Eastern Nebraska's prairie landscape transforms into a diverse camping destination around Lincoln, where elevations range from 1,176 to 1,330 feet. This transitional zone between the Great Plains and the Midwest creates a unique camping environment with seasonal temperature swings from below freezing winters to humid 90°F summers. Tent and RV sites aren't the only options—yurt camping near Lincoln, Nebraska has grown increasingly popular at several state recreation areas.
What to do
Trail exploration: 3-mile loops at Platte River State Park Campground offer hiking for all skill levels. A visitor notes, "There are 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."
Fishing access: Year-round opportunities at Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area include shore fishing and boat launches. According to a camper, "Free showers are a great amenity as well. This is one of our favorite places to 'get away' to for fishing, camping, etc. Be warned: VERY BUSY campground as it is super close to a highly populated city."
Water activities: No-wake zones perfect for paddlers. A visitor shared, "There's a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals." Some areas offer paddleboat rentals while others allow swimming depending on the season and water conditions.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Modern shower houses with code-locked doors provide security at many campgrounds. A reviewer at Camp A Way Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms were super clean and have locks with code to keep them safe. The shower head could use replacing, but it was a hot shower, so we appreciate it."
Spacious sites: Premium patio options at certain campgrounds offer extras like swings and dedicated BBQ areas. One camper shared, "We were here years ago when the kids were all a little younger. They had such fond memories that we made it work to swing thru Lincoln again and they had a blast even as teenagers. So many fun activities for the kids and both times we've stayed in the patio sites. Worth it for the swing, bbq and camp fire."
Sunset viewing: Lakeside locations provide prime viewing spots. A visitor to Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area noted, "It's been a few years since we stayed at Lake Wanahoo, but we decided to stay there over our anniversary weekend. The place is still great, and this time of year it was very quiet and peaceful."
What you should know
Highway noise levels can affect tent campers more than RVers at some locations. A visitor explained, "The highway is so close you can see the cars going by. It's extremely loud and constant highway sounds. If you are in a camper or RV, it probably doesn't make much difference, but in a tent, it took away a bit of the magic of camping for us."
Seasonal crowds: Weekday visits recommended during summer months. A camper at Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area advised, "Plan ahead and reserve a spot or go early in the week otherwise you won't get a pad!!!"
Tree coverage varies significantly between newer and established campgrounds. One camper noted, "There is very little shade available at this campground as it is a man-made area so bring the sunscreen." Newer recreation areas typically have younger trees offering minimal shade.
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Pool and splash pads available at select locations for children. A visitor to West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday mentioned, "We were here for a week until he could move into his apartment. It was very clean and well kept. We had full hook-ups and cell service and wifi. They have a large off leash dog run which was so nice."
Playgrounds: Multiple age-appropriate options at many campgrounds. One camper shared, "There is a hand-built playground, basketball court, slip n slide, dog park, bounce stuff for kids. We booked hoping we could use the spa, only to find out when we got here, no kids under 5 can use it."
Unique accommodations: Yurts and tepees provide alternative Lincoln, Nebraska camping experiences. A visitor to Platte River State Park mentioned, "Our family camped in a tepee which was set up on a platform before our arrival. Our kids very much enjoy hiking along and through the rocky creek in the middle of the park that leads to a tower overlooking the Platte River and surrounding farmland."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research pad sizes to match your rig requirements. One RVer at Cottonwood — Two Rivers SRA explained, "There are several camping areas, divided into 'sub sections', my favorite place is the cottonwood division (not water hookups but electricity ones work just fine! Water hook ups are in a different subdivision, but available)."
Dump station locations sometimes require driving to different sections. A camper noted, "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. These were just installed a couple years ago. They are nice and level, but just add a bit of driving to get to them."
Reservation windows: Book 3-6 months ahead for premium sites during peak season. According to one visitor, "It is popular for tent campers and RV campers, so plan ahead if you want to book online. Otherwise, you'll have to take your chances and stake your claim with a vehicle and a tent."
