Glamping close to La Vista, Nebraska offers travelers a mix of prairie-style camping and water recreation. The region sits at the eastern edge of the Great Plains with elevations ranging from 1,086 to 1,200 feet. Summers reach average highs in the upper 80s with humidity levels often exceeding 70%, creating conditions where water-based activities become popular for cooling off. Campgrounds in this area feature varying levels of tree coverage and wind protection, with eastern locations offering more wooded sites.
What to do
Hike the Loess Hills: Visit Hitchcock County Nature Center for trails through rare geological formations. "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below," notes Pat V. The center includes an archery range, hiking trails, and a handicap-accessible boardwalk trail.
Kayak and paddle: Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area provides water recreation options without motorboat congestion. "Great fishing and kayaking lake! Bike path goes all the way around the lake," mentions A.H. The site requires a specific NRD permit rather than the standard state park permit.
Fishing opportunities: Several stocked lakes offer productive fishing without traveling far from La Vista. "The lake is right there, with a nice bike path that comes all the way around," states Alana R. about Lake Cunningham Campground. The newly renovated lake has reopened after zebra mussel mitigation with improved fishing access.
Horseback riding: Some parks offer guided trail rides suitable for beginners. "There is a r.v. park, cabins, and a newer tent area. There is also horseback riding," explains Tony B. about nearby recreation options. Rides typically cost $25-35 per person and require advance booking during peak season.
What campers like
Concrete pads at premium sites: Lake Cunningham Campground has upgraded its facilities with level, solid platforms. "The sites have concrete pads with power," confirms Alana R. These improved sites provide stability for larger camping units and better drainage during wet conditions.
Hawk watching opportunities: Fall migration brings impressive raptor viewing. "When your done with your hiking, climb up to the top of the towering platform and bring your binoculars to checkout the visiting hawks and occasional eagle," suggests Matt S. about Hitchcock County Nature Center. The observation tower provides unobstructed views across the Missouri River valley.
Off-grid backcountry options: For those seeking solitude, some parks maintain hike-in sites. "The backcountry campsite have pads with pea gravel for tents and fire rings. Nice and quiet," explains Allison J. These sites typically require carrying gear 1-3 miles from parking areas.
Riverfront camping: Platte River State Park Campground offers scenic water views and access. "You can hike the many hiking trails to the mini waterfall, or Platte river. They have paddle boat and Kayak rentals," explains Tony B. The park maintains multiple camping areas with varying levels of development and proximity to water.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most premium glamping sites book months in advance. "We always stop here when we're traveling on I-80. It's the perfect distance for us to overnight before moving on... We've stopped on a couple of holidays & a reservation is a must! They are very busy!" advises Cynthia K. about West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant storms, particularly in spring and summer. "Upon arriving I asked about the weather, which I was watching closely at the radar... I and others asked a few staff members where should we take cover in case it hits us," reports Eileen H. Campers should monitor forecasts and identify shelter locations upon arrival.
Permit differences: Some recreation areas require specific permits. "A special permit is required to camp there. That is a bit of a bummer because you used to not need that," explains A.H. about Lake Wanahoo. Always verify permit requirements before arrival as they change seasonally.
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds sit near major transportation routes. "Close (but not too close) to I-80, we stayed here as a way point cruising across Wyoming/Nebraska/Iowa," notes Jessica about Pine Grove RV Park. Sites further from road corridors offer significantly reduced noise levels.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday provides extensive kid-friendly amenities. "There is a play ground for the kids that's wonderful!" reports Megan E. The campground also features organized activities during summer weekends.
Swimming options: Identify parks with designated swimming areas. "This site is great for any size family. The range of different camping options and amenities is incredible," notes Sandra O. Many locations offer splash pads or beach access as alternatives to pool swimming.
Educational programs: Nature centers frequently host kid-friendly learning events. "Enjoy the 4 tent sites. They are spread apart enough that your not on top of each other," explains Erik M. about Platte River State Park Campground, which maintains educational programming throughout summer.
Accommodation variety: Glamping options near La Vista include structures beyond standard tents. "They have a couple of different kinds of cabins. There's a bunch of trails! The park in general is beautiful," shares Jordan H. Families can choose from tent sites, cabins, or canvas structures based on comfort preferences.
Tips from RVers
Site width considerations: Some parks have narrow sites that challenge larger rigs. "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," cautions Stacy M. RVers should specify total length and slide-out requirements when booking.
Water and dump station locations: Access points for water and waste disposal aren't always conveniently located. "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," advises Pat V. about Lake Wanahoo. Rigs should arrive with full water tanks at locations without convenient hookups.
Wind exposure awareness: Newer campgrounds lack mature trees for windbreaks. "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. RVers should secure awnings and light items during windy conditions.
