Horse campgrounds near La Vista, Nebraska are limited in the immediate area, with most equestrian facilities requiring travel outside the city limits. The region sits at approximately 1,150 feet above sea level in the rolling hills of eastern Nebraska, where the terrain transitions from the Missouri River Valley to prairie uplands. Temperatures range from summer highs around 90°F to winter lows below freezing, creating seasonal camping considerations.
What to do
Trail riding along the Platte River: At Louisville State Recreation Area, campers can access trails that follow the Platte River. "I've been coming here since I was very little. Whether I was riding a bike around the paved roads, fishing in one of the sandpit lakes they have to offer, or the river... I have always felt at home at this park," notes Tony B. The park offers diverse outdoor activities beyond horseback riding.
Water recreation options: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park provides multiple water-based activities for visitors. "This place has it all....paddleboating, a wave pool, horseback riding, ziplining, and playgrounds. Modern restrooms with showers and power are available," shares Jennifer M. The wave pool is particularly popular during summer months.
Archery and shooting sports: For those interested in target sports, Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area offers facilities. "We enjoyed the archery range and took plenty of walks," reports Pat V. The recreation area provides dedicated spaces for these activities away from camping areas.
What campers like
Multiple fishing environments: Many campgrounds near La Vista feature both lake and river fishing access. At Two Rivers SRA, visitors appreciate the variety. "Take your pick, river or lakeside. Some areas are more modern than others but all are nice," explains Angie P. The park includes dedicated fishing lakes including a trout lake.
Spacious camping layouts: Recent improvements at Lake Cunningham Campground have enhanced the camping experience. "Love the new East lots. Full access with concrete pad. Tons of room between spots," notes Connor S. This spacing contrasts with more crowded options in the region.
Natural hiking trails: Platte River State Park offers exceptional hiking options. "On top of the excellent camping offered, they have a wealth of amazing hiking/biking trails that traverse through some amazing scenery. Just like the camping, you can pick between the less intensive paved walkways or you can walk along the hilly bluffs that contour the Platte River," describes Jared J.
What you should know
Train noise disruption: Many campgrounds in the area experience significant train noise. At Oak Grove Campground, a camper warns, "This has the capability to be a great little state park, but and a huge one at that is at night the trains go by about every 17 minutes. The tracks run right get along the park."
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months. "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids," explains Jennifer M. about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Additional permit costs: Nebraska state parks require entrance permits for vehicles. "You also have to pay for the state park fees which is absurd!" notes Timothy about Two Rivers SRA. Non-Nebraska residents pay higher fees for these permits, adding to overall trip costs.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: For families seeking more comfortable accommodations, consider unique options. "If you enjoy some extra comforts, rent one of the train cabooses which feature a small kitchen, bathroom, AC and beds with mattresses. Our kids loved the lofted full sized bed," recommends Carla D. about the Union Pacific Cabooses at Two Rivers SRA.
Water parks and splash areas: Several parks offer water features designed specifically for children. "This lake is one of the very few in Omaha that offers camping. They also offered rental boats for the lake, a really nice walking trail, and fishing," shares Tony B. about Lake Cunningham.
Playground access: Most campgrounds include playground facilities, though quality varies. "There is an old playground by a vault toilet," notes Shannon G. about Oak Grove Campground, highlighting that facilities may be dated at some locations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking at Louisville State Recreation Area, consider the train track proximity. "The harsh part of being located here is if you are looking for any kind of spot that accommodates a flat plot, like sites 206-236, you are butted up against the train tracks and that train is LOUD!" advises Daniel B.
Utility connections: RV campers should verify hookup availability before arrival. "The sites have concrete pads with power, but no water or sewer. There is a fill station on the way in. You can pay $1 for a hot shower in the comfort station, which is very clean," explains Alana R. about Lake Cunningham Campground.
Campground layout considerations: At Branched Oak Lake, the design affects privacy and views. "The camp sites are forked out like the cul-de-sac properties, each facing the road and having a large portion of the lake or greens to themselves on the back," describes Patheeka, providing useful insight into the campground layout for RV positioning.
