Searching for a tent camping spot near Martell? Finding a place to camp in Nebraska with your tent has never been easier. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Martell, Nebraska's most popular destinations.
Guide
4 of us tent camped here over Labor Day weekend and there was only one other camper in the tent site. Bathroom was very clean and the space was well maintained. There’s a 1.1 mile loop trail that skirts the North side of the lake with the trail head right off the tent site. Water was extremely murky so depending on what you’re fishing for it may not be the best.
Overall we loved the campground and will be back!
Scout
We had two problems with our stay here. 1. The tent sites seem to have been an afterthought of the planning they have little to no shade/shade, no privacy and a very busy roadway quite close to them with nothing to separate them. There also is pretty much no flat ground.
Guide
There really is so much to do, from putt putt to iceskating, climbing, the water park, this place has it all. It can be pricey depending on what you're looking for. Cabins are cute and spacious but book up very quickly. Tent camp sites are open more often than not. It is always super busy is the only real downfall.
Scout
I camp here maybe once or twice a year, small area for tent camping that is quite open to other sites - not for campers hoping to get privacy or who can’t handle some late night parties. The area is set back quite a ways from the lake but the lake is still easy to access.
Note that if you are at the swimming beach area and wanting to grill out, be prepared to haul your items from your parked car nearby, not from back at the tent sites. It is less convenient than other campground set ups.
Make sure you come prepared with your pass and camping pass - unlike a majority of other campgrounds, I have noticed the park rangers won’t wait the first hour to let you get set up and squared away.
I stay here to enjoy kayaking, but have also ridden my bike out or just come out to gril and swim with friends. Top lake within a 60 minute drive and for those wanting to stay close to Lincoln.
Legend
Pawnee Lake State Recreation Area was within 30 minutes of Lincoln, NE . Try to make sure all essentials are packed to enjoy your stay without frequent trips to town. This is one of those spots where you can easily park the car and use other means of transportation for your whole visit.(ie, feet, bike, boat, horse, etc.)
There are options to where you camp. RV sites and tent in three different areas. This is not my favorite sort of tent camping, you have to park and walk everything to your site. Some tent sites are located right on the lake which is nice, you can easily park your watercraft nearby. However if it’s busy your neighbors are going to be very nearby. Not much privacy in that case. We however were completely alone when we visited, the crappy weather played a part I’m sure. Shade, which we didn’t need and picnic tables. If you have a hammock you may have an issue with getting it hung, bring alternate means of suspension.
The trails are multi-use so pay attention. We were hiking in the rain so did not see anyone but the trail apples were fresh. Were we hiked it was grassy and mostly level, there was an area where hikers had trails to themselves and a few benches to sit on.
The lake looked nice but I didn’t see anyone on it. I didn’t see any algae signs but the weather may have been a factor too. We overnighted so I didn’t get to completely explore the entire area. It was pretty quiet, some motor noises but they were more of a background noise. Worth an extended stay as long as the lake is open.
Guide
Great tent camping. An oasis in Nebraska. A lot of amenities including swimming pool. Very clean & well appointed bath house.
Guide
This is the best lake in Nebraska for camping! They are tent sites right by the lake. The bathrooms are pretty clean. There’s a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals.
ScoutWe stopped for a night in our camper van. In order to avoid paying the RV fee, we used a tent site. Level parking for the tent sites (which are in a grassy field—no tent pads) was limited, but as we were the only vehicle using those, it was fine. It’s a lovely spot, with lots of water fowl, fireflies, and a frog chorus.
Guide
Louisville Lakes has a decent beach area. Not too many amenities but the bathrooms are clean. The tent sites are close together but usually are not full, RV sites ARE full often. Some tent sites are on the river side and I'd consider very pretty. I like Louisville Lakes atmosphere but it can get pretty busy depending on the summer weekend.
Guide
I have only ever used Tent sites by the river. For the tent sites I wish there were more amenities but the one we stayed at was in a nice location. The river is decently safe and a good place to tube. There were not any other campers but I could see it getting pretty busy on the weekends. Definitely for relaxing on the river but not much else.
Traveler
Enjoy the 4 tent sites. They are spread apart enough that your not on top of each other. Lots of wood to find on the ground
GuideThere were a lot of day use areas and tent sites. It was very beautiful and open. We went in the off season so we had a lot of space to ourselves.
TravelerThe pros! Lakeside tent camping is always fun. Lots of activities, like boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, etc. And its close to town.
The cons! Its close to town, so it can be a bit crowded on nicer weekends.
Its great for overnighters in the middle of the week.
Guide
Change of plans last minute for my little brothers birthday brought us here. At first we couldn't figure out where to set up camp so we asked the camp host who was very friendly. Turns out that you can set up a tent basically anywhere and there's zero cost to tent camp, no fees what so ever!
GuideA short drive from Omaha, two rivers offers generally clean TV and tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds. I camped right by the river. Also a short walk to the outhouse and playground. Fun and quick trip if you’re in the Omaha area. My boys (4&7) loved it.
Traveler
Broadcasting this now because I was not aware when I showed up: there are only two designated tent sites in this entire campground. However, both these sites are clean, beautiful, and located near the trail that takes you to the (honestly very well-presented) adjacent historical park. Out of the two Nebraska state recreation areas I stayed at on my trip through the state, this one is definitely my favorite. I would give it 3.5 stars, but the coin-operated showers knock it down to a 3.
TravelerThe little creek campground in the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is nicely kept and has showers. It is mostly quiet but you can hear the background drone of the Interstate highway. The park has a vehicle pass fee ($8) and a camping fee. I am tent camping and the least expensive site was $25.
Guide
We primary stop by this site for fishing as the lake is regularly stocked. It's great for kayaking or small boats. There is very little shade available at this campground as it is a man-made area so bring the sunscreen. Fires are allowed and pets must be on leash. RV sites and tent camping site are available.
Scout
Tent camping sites. No electrical hookups but you can still camp in campers if you want. Beautiful Campground with lots of trees and shade. Very nice Lake with fishing available. There appears to be an option for canoe rentals available. Boat ramp and dock. Multiple bathroom locations within the campground. Picnic tables near the water. I’ve kayaked the lake! So much fun.
GuideIt 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.
Scout
Went tent camping with 3 kids on a weekday and had the place to ourselves. I really like area 4. 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. Secluded but still pretty close to the bathroom if needed.
GuideWe were able to stay here for 2 nights while visiting the city. My wife and I prefer to stay outside and camp most often. This campground not only has a fun name to repeat to family and friends (or try to remember when writing a review! lol) but has a ton of campsites right on the lake. I think we lucked out and got site 128. It was a tent site and was on the water but a few spots North of a peak fishing area. If you are here site 128 is where it is at! It is a stocked lake but I brought in a 32" northern. Had to let it go per regs so no fish dinner that night! It wasn't a skinny snake either. Like all places you need a permit to fish and better follow the regs. The tent sites were very well maintained. Clean pads and great parking. Overall excellent car camping and fishing spot!
GuideIt’s nice this site is near the river but it’s just your basic campground. you’ll find a pretty flat area with access to the river and basic amenities. I’ve only been to tent sites. I would suggest brining your own wood because whenwe were there, they were out.
LegendThis lake is a Nrd controlled lake that is relatively new, and requires a daily pass or annual pass. I believe it opened 2012. This lake sits just out side of the Northside of Wahoo, and sits off a relatively busy highway. So as you would expect there is some traffic noise. Also with the age of this lake there is no mature trees around the lake. So as you would expect it will make tent camping difficult for some on hot days. There is tent camping, and rvs, as well as a couple little cabins for rent. The fishing is pretty darn good on this lake. There are several online articles that will back that claim up, as well as myself. This is also a good kayaking lake. There is also a trail, or path that goes around this lake for biking, jogging, or just simply walking. The whole area and restrooms are clean, and well maintained. I thing it's a beautiful clean lake that the city of Wahoo should be proud to be next to. I believe this lake will get better with age.
GuideThis is a highly developed state park boasting an aquatic center, indoor gardens, zip lines, horseback riding, cabins and even a hotel on site. Popular for family reunions due to the amount of space and accessibility. There is a wonderful lookout tower that allows people to take in views of the Platte River. Nestled between two major cities in Nebraska, you're never far away from anything you may want to do or see. RV and tent camping is obviously available with limited privacy. This is also a great event venue with multiple large buildings available for reservations. This is not the 'roughing it' kind of camping, but rather a fun experience for the whole family.
GuideMixed reviews for this campsite, but I can say that it’s really good and well worth staying there … first of all, it’s $5 for tent camping, which is the cheapest I’ve ever paid, in the USA, the UK, anywhere! Facilities are basic, but like I say, it’s $5. The train track is close by, but it didn’t bother me. In the tent area there is a large shelter, which is handy if it’s raining. Did I mention it was $5?! Highly recommended
Traveler
Late October tent camping- low around 19f... we seemed to be the only souls in the place.
Our site was a few hundred yards from the lake, and we had a great morning walk.
Downsides:
Cost- $12 for out of state plates and $15 for a site without amenities is steep.
We were also by the dumpster, and they came by to empty it around 7am. Probably a Monday morning problem, but still worth mentioning.
Nestled near Martell, Nebraska, tent camping offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying various outdoor activities. Here are some great options for your next camping adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Martell, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Martell, NE is Area Three Campground with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Martell, NE, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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