIly."
3. Platte River State Park Campground
"We were passing through Nebraska and opted to stay the night here. The campground is new and will be even nicer when the trees are big enough to provide shade."
"Short walk in but a wagon is provided to help unload equipment. Picnic and fire pit near the teepee."
from $35 - $340 / night
Check Availability4. Louisville State Recreation Area Campground
"A HUGE campground with around 250 total sites, with options ranging from walk-in camping tent-only sites to RV areas. There is a 3 decent-size lakes spread evenly across the grounds."
"I am sorry 😔 but I have nut yet been to any of Nebraska's Camping grounds your's well be the first."
from $15 - $35 / night
Check Availability5. Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area
"This is a nice campground located on the edge of Papillion, Nebraska. There are several trails nearby, some paved and others grass. The main trailhead is easily accessible from the park road."
"This is a very cool park in Papillion, Nebraska! It also has a sewer dump site for $5 (if you're not camping). See the camp host to pay."
from $20 / night
Check Availability6. Memphis Lake State Rec Area
"If you want to get away in Nebraska, this is the place. There’s no electricity or running water. The outhouses are kinda gross. There’s an awesome bar right outside the park, too."
"Great little stocked fishing lake with sites all fairly close to the long northern shore of the lake. Redwing blackbirds, geese, and lightning bugs tucked in between the corn fields."
from $10 - $35 / night
Check Availability7. Union Pacific Cabooses — Two Rivers SRA
"The fishing is easy in all the lakes and they have a pay fishing trout lake that nearly guarantees success. Our kid and her friends love the swimming beach."
"Whether I was riding a bike around the paved roads. Fishing in one of the sandpit lakes they have to offer, or the river. Walk around the nature trails, or lakes."
from $100 / night
Check Availability8. Riverside Campground — Two Rivers SRA
"We've even walked through the water to go play on the "islands". There is a convenience store ran by a very nice family and they make a great breakfast for a low cost."
"A short drive from Omaha, two rivers offers generally clean TV and tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds. I camped right by the river. Also a short walk to the outhouse and playground."
from $15 / night
Check Availability9. Pine Grove RV Park & Campground
"Close (but not too close) to I-80, we stayed here as a way point cruising across Wyoming/Nebraska/Iowa. Clean facilities, quiet vibe, it was just what we needed after a long day of driving."
"Convenient location right off the highway, but with that you do get the noise. Has a playground and pool as will as a convenience store. Bathrooms and showers were clean."
from $27 - $55 / night
Check Availability10. Goldenrod Campground — Two Rivers SRA
"It is right next to lake 4 with some beach access. There are both reservable and walk up sites here. The walk up process is a little strange."
"Very nice camp sites and playgrounds for children nice clean fishing lakes and river access."
from $30 / night
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Drive Time
- 13 min from Omaha, NE
- 32 min from Lincoln, NE
- 1 hr 32 min from Sioux City, IA
- 1 hr 47 min from Grand Island, NE
Recent Camping Photos near Gretna, NE
104 Photos of 109 Gretna Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA HolidayS
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
Union Pacific Cabooses — Two Rivers SRA
Riverside Campground — Two Rivers SRA
Tentrr State Park Site - Nebraska Louisville SRA Riverview D Single Camp
Louisville State Recreation Area Campground
Tentrr State Park Site - Nebraska Louisville SRA - Riverview C - Single Camp
Cottonwood — Two Rivers SRA
Platte River State Park Campground
Memphis Lake State Rec Area
Lake Cunningham Campground
Haworth City Park
Recent Reviews near Gretna, NE
645 Reviews of 109 Gretna Campgrounds
Gerard E.
LegendEugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
August 31, 2026
Little Creek section site 42, August 31, 2026, 85 degrees at 7pm. Pad was asphalt and level, good angle for backing in. 20/30amp, T-Mobile 5G was great. Green grass everywhere, we saw deer , squirrels and turkeys. CG was empty, showers and toilets are in the same building, older but nice.
All of the sites were paved and level, the grass may not be level and the tables and pits were fine.
Some noise at night from the highway, but the frogs, crickets and peepers were louder than the road noise. Loud trains at night.
Trash and water spigot were close to site. All of the ADA compatible campsites were brand new concrete very nice
- BBRIAN F.
GuideConestoga State Recreation Area
Under renovation
Half the campsites are gone as there’s a renovation underway. Those that remain are somewhat overgrown. Campground is still FFS and costs $25 for a site with electric hook up. Didn’t see any sites with water available. You also need a NE parks sticker to stay there. You can buy a 1 day pass for $14 so a non-NE resident pays $39 for a nights stay…cash only. Vault toilet near campground is pretty bad…short walk to vault toilet near lake which is much better. Should be a nice spot when renovations are complete. Plenty of grass to walk a dog.
- SSherri B.Guide
Pathfinder Campground — Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area
Family friendly
Active on weekends with families. Activities include swimming, fishing, boating, jet skiing, and more. Roads and campsites are paved. The bathhouse has coin operated showers with private stalls. Restaurant with bar on premises. Campground located along lake with active railroad tracks on other side of lake.
A E.Guidetwin lakes WMA Nebraska
Permit Required
I don't remember any of the other reviews mentioning this, but a permit is required to enter the park, so technically it is not free dispersed camping.
- SShelby A.
TravelerRiverside Campground — Two Rivers SRA
Good, but could get crowded
Campsites are grassy and mostly level, though there were a few that had standing water from a thunderstorm earlier that morning. There is not any privacy between campsites and sites are right next to each other. We were lucky to come on a weekend that wasn’t very busy, and I could easily see this campsite get very crowded around holidays. The pit toilets needed a good clean, but other facilities seem maintained.
Ron G.ScoutCarol Joy Holling Camp Family Campground
Very quiet and plenty of room
Easy check in ,and plenty of room, water and electric. Plenty of things to do in the area
- EEthan O.Scout
Wildwood Lake
Wildwood
I love how quite it is and how little to no one that is here it’s the best experience
Eddy A.ScoutBartlett Shores
5/5 Stars for Bartlett Shores! 🌟
My parents stayed in one of the tiny homes during their visit, and it exceeded every expectation. It was super quiet, serene, and so charming. They had the best time, and I couldn't be happier with how relaxing their stay was!
Guide to Gretna
Campsite options near Gretna, Nebraska range from primitive tent camping to full-service RV parks, with most facilities operating year-round despite seasonal challenges. The area sits at approximately 1,250 feet above sea level along the Platte River valley, creating a landscape that transitions between wooded riverbanks and open prairie. Local campgrounds contend with periodic flooding during spring snowmelt, and sites directly along waterways often require advance planning due to their popularity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Memphis Lake State Rec Area, campers enjoy lakeside access with multiple fishing spots. "This lake has great fishing and has peace, and quiet. The lake is a no wake zone, so kayaks, and canoes are great," notes Tony B., highlighting the relaxed atmosphere for anglers.
Paddling activities: Kayaking and canoeing are popular at many local lakes. "We went paddle boating, swimming, and horse back riding," reports Maricris C. about her experience at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. Most lakes have rental options available during summer months for approximately $10-15 per hour.
Archery and shooting: Some parks offer specialized ranges for target practice. "The park has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom," explains Robin E. about Two Rivers State Recreation Area, making it ideal for skill development.
Hiking trails: While not extensive, the area does have some natural paths. "The trails are well kept up and easy to follow. The small waterfall was a nice surprise as well!" Aaron A. mentions about Platte River State Park's trail system, which includes several miles of interconnected paths.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Platte River State Park Campground, tent sites receive positive reviews for spacing. "Enjoy the 4 tent sites. They are spread apart enough that your not on top of each other. Lots of wood to find on the ground," notes Erik M., highlighting the comfort of having personal space.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to see local fauna. "The park has deer and turkey and many birds. There is also fishing," Robin E. mentions about Riverside Campground, pointing out the diverse wildlife that makes camping experiences more memorable.
Water recreation: Swimming and beach areas are available at several locations. "There is a swimming area along the beach of Lake 2," explains Daniel B. about Louisville State Recreation Area. Most swimming areas are open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Unique accommodation options: Beyond traditional camping, some parks offer distinctive lodging. "They also have old remodeled Union Pacific caboose you can stay in," Tony B. shares about Two Rivers SRA, providing an alternative for those seeking unusual camping experiences.
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Louisville State Recreation Area experiences significant railroad disruptions. "We liked everything about this area but the train tracks! Be selective on where you pitch the tent. It can get loud," warns Chrisne E., emphasizing the importance of site selection for light sleepers.
Seasonal water conditions: Spring flooding can affect camping areas near rivers. "When the river is low, you can go play on the beach. We've even walked through the water to go play on the 'islands'," Robin E. explains about the changing conditions at Riverside Campground.
Site limitations: Some campgrounds have terrain challenges. "The campsites were decently spaced. Our site was terrible crowded," notes Timothy at Goldenrod Campground, highlighting that not all sites offer equal space and privacy.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between parks. "The bathrooms could use a upgrade or a good cleaning, and the one by are site was locked up and not open," Tony B. mentions about Memphis Lake State Rec Area, suggesting campers should be prepared with alternatives.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "The campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids including paddleboating, a wave pool, horse riding, ziplining, and playgrounds," Jennifer M. notes about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
Swimming options: Water features are particularly popular for families. "This campground had amazing staff, was clean, and had great amenities. The sites are very small however, and to do anything besides swim and play on the playground you need to drive," explains Rebekah S. about West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday.
Biking opportunities: Paved roads around campgrounds provide safe cycling for younger riders. "It's flat and easy for young kids to bike around all the different lakes(ponds). Plus the Platte river is right there too that adds a great ambient sound," shares Justin R. about Two Rivers State Recreation Area.
Budget-friendly meals: Some parks have affordable dining options. "There is a convenience store ran by a very nice family and they make a great breakfast for a low cost. We like to get up early and walk across the park to breakfast and then walk back to our campsite," Robin E. mentions about their family routine at Two Rivers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choosing the right RV site can dramatically impact experience. "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," Stacy M. warns about the West Omaha KOA, suggesting advance research on site dimensions.
Dumping facilities: Access to sanitation services varies between parks. "This is a very cool park in Papillion, Nebraska! It also has a sewer dump site for $5 (if you're not camping). See the camp host to pay," Trav S. notes about Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area, providing useful information for those passing through.
Electric hookup considerations: Power options differ across campgrounds. "Half of this campground has electric and half has none. It is right next to lake 4 with some beach access," Shannon G. explains about Goldenrod Campground, highlighting the importance of confirming utilities when booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Gretna, NE?
What camping is available near Gretna, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, Gretna, NE offers a wide range of camping options, with 109 campgrounds and RV parks near Gretna, NE and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Gretna, NE?
Which is the most popular campground near Gretna, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gretna, NE is Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 48 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gretna, NE?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gretna, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Gretna, NE.
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