93 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Martell, Nebraska include several state recreation areas with a mix of primitive and developed sites. Bluestem State Recreation Area, Stagecoach State Recreation Area, and Wagon Train State Recreation Area provide camping options within 20 miles of Lincoln. Most areas accommodate tent and RV camping, with Camp A Way Campground offering cabin rentals. Yankee Hill Wildlife Management Area provides free dispersed camping with a three-day maximum stay. These camping areas range from lakeside locations with fishing access to more secluded spots in wooded settings.
Primitive tent sites dominate the landscape at many of these recreation areas, with varying levels of amenities. "If you want to avoid camper cities and crowded camp sites within 30 minutes of Lincoln Nebraska, Olive Creek is a good choice," notes one camper about the primitive camping options. Several campgrounds require Nebraska state park permits, available through self-registration at entrance kiosks. Most areas remain open year-round, though winter camping offers quieter experiences with fewer visitors. Water access becomes limited in dry seasons, with reviews mentioning "extremely dry" conditions at Bluestem Lake during summer months. Vault toilets are standard at most primitive sites, while developed campgrounds offer electric hookups and shower facilities.
The state recreation areas near Martell feature lakeside camping popular with anglers and paddlers. Campers report Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area and Camp A Way as the highest-rated developed campgrounds, offering amenities like showers, electric hookups, and sewer connections. Primitive camping areas receive mixed reviews, with Wagon Train described as having "a small area for tent camping that is quite open to other sites - not for campers hoping to get privacy." Wildlife viewing opportunities exist at several locations, particularly Yankee Hill Wildlife Management Area, though a review mentioned "a large marshy, stagnant pond, so bring mosquito repellent." Many camping areas provide fire rings and picnic tables at designated sites, with swimming beaches available at certain lakes during summer months.
"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"
from $35 - $67 / night
Check Availability"Pawnee SRA is a well maintained family friendly SRA North West of Lincoln Nebraska. You’ll find powered and primative sites accommodating RV’s to tents."
"The change machine was either broken or out of change but that seems to be the norm this year at Nebraska parks."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"Check out Blustem if you like to get away from RV heavy camps like I do. You’ll find clean raised toilets, trails, and archery range, boating, fishing and hunting here."
from $15 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Near Lincoln Nebraska, quiet area, reported good fishing. Big gravel parking lot, good for overnights, max 3 days, no fees. some local traffic on weekends. No open fires."
"Conestoga is entirely walk up with no reservations."
"Sites with electric hook ups available, dump station on location. Will definitely stay here again when in the area."
"There are a bunch of campsites close to the lake but if you keep going there is a parking area and a short trail through the woods that leads to an open area right by the lake."
"Great little lake. Fun to explore and hike in the wooded areas, and some of the best camping spots are a little hidden."
from $10 - $25 / night
Check Availability"This SRA about 25 minutes Southeast of Lincoln Nebraska is a favorite go to for me and my boys."
"The walk to the lake is quiet, and the sunsets are beautiful on the water! We will definitely be going back again."
"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."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Stayed here mid April during the week, lake is almost totally dried up. Lots of fun birds! A few bugs but quiet. We didn’t have a fire because it was windy and things are so dry already."
ScoutWe stayed here March - June this year. The staff was always friendly and helpful, and there have been many upgrades done to the park. Would be happy to stay there again if we’re back in the area.
TravelerGreat quiet site, easy access
TravelerThis little spot has 3 electric hookups and a picnic area. Nice shade. Man came by and mowed while I was here; we didn’t talk, but the grass was barely cuttable. Free as advertised (suggested donation). Quiet - parking lot shared with a playground and closed(?) city pool. Easy to get to, follow the blue signs. Did not use restrooms but easily accessible.
GuideThere were more people than I expected there on a Monday evening, but we were able to find a spot with 30A to set up. We didn’t even need blocks, as it was perfectly level. Just pulled into the grass next to the electric and had no issues. Great for a quick overnight, especially for just $10.
TravelerStayed for 2 weeks it was comfortable and quiet every morning was a beautiful sunrise and every night was beautiful.
TravelerFound this spot last minute before the 4th of July, it was pretty much the only availability. It was perfect and I wish I would have found this place a lot sooner. Although it was busy it still was comfortable. And it's a straight shot to my work in Omaha. Is like staying longer.
TravelerWas going to stay here but it was cash only. Seemed ok if it was for a night or 2 no privacy though.
TravelerStopped 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
TravelerTrash everywhere, lots of mosquitoes not any good places to set up a tent.
Camping options near Martell, Nebraska are spread across elevations between 1,300 and 1,500 feet, with most sites situated around small recreation lakes. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for campers. Several campgrounds remain open year-round despite Nebraska's cold winters, with winter camping providing solitude and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Kayaking and fishing: At Conestoga State Recreation Area, the lake offers excellent opportunities for small watercraft. "Fishing for mature fish will not be possible until 2021 according to Nebraska game and parks. I did see plentiful immature fish while kayaking the lake in June of 2019," notes one camper about the Conestoga State Recreation Area.
Hiking trails: While not extensive, several campgrounds offer short walking paths. "There is a mile-long hiking and biking trail is also found in the park," states a visitor about Wagon Train Primitive sites, making it suitable for quick nature walks near your campsite.
Swimming beaches: Many lakes have designated swimming areas during summer months. At Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area, "There is a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals," making it ideal for water activities.
Archery range: Some recreation areas provide target practice opportunities. One reviewer mentions, "I love the whole park - especially the archery range!!" at Lakeview Campground in Pawnee State Recreation Area.
Stargazing conditions: The rural setting creates excellent night sky viewing. "Olive Creek is a good choice. Primative, tent only, and far enough from major roads to reduce man made noises. Enjoy excellent star gazing away from city lights," shares a camper about Olive Creek Lake.
Kid-friendly activities: Camp A Way Campground receives high marks from families. "This place has tons for kids to do. There is a hand-built playground, basketball court, slip n slide, dog park, bounce stuff for kids," states a reviewer who stayed in a tent.
Winter solitude: Off-season camping provides a different experience. A reviewer notes, "Really nice and clean place to relax for a couple days. And it's not busy if you like winter camping like I do," about Bluestem State Recreation Area.
Lakeside sites: Several campgrounds offer prime waterfront camping. "Middle Oak Creek campground has a row of 10-12 electrical spots that are perfect for shore fishing, kayak launch, lakeside views!" explains a camper about Branched Oak Lake.
Permit requirements: Most recreation areas require state park permits available at entrance kiosks. "A pack in primitive campground was also added to the lake and is accessible via a gravel hiking path," notes a visitor to Wagon Train, explaining the site layout.
Noise levels: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. At Yankee hill wildlife management area, "Near Lincoln Nebraska, quiet area, reported good fishing. Big gravel parking lot, good for overnights, max 3 days, no fees. Some local traffic on weekends," providing an accurate picture of what to expect.
Insect conditions: Seasonal bug activity requires preparation. "The WMA has a large marshy, stagnant pond, so bring mosquito repellent," warns a Yankee Hill visitor, highlighting practical considerations for summer camping.
Seasonal water levels: Lake conditions fluctuate throughout the year. "I did see plentiful immature fish while kayaking the lake in June of 2019. The lake was complete dredged out and the parks commission added several silt pond around the lake to capture silt run off," shares a Conestoga visitor about recent lake improvements.
Kid-friendly destinations: Pawnee Dam Site 14 Campground offers recreational opportunities for children. "Stayed here on our way traveling out west. The sites were awesome! Very well-kept grounds and a beautiful park. Lots of wildlife and nice and quiet," shares a visitor about the family-friendly atmosphere.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "This destination was so fun! Sites are shaded and spacious. Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more! Super cute place to stay with family," notes a Camp A Way visitor.
Tent camping with children: Choose sites with easy bathroom access. "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," explains a repeat visitor to Camp A Way about its lasting appeal.
Swimming safety: Lakes have varying conditions for young swimmers. "It has a very clean beach area, a boat and kayak landing area and many children parks," shares a Branched Oak Lake camper about the family-friendly amenities.
Hookup availability: Wagon Train State Recreation Area offers various options for RVs. "Level gravel pads and easy manoeuvering with 29ft TT, 30/15a electric, only 3-4 spots with water hookup which are taken. Water is available to fill tanks," explains a recent visitor about the practical RV accommodations.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management between campgrounds. "If you RV you'll also have access to a dump station," notes a Wagon Train reviewer, though facilities vary widely between recreation areas.
Road conditions: Access roads may present challenges for larger rigs. "The roads around this area are almost all gravel including the main strip through the camp area so you'll have to find your way around to minimize time on gravel," cautions a Wagon Train visitor about navigation concerns.
Generator rules: Understand noise restrictions at each campsite near Martell, Nebraska. "Located just a bit west of Lincoln, NE. Gravel road and sites in the rv section with electric only so fill up with fresh water before setting up. All sites are first come first serve with self check-in," advises a Conestoga camper about arrival preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Martell, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, Martell, NE offers a wide range of camping options, with 93 campgrounds and RV parks near Martell, NE and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Martell, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Martell, NE is Camp A Way Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 32 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Martell, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Martell, NE.
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