Cabin options near Martell, Nebraska range from rustic accommodations to modern lodging with full amenities. Located in the eastern region of Nebraska where the terrain transitions from plains to subtle rolling hills, this area experiences distinct seasonal changes with hot summers and cold winters. Fall camping offers colorful foliage displays while spring brings moderate temperatures with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Two Rivers State Recreation Area features multiple lakes and river access points for anglers. According to visitor Tony B., "I have always had a fun time here. Whether I was riding a bike around the paved roads. Fishing in one of the sandpit lakes they have to offer, or the river."
Water recreation: Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area offers a no-wake lake perfect for kayaking and small watercraft. A visitor notes, "Great fishing and kayaking lake! Bike path goes all the way around the lake. Sites are large and spaced out. I prefer the ones along the water but you have to book early to get one."
Hiking trails: Platte River State Park Campground maintains a network of trails suitable for various skill levels. Jared J. shared, "They have 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."
Family activities: Campgrounds near Martell provide structured recreation for kids and adults. A Camp A Way visitor reports, "This destination was so fun! Sites are shaded and spacious. Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more! Super cute place to stay with family."
What campers like
Site features: Campers appreciate the thoughtful amenities at many cabin sites. At Double Nickel Campground, Paula K. noted, "It looked like all the sites were pull through's, had fire pit (saw her delivering wood), never saw this before (each site has a porch swing)."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities rank high in camper reviews. Jan S. commented about Camp A Way Campground, "Very clean. Helpful friendly staff. Huge, clean dog run shaded with locust trees. Best dog run we have seen this trip... Clean laundry facilities. They also have large washer and dryer if you need to do bed covers."
Unique accommodations: Several campgrounds offer distinctive lodging options beyond standard cabins. At Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground, visitors can access diverse accommodations including cabins. One visitor commented, "This place has it all... Hiking trails, frisbee golf, horseback riding, driving range, fishing, tennis courts, river views, cabins!"
Waterfront sites: Memphis Lake State Recreation Area allows campers to stay close to the water. David L. shared, "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."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Nebraska camping conditions vary dramatically by season. Maricris C. noted at Eugene T. Mahoney, "This is a really nice state park. There are plenty to do. My son and I camped for one night. We went paddle boating, swimming, and horse back riding."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. About West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday, Cynthia K. advised, "We always stop here when we're traveling on I-80. It's the perfect distance for us to overnight before moving on... We've stopped on a couple of holidays & a reservation is a must! They are very busy!"
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. At Memphis Lake State Recreation Area, Pat V. mentioned, "The one big downfall is the number of trailers there running their generators. That did get annoying at night, but overall we will be back!"
Seasonal availability: Some facilities restrict certain camping options based on time of year. Molly M. noted about Platte River State Park, "We go every year, tents not allowed yet. Plenty of cabins, water park and gun range. Horse rides available."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. About Camp A Way Campground, Heather A. shared, "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."
Swimming options: Water features provide summer recreation for families. At Cottonwood Campground, Morgan W. commented, "Two rivers is my favorite Nebraska hidden gem! The state Rec Park is by both the Elkhorn and Platte rivers, thus it's name, Two Rivers... A swimming beach for kids, and river access when the river is low enough."
Caboose cabins: Unique lodging appeals to families with children. Rick J. noted, "We usually tent camp but have also stayed in the cabooses a couple times, the kids really enjoy that. If your looking to get away from people this is probably not the place for you because during the summer it is busy even during the week."
Shaded sites: For summer camping with children, look for tree cover. Shannon G. advised about West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday, "This campground had amazing staff, was clean, and had great amenities. The sites are very small however, and to do anything besides swim and play on the playground you need to drive."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose RV sites carefully based on your specific needs. For Double Nickel Campground, MickandKarla W. explained, "The utilities were at the center of the long gravel pad. Water pressure was okay at around 40 psi. We got 2 bars on Verizon."
Campground layout: Understanding the configuration helps with planning. About Goldenrod Campground, Shannon G. noted, "Goldenrod is one of 6 campgrounds at Twin Rivers State Park. Half of this campground has electric and half has none. It is right next to lake 4 with some beach access."
Weather preparedness: Nebraska can experience extreme weather events. Wendy H. shared about Double Nickel, "The campground has its own tornado siren plus an underground tornado shelter."
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds trade convenience for noise. Eric P. advised, "Really nice staff. Bathhouse is nice and clean. There are all sorts of games... Nice pool. Only issue: road noise. It's just off the expressway."
