Equestrian camping options near Omaha, Nebraska provide recreational opportunities across several state parks and recreation areas within a 45-mile radius. The area features mostly flat terrain with occasional rolling hills, situated along the Platte River valley at approximately 1,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with occasional rainfall that can affect trail conditions.
What to Do
Paddle sports access: Lake Cunningham Campground offers multiple water recreation options for campers looking beyond horseback activities. "The lake itself is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing! People do swim near the beach area but it is technically not allowed. I like the beach for letting my dog swim!" explains Kwin K. The park also provides equipment for visitors without their own gear: "If you want to adventure but don't have your own gear there is a cute little paddle board shop that rents boards and kayaks by the hour."
Archery and shooting: Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area features specialized recreational facilities beyond standard camping amenities. According to Pat V., "We enjoyed the archery range and took plenty of walks." The recreation area provides designated areas for target practice, making it an alternative activity when trails are too wet for horses or during rest days.
Hiking trails exploration: Platte River State Park offers extensive hiking opportunities when not riding. As Jared J. notes, "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." The varied terrain provides good cross-training opportunities for riders.
What Campers Like
Lakeside camping spots: Louisville State Recreation Area provides waterfront campsites that complement equestrian facilities. One camper, Chrisne E., advises to "be selective on where you pitch the tent" but appreciates the natural setting with "river, ponds, swimming area, playground, nearby hiking." This offers additional recreation when not riding.
Concrete camping pads: The newly developed sections at Lake Cunningham offer superior stability for horse trailers and RVs. Connor S. reports, "Love the new East lots. Full access with concrete pad. Tons of room between spots." Another camper, James H., confirms the quality: "Slips are nicely spaced apart from each other. The area we booked is very new, and FHU [full hookup]."
Well-spaced campsites: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park provides varied camping options for those traveling with horses. A camper mentions, "A lot of activities for kids" and another notes it's a "very shaded" campground, which can be important during summer months when temperatures rise into the 90s.
What You Should Know
Limited camping at some facilities: Pony Creek Park offers minimal camping options despite scenic surroundings. Tony B. explains, "This camp area is not much at all. The spaces are really small, and not really one view of the lake. This place would probably work for an overnight stay, but not a destination." For equestrian campers, this suggests planning for minimal amenities.
Reservation requirements: Due to popularity, securing spots at Branched Oak Lake requires planning. As Jen K. advises, "Be warned: VERY BUSY campground as it is super close to a highly populated city. Plan ahead and reserve a spot or go early in the week otherwise you won't get a pad!!!" This applies especially to equestrian sites, which are typically more limited.
Train noise concerns: Campers at Louisville State Recreation Area consistently mention railroad disruptions. Bill M. simply states "Train noise all night," while Justin R. elaborates, "At night the trains go by about every 17 minutes. The tracks run right along the park." Noise-sensitive horses may be stressed by these frequent disturbances.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water recreation options: Fawn Meadows Campground at Two Rivers State Recreation Area offers family-friendly water activities. Rick J. shares, "This is a great campground for camping and fishing with kids. The fishing is easy in all the lakes and they have a pay fishing trout lake that nearly guarantees success. Our kid and her friends love the swimming beach."
Multiple playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children needing breaks from equestrian activities. Shannon G. notes about Oak Grove Campground, "There is an old playground by a vault toilet," while Tony B. mentions Two Rivers SRA having "tent, and RV camping either off the lakes or river" with recreational opportunities where children can "ride a bike around the paved roads."
Educational opportunities: Families can combine equestrian camping with learning experiences. Ashley Y. recommends, "Be sure to check out Arbor Day farms and Lied Lodge in Nebraska city only a short drive away. Learn the history of Morton salt and Arbor day itself amazing grounds to wander great hands-on stuff for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Oak Grove Campground at Two Rivers State Recreation Area offers advantages for RVers with horse trailers. Shannon G. notes it "is one of the smaller campgrounds and is peaceful and offers electric and electric plus, fire pit, and picnic table... It's not close to water like some of the others but it has a nice amount of room between spots and lots of trees for shade."
Water and electric hookups: RVers should note varying levels of services between campgrounds. Alana R. shares about Lake Cunningham: "The sites have concrete pads with power, but no water or sewer. There is a fill station on the way in. You can pay $1 for a hot shower in the comfort station, which is very clean."
Dump station locations: Two Rivers SRA facilities require planning for proper waste disposal. Shannon G. mentions that Fawn Meadows Campground is "near the road and the dump station is in view. There is sometimes a line of campers at the dump station." RVers should plan dump station visits during non-peak hours to avoid waiting.
