Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area offers tent and RV camping options about 40 miles north of Hickman, Nebraska, with elevation varying between 1,200-1,400 feet throughout the surrounding area. The campground provides multiple lakeside tent sites on tiered pads that create excellent water views. Peak camping season runs April through October, with most facilities remaining accessible during winter months for dedicated outdoor enthusiasts.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Waubonsie State Park Campground features extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels across the Loess Hills. A camper noted, "We took one of the more scenic trails and took us over the top of some of those beautiful Loess Hills." The ridge trails provide panoramic views across the Missouri River valley, approximately 75 minutes southwest of Hickman.
Fishing opportunities: Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area maintains well-stocked fishing areas with designated no-wake zones for paddlers. According to a visitor, "There's a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals." The lake contains multiple species including bass, walleye and catfish, making it popular with anglers throughout the season.
Water recreation: Lake Wanahoo provides excellent kayaking conditions for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. A reviewer mentioned, "Great fishing and kayaking lake! Bike path goes all the way around the lake." The 3-mile lake perimeter trail connects campground areas with day-use facilities, offering convenient access to various water activities.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Platte River State Park Campground offers more secluded camping options than other area facilities. A visitor commented, "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, primitive - hell they even have teepees!" The park's yurt camping provides a unique alternative between tent and cabin accommodations, with units spaced among wooded areas.
Campsite amenities: Legion Memorial Park maintains well-kept facilities with responsive management. One camper wrote, "Easy contactless check-in. Nice clean bathrooms with showers that are very clean." Most sites include water and electric hookups with ample space between camping areas.
Glamping options: For campers seeking upscale yurt camping near Hickman, Nebraska, several parks offer premium alternatives. A visitor to Camp A Way noted, "The patio sites are worth it for the swing, bbq and camp fire. Nice staff." Glamping units often include furnished interiors with heating/cooling systems and convenient proximity to restroom facilities.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Nebraska campgrounds experience significant seasonal variations. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter conditions can drop below freezing. Sites with tree cover provide crucial shade during hot months, as one camper at Lake Wanahoo observed, "There is very little shade available at this campground as it is a man-made area so bring the sunscreen."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A visitor to Branched Oak Lake recommended, "Plan ahead and reserve a spot or go early in the week otherwise you won't get a pad!!!" Many parks allow reservations 3-6 months in advance, with limited first-come sites available during weekdays.
Noise factors: Camp A Way Campground and other sites near major roadways experience traffic noise. A camper stated, "The highway is so close you can see the cars going by. It's extremely loud and constant highway sounds." RV camping provides better sound insulation than tent options at these locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A visitor to Camp A Way Campground mentioned, "Lots of fun activities for the kids. There is a hand-built playground, basketball court, slip n slide, bounce stuff for kids." Most campgrounds position play areas centrally within camping loops for easy supervision.
Swimming options: West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday maintains family swimming facilities appropriate for various age groups. According to a reviewer, "This destination was so fun! Sites are shaded and spacious. Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more!" The campground enforces safety rules regarding minimum ages for certain water features.
Educational programs: Several parks offer youth-oriented nature activities during summer months. Platte River State Park schedules ranger-led programs covering local wildlife, plant identification, and outdoor skills. Interactive displays and hiking challenges keep younger campers engaged throughout their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research specific pad dimensions before booking. A camper at Pine Grove RV Park noted, "The sites for big rigs are not 3 axle friendly. The site provided was not long or wide enough." Request corner or end sites when available for additional space.
Utility connections: Check hookup locations relative to your RV configuration. One reviewer mentioned, "The electrical box, water and sewer are placed too far to the rear of the site for a big rig to make a wide enough turn." Most parks accommodate standard connections, but older facilities may require extension cords or additional water hose sections.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds maintain year-round access for self-contained RVs even when water systems are winterized. Electrical sites typically remain functional throughout winter, though shower facilities may close. During shoulder seasons, reduced rates often apply for available sites.
