Glamping near Lewellen, Nebraska attracts visitors with its proximity to Lake McConaughy, Nebraska's largest reservoir with over 100 miles of shoreline. The region sits at approximately 3,300 feet elevation in western Nebraska's high plains, experiencing hot summers and cold winters. Sandy beaches and mature cottonwood trees characterize many glamping sites, where overnight temperatures can drop significantly even during summer months.
What to do
Explore Ash Hollow State Historical Park: Located just across the river from Oregon Trail RV Campground, this historical site offers hiking trails through unique geological formations. "We spent several days learning about the history, walking part of the Oregon Trail, and even Learned that the Mormon Trail came through this camp site," notes one camper who visited Oregon Trail RV Campground.
Paddle boarding on Lake McConaughy: The reservoir offers excellent conditions for water sports during summer months. Water temperatures reach the mid-70s in July and August, ideal for extended paddling sessions. A visitor to Lakeview mentioned: "The lake is huge and makes for a great place to paddle board. We had such a good time and experienced great help from the park rangers."
Fishing at Lake McConaughy: The reservoir contains walleye, white bass, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish. "We had a blast fishing ogala. Cool town and so many fish," reported one Lakeview visitor. Fishing permits cost $8 for a one-day resident license and $16 for non-residents.
What campers like
White sandy beaches: Unlike typical Midwest camping, Lake McConaughy features sand beaches reminiscent of coastal destinations. A camper at Little Thunder Campground noted: "Beautiful white sandy beaches close by. In Lake McConaughy RA you can camp anywhere within the state park for $12, it doesn't have to be an actual site! So lots of people camped on the beach along the water."
Stargazing opportunities: The rural location provides minimal light pollution for exceptional night sky viewing. "Towards midnight we saw some amazing stars that the pictures I included don't do justice," shared a Little Thunder Campground visitor who stayed in July.
Convenient boat access: Many glamping locations offer direct water access. A Lakeview visitor commented: "Van's Lakeview is the best for multiple reasons. The campground is mostly dirt, not a ton of grass but the lake access is unbeatable. Facilities are clean and well appointed, the general store has all you need including gas, and the huge truck tugs for boat launching is the most convenient thing ever."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Lake McConaughy glamping sites experience significant seasonal variations. Summer brings crowds and heat, while spring and fall offer more solitude. "Cold evening, pulled in late, campground was empty, sandy spot, bathroom at boat launch was open in the morning," noted an April visitor to Little Thunder Campground.
Limited shade at some locations: Many glamping areas have minimal tree cover. "Not a lot of shade in the center of the loop. Most of the Lakefront sites do," observed one Little Thunder visitor. Plan accordingly with portable shade structures during summer months.
Train noise at some campgrounds: Creekside RV Park and Oregon Trail RV Campground experience occasional train noise. One Oregon Trail RV Campground visitor mentioned: "The only negative is that the campground is right next to train tracks, and trains travel past it often. The last one I heard before I fell asleep was around 11:00 pm. I woke up at 6:00 and counted three trains by 7:30."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some glamping locations include dedicated play areas. Little Thunder Campground features a "great playground" according to visitors, while Oregon Trail RV Campground offers open spaces for children to play.
Pet-friendly options: Many glamping sites welcome pets with proper supervision. A visitor to Oregon Trail RV Campground shared: "This park was exactly what we needed—easy to find, impeccably maintained, and truly welcoming to both us and our pets. The RV spaces were clean and spacious, with plenty of room for our dogs to enjoy themselves."
Town amenities within reach: McGreer Camper Park and nearby glamping locations offer convenient access to supplies. "The lounge area, laundry room and bathroom are kept clean. The owner is wonderful. She even gave me some eggs for my breakfast and cucumbers as a snack for the road," noted one McGreer visitor.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: Oregon Trail RV Campground provides full hookup sites with specific placement considerations. "Since the sewer is on the north side of each site, you may have to run your hose under the camper or use the sewer hookup in the lot next to you, if no one is parked there," advised one RVer.
Level site availability: Many glamping areas feature relatively level sites. At Lone Eagle Canyon Campground, RVers find sites with electrical hookups, water, and shower access. The campground provides RV, tent and cabin options along with a small store and meals.
Cash payment preparation: Several glamping locations prefer or require cash payment. A visitor to Creekside RV Park noted: "Cash only and no advance reservations, but plenty of spots were left when we were there." Similarly, McGreer Camper Park offers a "discount for cash," according to one reviewer.
