The Elkhorn and Platte Rivers shape the landscape around Gretna, Nebraska, a region characterized by gentle hills and river valleys with elevations between 1,100 and 1,200 feet. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August, making water access important for campers seeking relief from the heat. Most campgrounds near Gretna don't offer natural shade, with trees still maturing at newer facilities.
What to do
Hiking trails and waterfall views: Platte River State Park Campground, located in Louisville, features multiple hiking options ranging from paved walkways to more challenging terrain. "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, primitive - hell they even have teepees! On top of the excellent camping offered, they have a wealth of amazing hiking / biking trails that traverse through some amazing scenery," writes Jared J., highlighting the park's diverse trail system. The park's small waterfall provides a unique feature that draws photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Water recreation on multiple lakes: Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area offers a stocked fishery and non-motorized boating opportunities just 30 minutes from Gretna. A three-mile gravel trail circles the entire lake, connecting to the town of Wahoo. "It's a great place for kayaking or small boats," notes Carly P., adding that "the lake is regularly stocked" for fishing enthusiasts. Kayak and canoe rentals are available at select campgrounds seasonally.
Family activities beyond swimming: Camp A Way Campground in Lincoln (40 minutes from Gretna) features an extensive recreation area for families. "This place has tons for kids to do. There is a hand-built playground, basketball court, slip n slide, dog park, bounce stuff for kids," according to Heather A. The campground also maintains a swimming pool and hot tub, though age restrictions apply for certain facilities.
What campers like
Spacious premium campsites: West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday offers generously sized premium sites that provide more room than standard camping spots. "We stayed in a very large pull through on the west side of the campground (site 16). The KOA was pretty full but everyone was respectful and we didn't hear much noise. We had full hookups & the site we were in was spacious with a picnic table and fire ring with grate," says Glenda D., highlighting the comfort and privacy of these larger sites.
Wildlife viewing and nature education: Hitchcock County Nature Center in nearby Iowa features excellent bird watching opportunities from its hawk watch tower. "They have Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc. There are miles of trail available with backcountry camping available for $10 per night," writes Pat V. The center offers educational programs about local ecosystems and the unique Loess Hills landforms throughout the year.
Tent camping with water views: Lake Cunningham Campground in Omaha provides tent sites with excellent lake access. "Nice site for a tent camper passing through, beginner adventurers, glampers, or a family staycation. The entire park is well maintained, has a large lake stocked with fish, tent sites are close together, but tolerable," says Dana T. The campground reopened in 2022 after extensive renovations, with new concrete pads for RVs and improved facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The glamping season near Gretna runs primarily from April through October, with most water facilities and shower houses closed during winter months. Lake Wanahoo remains open year-round, though A.H. advises, "You have to book early to get one" of the prime waterfront sites. A special permit is required to camp at Lake Wanahoo, which must be purchased separately from the campsite fee.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations in Gretna require advance reservations, particularly for premium sites. "We always stop here when we're traveling on I-80. We've stopped on a couple of holidays & a reservation is a must! They are very busy!" explains Cynthia K. about West Omaha KOA. Holiday weekends often book up 3-6 months in advance for glamping sites.
Shade limitations: New glamping areas often lack mature trees. "Lake Wanahoo is a fairly new lake in Saunders county Nebraska... Unfortunately when the lake and campground were built they planted saplings, so during the hot months there is no shade to be found," notes Pat V. Campers need to bring their own shade structures for summer glamping in Gretna, Nebraska when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Cottonwood — Two Rivers SRA offers multiple recreation options for children. "Two rivers is my favorite Nebraska hidden gem! The state Rec Park is by both the Elkhorn and Platte rivers, thus its name, Two Rivers," explains Morgan W. The park features "several lakes with a variety of different fishing options...A swimming beach for kids, and river access when the river is low enough." Tubing down the Elkhorn River is available through private outfitters like Uncle Scott's.
Playground access: West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday maintains play equipment specifically designed for younger campers. "Nice park. Clean showers & restrooms," writes Angie P. in her straightforward assessment. Another camper, Megan E., adds "neighbors are close not much of your own space but there is a play ground for the kids that's wonderful!!!!!" The playground provides entertainment options during downtime at camp.
Budget options: For families seeking more affordable glamping in Gretna, several campgrounds offer basic tent sites with amenities at lower price points. "First come, first serve campground city park. Large lake, walking trail," writes Barbara P. about Weeping Water, which charges just $7 for tent campers compared to the $30+ rates at premium glamping sites. These budget options still provide access to fishing and trails while reducing costs.
Tips from RVers
Highway proximity considerations: Several glamping spots near Gretna sit close to Interstate 80, creating ambient noise issues. "Camp A Way Campground is right next to the interstate. Since we were site seeing around the area it was convenient instead of the more nature excursion camping trip. But the traffic noise is not the most desirable," writes GW C., highlighting both convenience and drawbacks of highway-adjacent camping.
Dump station access: RVers should note varying dump station arrangements at glamping facilities. "To get to the dump station you have to leave the campground, get on the highway and drive to the opposite side of the lake to the day use area," reports Pat V. about Lake Wanahoo, describing an inconvenience that affects longer stays. Most sites offer dump stations, but locations may require additional driving.
Electric service options: Glamping sites in the Gretna region offer various hookup configurations. Pine Grove RV Park provides both 30-amp and 50-amp service for larger rigs. "We stayed for only a night while passing though. The campgrounds were very clean, sites well maintained bathroom and showers were clean as well," notes Eileen H. Sites with full hookups command premium prices, while electric-only sites offer more affordable alternatives for self-contained units.
