2 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Indian Cave State Park near Nemaha, Nebraska offers specialized equestrian camping areas with sites designated for visitors traveling with horses. The park spans over 3,000 acres along the Missouri River, providing multiple trail options for riders. Numerous hiking paths throughout the park accommodate horseback riding, with approximately 20 miles of trails available for exploration. The equestrian camping area features specific accommodations for horses and their owners. Trails range from easy to challenging terrain, with steep climbs leading to scenic overlooks of the Missouri River valley.
The trail system connects riders to various park attractions including river views, historic sites, and natural features. Horseback riders can access the trail network directly from the equestrian camping area. The park maintains clean facilities despite its remote location, with campsites situated to provide adequate space for horse trailers. Fall visits are particularly recommended for equestrians due to the changing colors of the oak woodlands that characterize this unique Nebraska landscape. Water access points are available throughout the park for horses. When planning a visit, equestrians should note that the nearest services and supplies are approximately 15-20 minutes from the park, requiring visitors to bring necessary horse care items and equipment.
"This is unlike any other campground in Nebraska. There are plenty of camping sites around the park no matter your style, even spots for horses! I prefer the hike in spots myself."
"This is a nice little area with some hiking and horse trails. There’s a trail that’s really steep but the view from the top of the river and the valley is worth it."
from $25 - $30 / night
"The tent sites have an area with showers and in door plumbing but there are also many tent sites speckled around the park, some have vault toliets and others are primitive."
"The trails are great. Beautiful scenery and our camp site was spacious. I wish the horse trail rides weren’t closed for the year and the main trail."
from $30 / night
"Not many amenities but the bathrooms are clean and the trails are fantastic. The view is great from the side bluff train. Close to Nebraska city. Tent sites are not too close together."
"The hiking trails are not for bikes, and they have several different levels or skills levels. The look out was pretty cool as well. We will return, and do some more hiking."
Available this weekend
from $12 - $110 / night
"Pleasant quiet environment other then nearby train. Location has 2 other RV campgrounds around the corner . It's a city park next to the expo center nice and clean . Pull in next to any hook up."
"The entrance was a little bit confusing. There is a pay box at the edge of the parking box. The bathrooms were locked, but being self contained, we wouldn't have used them."
from $10 / night
"A Missouri conservation area, a mile off the road. a gravel road gives you access to many multi use trails. see map attached. there were 5 or so nice camping spots with picnic tables and fire rings along"
"It was a little close to the highway so got a little highway noise, but not bad. No trains😊 Only one other camper so plenty of room.
Pit toilet, no water."
"Nice sites close to the lake with electricity water and wifi."
"Kids absolutely love it, easy access to the water, quiet, and very nice!!"
GuideA nice little area to park our RV for the night as we were passing through. Just put your $10 in the donation box. Yes, there is a train that blows its whistle, but it doesn’t come through too often.
ScoutTen dollars a night for a electrical hookup, green grass and peace of mind. Perfect, just pull in, find a vacant pedestal and make yourself at home. 510 Midland Street
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.
GuideCalled MO Conservation Dept and verified it was ok to camp here. Woman told me eventually they plan on permitting, but as long as there aren’t >10 people, it’s fine. Arrived around 5 and drove past first few sites to minimize backing in. Big open graveled area where pit toilet is has a spot that is level and easy to maneuver with a 13’ trailer (or even much bigger). Clean site though bordering vegetation looks like poison oak. Can hear road noise but also birdsong. Two cars have passed by but no one else visible setting up camp at this point. Great for an overnight so far!
TravelerA Missouri conservation area, a mile off the road. a gravel road gives you access to many multi use trails. see map attached. there were 5 or so nice camping spots with picnic tables and fire rings along the tree line soon after entering, but no gravel off road parking areas. signs said we must stay on gravel, so we couldn't camp there with our trailer without blocking the road. we found a handicapped site by the the one vault toilet. and one campsite at the end of the road. Both were not available. we set up in the parking area near the vault toilet, stayed hooked up to our truck. the outhouse was clean and had paper, but could use a new seat. it was a pretty area with lots of trees just changing into Fall colors. We didnt hike on the trails due to hunters present. it worked well as a quick stop over
RangerGas up when you can! This beautiful state park is in the middle of the Nebraskan Ozarks, and is seriously one of the most beautiful state parks in the Midwest. Clean, spacious sites...mostly level. Bring your levellers because it's very, very hilly. I didn't use the shower or restrooms, but the surrounding facilities were clean and well kept. Park staff were helpful and kind. There is a small gift shop at the ranger's station.
Great hiking just walking through the campground...very hilly...great workout! Would stay here again in a heartbeat.
GuideStayed at sites 46 and 47, electric no water or waste. Water was nearby as was a bathhouse. It is nice and quiet, good size sites. Downside is cost, runs about $45 a night with the car fee.
RangerThis is a very nice and clean spot to camp for a bit. They have great hiking and bike trails. If you go make sure you hike over to the sunset viewpoint that looks out to the West.
ScoutIt was a little close to the highway so got a little highway noise, but not bad. No trains😊
Only one other camper so plenty of room.
Pit toilet, no water.
Equestrian camping near Nemaha, Nebraska centers around the limestone bluffs and oak-hickory forests that characterize the Missouri River Valley. This region experiences distinct seasonal changes with fall temperatures averaging 45-65°F and summer highs reaching 85-95°F. Trail conditions vary significantly between seasons, with spring often bringing muddy paths that require careful navigation by horseback riders.
Trail exploration beyond the park: Horseback riders visiting the area can access additional trails at Waubonsie State Park Campground just across the Missouri River in Iowa. "The trails are beautiful and quiet, with several scenic overlooks. Bikes are not allowed on trails," notes Jennifer M. The park offers varied terrain with "different levels or skills levels" according to Tony B.
Mushroom hunting expeditions: Spring visitors can participate in organized foraging events at Mozingo Lake County RV Park, about an hour's drive south. Shauna G. mentions "the Expo in the spring with Morel Mushroom hunting contest" as an event not to miss for outdoor enthusiasts.
Wildlife observation: The conservation areas around Nemaha provide excellent bird watching opportunities. "There are lots of things you can do while here, besides camping: fishing, birding, hiking & horseback riding," explains Linette G. about nearby Honey Creek Conservation Area, which offers free camping options with river access.
Fall foliage views: The oak woodlands transform dramatically in autumn, creating picturesque riding conditions. "I believe it and hope to make it back some day," shares James D. about the changing colors at Hackberry Hollow Campground, adding "fall is the best time because of the changes in the trees."
River overlooks: Multiple trails lead to elevated viewpoints above the Missouri River. At Waubonsie State Park, "the look out was pretty cool as well," according to Tony B., who recommends taking "one of the more scenic trails" that goes "over the top of some of those beautiful Loess Hills."
Uncrowded weekday camping: Mid-week visits offer a more solitary experience. Sayler O. reports that at Honey Creek Conservation Area, "we just stayed for 1 night but did not see another person the entire time we were there," describing it as "quiet and secluded."
Water access varies: Plan your horse's water needs carefully. "Bring your own water if you don't want to search for hydrants," advises Rylan B. about Hackberry Hollow Campground. Water availability can be inconsistent across camping areas.
Trail difficulty levels: Some routes involve steep terrain that may challenge inexperienced riders. Meaghan S. notes, "we went up loop 10 and down loop 9. It was a steep climb to the top but had great overlook views."
Site reservation requirements: During peak seasons, securing campsites in advance is crucial. At Syracuse City, Lynn J. found "we were the only campers in the campground" in October, but summer weekends fill quickly throughout the region.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. Michelle V. notes that Hackberry Hollow offers "clean bathrooms, running water and showers," adding "we had a great time and enjoyed being surrounded by all the lovely trees."
Halloween festivities: Families visiting in October can experience special seasonal events. Shannon G. shares: "A few years back we were told to come experience Halloween at Indian Cave State Park. I was skeptical, but once we went we were hooked and keep coming year after year."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. Michael M. warns, "A giant raccoon tried to get into my cooler 10 minutes after we turned out our lights for the night. Lookout for ticks," though he still found it "a fun place to camp out and hike around."
Electrical hookup options: Nodaway Valley County Park provides convenient utilities for horse trailers with living quarters. Kimberly W. mentions "each one had its own water and electric. There are 11 on what we call the upper circle and 4 on the lower circle."
Leveling considerations: Most equestrian sites require minimal leveling equipment. Tim D. notes at Syracuse City, "leveling was a breeze. The whole area is very flat."
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste management. Kimberly W. explains that at Nodaway Valley, "There is a dump station centrally located that you can easily pull up to on your way out," which is convenient for RVers with horse trailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Nemaha, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Nemaha, NE is Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 25 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Nemaha, NE?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near Nemaha, NE, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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