Adam C.
Traveler
TravelerConestoga State Recreation Area
Need cash to stay
Was going to stay here but it was cash only. Seemed ok if it was for a night or 2 no privacy though.
Best Campgrounds in Nebraska
Nebraska's camping scene spans from established state parks to scenic lakeside areas. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground offers year-round accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals, while Platte River State Park provides additional options with yurts and glamping facilities. Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area features tent and RV sites with primitive to full-hookup options across multiple campgrounds. The region includes several KOA locations with family-friendly amenities and a range of state recreation areas with waterfront access.
Most Nebraska campgrounds provide electric hookups, drinking water, and fire rings, though availability varies seasonally. "Most sites have laundry and showers, but some parks lock bathrooms in the off-season," noted one camper. Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area and other locations maintain shower facilities and dump stations for RVs. Winter camping remains available at select locations including Camp A Way and West Omaha KOA Holiday, which operate year-round. During summer, temperatures can reach into the 90s°F, making water access particularly valuable. Many state recreation areas require park permits, and developed campgrounds typically charge $20-65 per night depending on hookup level and season.
State park campgrounds receive consistently high ratings for cleanliness and maintenance. Campers particularly appreciate Louisville State Recreation Area and Fort Kearny State Recreation Area for their accessibility and well-maintained grounds. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, visitors value the peaceful settings at lakeside campgrounds like Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area, which offers boat-in camping options. Urban-adjacent options such as Camp A Way Campground in Lincoln provide convenient access to city amenities while maintaining a camping atmosphere. One visitor mentioned that "Maskenthine Lake Recreation Area is one of our favorites with clean restrooms and showers, plus great trails for hiking or mountain biking." Train noise affects some campgrounds near rail lines, particularly those in smaller towns that offer municipal camping areas.
Best Camping Sites in Nebraska (518)
1. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
47 ReviewsAshland, NEWebsite+1 (402) 944-2523$25 - $485 / night
"Nestled between two major cities in Nebraska, you're never far away from anything you may want to do or see. RV and tent camping is obviously available with limited privacy."
"We used to stop here as a midway point when driving to Colorado. We always stayed at the lodge for a night and had a pleasant time exploring the area."
2. Streeter Park Campground
33 ReviewsMarquette, NEWebsite+1 (402) 694-6992"Nice city park trail through the trees for a good morning walk. "
"There's a playground nearby and several walking paths as well as a restroom. these cell service was great and the camp even has free wi-fi provided by the city."
3. Camp A Way Campground
32 ReviewsLincoln, NEWebsite+1 (402) 476-2282$35 - $67 / night
"A fun pass is require and costa about $10 but kids get ice cream, Slushies, water balloons for water wars included with that plus access to trampoline basketball, a nice jump pad, pool, indoor hot tub,"
"Next to highway. You can hear highway but that doesn’t bother me"
4. Platte River State Park Campground
31 ReviewsSouth Bend, NEWebsite+1 (402) 234-2217$35 - $340 / night
"We were passing through Nebraska and opted to stay the night here. The campground is new and will be even nicer when the trees are big enough to provide shade."
"Short walk in but a wagon is provided to help unload equipment. Picnic and fire pit near the teepee."
5. Grand Island KOA
32 ReviewsDoniphan, NEWebsite+1 (402) 886-2249"This campground is situated near interstate 80 and surrounded by cornfields, surprise surprise for Nebraska. Nice people, clean bathrooms and well kept property."
"The location is great and feels tucked away every though it isn't far from the highway. The staff were very helpful. I would definitely recommend!"
6. Fort Kearny State Recreation Area
32 ReviewsKearney, NEWebsite+1 (308) 865-5305$15 - $30 / night
"Nice camp ground with helpful gate attendants, this Nebraska park represents the conundrum of many public campgrounds."
"Very nice stop, close but not too close to I-80. Quiet. Nice lakeside setting."
7. Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground
31 ReviewsOgallala, NEWebsite+1 (308) 284-8800$20 - $60 / night
"I stopped at this campsite on a cross country road trip from NY to NV, as I didn’t know anyone who resided in the great state of Nebraska. Talk about a total hidden gem!!"
"Easy access to campsites, clean shower houses, fun walking trails with great views of the lake! Fun boating and atv activities or beach day with the family!"
8. West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday
29 ReviewsGretna, NEWebsite+1 (402) 332-3010"Very close to the Nebraska crossing outlet mall! 😊"
"The campground itself was fine and very convenient in location to vIsIt famIly."
9. Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area
28 ReviewsMalcolm, NEWebsite+1 (402) 783-3400$25 - $35 / night
"My first time camping in Nebraska. Ive been to several throughout the US. Loved the spot, I was right next to the lake, great swimming access. Downside drinking water access was difficult."
"The area is well known for being the equestrian camping area at one of the finest lakes in Nebraska. Pull through sites with full hookups, equestrian trails, and corals."
10. Louisville State Recreation Area Campground
29 ReviewsLouisville, NEWebsite+1 (402) 234-6855$15 - $35 / night
"A HUGE campground with around 250 total sites, with options ranging from walk-in camping tent-only sites to RV areas. There is a 3 decent-size lakes spread evenly across the grounds."
"I am sorry 😔 but I have nut yet been to any of Nebraska's Camping grounds your's well be the first."
Recent Camping Photos in Nebraska
291 Photos of 518 Nebraska Campgrounds
Dwayne and Heather W.
Inlet Camping Area
Shauna G.
Riverside City Park
Greebly M.
West Wind - Lake Minatare SRA
Shannon G.
Blue Heron Campground
Matthew B.
Lincoln Park
Shannon C.
Berry Bridge Campground
Avery R.
Recharge Lake Campground
Maui F.
Westshore Camping Area
Pat V.
Memphis Lake State Rec Area
Fred S.
Bessey Dispersed, FR203 Circle Rd
Lisa
Peaceful Prairie Campsites - Gering, Nebraska
Recent Reviews in Nebraska
2030 Reviews of 518 Nebraska Campgrounds
- Adam C.Traveler
twin lakes WMA Nebraska
Was good for a night
Stopped here on our way back to Colorado. Set up tents just off the road for sleeping it was good. Some other people were camping in a 5th wheel in the parking area
- Adam C.Traveler
Yankee hill wildlife management area
Used as a dump
Trash everywhere, lots of mosquitoes not any good places to set up a tent.
Lauren M.
GuideCamp A Way Campground
Easy access to downtown
We stayed here to attend a Savannah baseball game at Memorial stadium. We really enjoyed the campground with the amenities. Sites have a good size for grass, plenty of room for vehicle, and shaded in many areas. We used Uber to get to and from the stadium and was a cheaper price than parking fees.
- Lauren M.Guide
Louisville State Recreation Area Campground
Great small town Recreation area
South of Omaha, on the Platte River. 200+ rv and tent sites. $30/night with electrical. Water and dump in the park. 5 lakes for fishing, kayak, hiking trails, rc track, access to the river, convince store, swimming beach, blowup obstacles course, and shower bathroom locations.
- CCurious Compass B.
RangerMulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area
Ok overnight
Easy to get to and set up and a pretty view of the river if you are to the right of the toilet. Two other motor homes look like full timers here, toilet is unusably dirty, boat ramp is pretty active. Someone pulled out at midnight last night others were ready to launch before 7 this morning. I Not a vacation destination but ok for an over night. YouTube @TKCompass
Susan D.GuideStreeter Park Campground
Not bad!
We stayed at Streeter Park for 3 nights. We had a site with water and electric. Aurora was a nice little town. The park itself was very nice. Stay free for 4 days. There is a dump station. I think this place would accommodate most size rigs.
Patrick L.Travelertwin lakes WMA Nebraska
dispersed camping WMA area
Free dispersed camping Nebraska twin lake WMA area ( Wildlife Management Area ) pack in pack out. Gravel Parking lot. Rooftop tent. Stayed overnight.
- LLiz R.Guide
Streeter Park Campground
Pretty little park
This is our second time to stop overnight at this nice little park. Water & electric hookups with a perfectly level gravel pad.
Guide to Nebraska
Camping in Nebraska offers a unique experience with its beautiful landscapes and diverse campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there's something for everyone.
What to do
- Explore the trails: Many campgrounds, like Bessey Recreation Complex Campground, have walking, Jeep, and ATV trails. One camper mentioned, “Have walking, Jeep, ATV trails all over.”
- Fishing: Campgrounds such as Long Pine State Rec Area offer great fishing spots. A review noted, “Good trout fishing from the stream.”
- Enjoy water activities: At Calamus Reservoir, you can rent boats and jet skis. One visitor shared, “Can rent boats and jet skies. Nice swimming and fishing spots.”
What campers like
- Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Victoria Springs State Rec Area said, “The restrooms and showers are very clean and accessible.”
- Spacious sites: Many campgrounds, like Valley View Flat Campground, offer roomy sites. A happy camper remarked, “Nice big sites, you’re not packed in.”
- Natural beauty: Campers love the scenic views and natural surroundings. A visitor at [Long Pine State Rec Area] noted, “There are some fantastic trails to hike here, some great scenery.”
What you should know
- Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby activities. One camper at Bessey Recreation Complex Campground mentioned, “A little noisy during the day with all the ATV traffic.”
- Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. A reviewer at Keller Park State Rec Area pointed out, “This park isn’t manned by the State and it’s self-check-in.”
- Bring your supplies: Some areas are remote, so it’s wise to pack everything you need. A camper at Victoria Springs State Rec Area advised, “Make sure to bring whatever you need with you because there isn’t much in Thedford or Halsey.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Bessey Recreation Complex Campground, which has a pond for fishing. A family shared, “Nice little pond to catch a few fish.”
- Plan for bugs: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in wooded areas. One camper at Victoria Springs State Rec Area noted, “It was very quiet other than the hum of the mosquitos!”
- Bring games and outdoor gear: Campgrounds often have space for activities. A visitor at Long Pine State Rec Area mentioned, “Lots of tall trees surround the camping sites.”
Tips from RVers
- Check site accessibility: Some campgrounds have tricky access for larger RVs. A reviewer at Long Pine State Rec Area said, “They are hard to get an RV into because of the slope and angle of the drives.”
- Look for electric hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with electric options. A camper at Keller Park State Rec Area mentioned, “This campground is in a decent valley. Thus, no signal.”
- Be ready for self-check-in: Some campgrounds operate on a self-check-in basis, so have your plans ready. A visitor at Calamus Reservoir noted, “All sites are electrical only.”
Camping in Nebraska can be a fantastic experience if you know what to expect and plan accordingly. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best tent camping locations in Nebraska?
What are the best tent camping locations in Nebraska?
Nebraska offers excellent tent camping options across the state. Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area is highly recommended with lakeside sites providing great swimming access. COE Harlan County Lake Hunter Cove Park features dedicated tent-only sites on Nebraska's second-largest lake, making it perfect for water enthusiasts. The park offers amenities like showers, toilets, playgrounds, and a boat ramp. For those seeking a more primitive experience, South Outlet Camping provides dispersed tent sites with basic amenities like pit toilets and fire rings in a peaceful setting below the dam. Look for sites with shade trees to help with Nebraska's summer heat, and consider locations near water features for recreation opportunities.
How much does it cost to camp at private campgrounds in Nebraska?
How much does it cost to camp at private campgrounds in Nebraska?
Private campground rates in Nebraska vary based on location, amenities, and season. Grand Island KOA offers full hookup sites at competitive rates with clean facilities and a mix of shaded and non-shaded sites. Lake North provides electric hookups with lakeside sites at reasonable prices, plus access to nearby convenience stores. Generally, private campgrounds in Nebraska range from $25-45 per night for basic sites and $35-60 for full hookup sites. Many offer weekly or monthly discounts for extended stays. KOAs and other chain campgrounds tend to be at the higher end of the price spectrum but provide more amenities like WiFi, laundry facilities, and organized activities.
When is the best season for camping in Nebraska?
When is the best season for camping in Nebraska?
Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the most pleasant camping conditions in Nebraska. Many campgrounds like South Outlet Camping operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-September. Nebraska summers can be quite hot, making electric hookups valuable for RV air conditioning, as noted by campers at Karrer Park. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers but can be rainy, while fall offers cooler temperatures and changing foliage. Summer provides the most reliable weather for water activities on Nebraska's lakes and rivers. Winter camping is limited, with many facilities closing or reducing services. For the best balance of comfortable temperatures and full facility access, aim for the shoulder seasons of late May/early June or September.
Are there any state park campgrounds in Nebraska with full amenities?
Are there any state park campgrounds in Nebraska with full amenities?
Soldier Creek Campground — Fort Robinson State Park offers comprehensive amenities in northwestern Nebraska. This activity-packed park features hookups, shower facilities, and access to numerous recreational opportunities, though note that daily entry permits ($12/day) are required in addition to camping fees. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground near Ashland is another excellent option with full hookups, modern restrooms, showers, and numerous recreational facilities. Many Nebraska state parks feature electric hookups, which are particularly valuable during hot summer months. State park campgrounds typically offer water access, well-maintained facilities, and recreation options like hiking trails, fishing, and boating access points.
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