Located between Omaha and Lincoln, camping near Louisville, Nebraska offers visitors access to the Platte River valley and several recreational lakes. The area sits at approximately 1,080 feet elevation with terrain characterized by rolling hills, farmland, and riparian woodlands. Temperatures can reach above 90°F in summer months with winter lows frequently dropping below freezing, making spring and fall popular camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking trails and water features: Platte River State Park features varied terrain with hiking opportunities for all skill levels. "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees! On top of the excellent camping offered, they have a wealth of amazing hiking/biking trails that traverse through some amazing scenery," writes Jared J. about Platte River State Park Campground.
Water activities: Many campgrounds offer various water recreation options. "The tent sites were decently spaced. But, our site was right by a train track. There were trains going by all night long," notes Jordan H. about Louisville State Recreation Area Campground. Despite this drawback, the recreation area provides multiple water activities.
Children's activities: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers numerous family-oriented attractions. "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids including paddleboating, a wave pool, horse riding, ziplining, and playgrounds," according to Jennifer M. at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground.
What campers like
Lake access and fishing: Memphis Lake State Recreation Area provides prime lakeside camping opportunities. "It is a nice spot a bit off of the main roads. Many of the tent sites allow you to camp right next to the lake. It's generally pretty quiet and people respect the 10 pm quiet hours rule. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," explains David L. about Memphis Lake State Rec Area.
Quieter alternatives: For those seeking less crowded options than the major state parks, smaller campgrounds provide alternatives. "Very clean tent sights by the Platte River. Nearby train-tracks were a bit noisy though," mentions Andrew W. about Louisville State Recreation Area.
Variety of camping options: Some of the best places to camp near Louisville, Nebraska offer multiple accommodation types. "Four stars instead of five because we prefer camping with our own equipment which isn't a feature at this park. Our family camped in a tepee which was set up on a platform before our arrival," shares Sarah H. about Platte River State Park.
What you should know
Train noise: Many campgrounds in the area experience significant train noise. "We liked everything about this area but the train tracks! Be selective on where you pitch the tent. It can get loud.... River, ponds, swimming area, playground, nearby hiking," advises Chrisne E. about Louisville State Recreation Area.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds remain open year-round but facilities may be limited in winter. "We hiked here one morning and there weren't very defined trails, but the park is small enough where you wont get last. Nice views of the river. It was fun to wander around the trails for a few hours, but that's about all you can get out of it," notes Zak L. from Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "They have a couple of different kinds of cabins. There's a bunch of trails! The park in general is beautiful," shares Jordan H. about Platte River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and splash parks: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "This place has it all....but books up months in advance and the crowds can get a bit annoying! Hiking trails, frisbee golf, horseback riding, driving range, fishing, tennis courts, river views, cabins!" reports Charlie B. about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
Swimming options: Various swimming facilities are available throughout the region. "This lake has great fishing and has peace, and quiet. The lake is a no wake zone, so kayaks, and canoes are great. The campsites have plenty of shade, and a few electrical hook ups," shares Tony B. about Weeping Water.
Cabin camping alternatives: For families not interested in tent camping, cabin options exist. "Brand new clean quiet campground walking distance from downtown. Site wasn't level front to back and the host offered to move us. We told her it was ok and after we step up she came back to check again," reports Jen S. about Ashland RV Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds. "We always stop here when we're traveling on I-80. It's the perfect distance for us to overnight before moving on. Clean campground, showers/bathroom. Courteous employees. Lots of activities for the kids," shares Cynthia K. about West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday.
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't available at all campgrounds. "Don't expect peace & quiet. This place is sandwiched in between I-80 and the I-80 Speedway. Even w/ full hookups it's a bit overpriced. Overnight stay for us, will not be back," warns Annaliese M. about Pine Grove RV Park.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds in the Louisville area provide dump stations. "First come, first serve campground city park. Large lake, walking trail. Seems that some site are 'reserved' by placing the picnic table on the concrete pad. We were able to find 1 open space," notes Barbara P. about Weeping Water.
