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.
