Glamping near Kearney, Nebraska offers accommodations on several lakeside properties scattered across the Platte River Valley. The region sits at approximately 2,100 feet elevation with hot summers reaching 90°F and winter lows below freezing. Most upscale camping options remain open from April through October with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Main Area Campground in Elwood features waterfront sites ideal for fishing enthusiasts. "We chose one on the end with trees on one side so more privacy! Kayak access down the road from our spot!" reports Natalee M., who appreciated the campground's proximity to water recreation.
Visit historic sites: War Axe State Rec Area provides convenient access to regional attractions while offering primitive camping options. Crystal C. notes, "Nebraska is abounding with recreation areas many within a reasonable distance of the main highway running across the state. But War Axe, a much smaller area offers immediate access to fishing and fun within only 30 seconds of the highway!"
Swimming options: Kearney RV Park & Campground maintains a swimming area on their property. Edward K. states, "The lake was very nice and our kids enjoyed playing in the water. The staff was very nice, and helpful."
Bike trail access: Main Area Campground connects to regional trails. Karl W. mentions, "It is right on a bike/walking path that goes into the city and to the archway that is super convenient."
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers sites with mature trees. Jessica C. explains, "My husband and I were able to get a primitive site right next to one of the lakes. Our site was secluded from the other campers but it was a bit of a walk to the vault toilets. We even saw some deer in the field next to the campground."
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms across several properties. Jeana K. observed at Kearney RV Park & Campground: "Great wifi and the cleanest/nicest bathroom and shower area!"
Lake views: Main Area Campground receives praise for its waterfront locations. Kelvin T. shares, "One of my favorite campgrounds by far. There were plenty of sites during my stay in October, and the site I stayed at was right next to the lake. In the morning, the trees were beautifully lined along the campsites."
Easy access: War Axe State Rec Area provides convenient highway proximity. Frances notes, "There are about 10 spots around the pond. We took one of the 3 pull through right next to I-80. Plenty of space, level, shade and if you just look at the lake: quit a nice view."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds near Kearney operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Sue B. advises about Main Area Campground: "A nice campground located on a beautiful lake. Several first come first serve sites that were wooded. A welcome find on a Saturday night without reservation."
State park permits: War Axe State Rec Area and other Nebraska recreation areas require state park permits. Crystal C. cautions, "One thing to be said for any recreation area in Nebraska is a friendly reminder that you will need an access pass to stay here or even visit. These cannot be obtained at the site and must be repurchased before visiting either online or at one of the main offices."
Seasonal pricing: Campground rates fluctuate throughout the year. Susan L. notes about Fort Kearny State Recreation Area: "A daily vehicle park permit is required and when this is added in to the cost, it's a bit pricey for what it is, but the Recreation Area has a lot going for it."
Highway noise: Several glamping options near Kearney have proximity to Interstate 80. Melanie T. explains about Kearney RV Park & Campground: "Being right next to the highway very bad road noise. Had to turn the fan on high to drown it out. Other than that, this is a great campground."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Elwood Resort and Campground provides calm shorelines suitable for children. Rachel K. reports, "We have 3 littles and the campground was so quiet it felt like our own great views and so peaceful!"
Playgrounds and recreation: Grand Island KOA offers multiple amenities for children. Dawn I. shares, "The pool is cool and tucked away in the back. The store sold single local beers and was open late. They were slinging hot pizza. We stayed in an air conditioned camping cabin. Super close to the pool and bathrooms!"
Fishing without licenses: Kearney RV Park & Campground allows fishing without state licenses. Karl W. explains, "There is a stocked pond you can fish without a license. It is catch and release only."
Wildlife viewing: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. Jessica C. mentions, "We even saw some deer in the field next to the campground."
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads: Grand Island KOA features level sites that accommodate larger vehicles. Pete M. confirms, "Easy on/off from I-80. Clean spots and level pads. Registration was very easy."
Dump station availability: Main Area Campground offers dump stations but can get congested. Vanessa M. notes, "There's only one RV dump site which made for a huge line in the morning."
Storm shelters: Kearney RV Park & Campground provides safety features important in this weather-prone region. Maggie C. points out, "There are storm shelters available in the bathhouse."
Off-season availability: Some glamping facilities near Kearney operate year-round. Richard states about Main Area Campground: "We arrived here on March 1st and it was very silent, just one other camper. Spots are clean, squirrels running around, tables and firepits."
