109 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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."
"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 Availability"Very close to the Nebraska crossing outlet mall! 😊"
"The campground itself was fine and very convenient in location to vIsIt famIly."
"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 Availability"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 Availability"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 Availability"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 Availability"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 Availability"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 Availability"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 Availability"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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GuideActive 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.
GuideI 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.
TravelerCampsites 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.
ScoutEasy check in ,and plenty of room, water and electric. Plenty of things to do in the area
ScoutI love how quite it is and how little to no one that is here it’s the best experience
ScoutMy 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!
ScoutWe stayed here March - June this year. The staff was always friendly and helpful, and there have been many upgrades done to the park. Would be happy to stay there again if we’re back in the area.
ScoutOverall we enjoyed our stay, the amenities that came with the glamping tent are great. We enjoyed that it came with a mini fridge and paper products that were needed. Would have enjoyed a list of all the items and amenities that the glamping tent came with. We brought a lot of extra stuff that wasn’t needed because we were unsure of what the glamping tent supplied. It’s probably time for new linens on the bed as the sheets and pillowcases have many stains on them. The wood that is provided isn’t enough for the whole weekend, so do recommend bringing a bundle of your own. The glamping tent requires you to use porta potties which is fine, but their bathrooms weren’t clean. They would probably benefit from daily cleaning. As far as sweeping out cobwebs, dead bugs, and trash. Definitely need an upgrade the shower house, I personally would never be able to shower in a facility that isn’t clean. Overall the bathroom facilities need some attention, but the tent was enjoyable.
GuideThere were more people than I expected there on a Monday evening, but we were able to find a spot with 30A to set up. We didn’t even need blocks, as it was perfectly level. Just pulled into the grass next to the electric and had no issues. Great for a quick overnight, especially for just $10.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gretna, NE is Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 47 reviews.
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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