Camping near Omaha provides access to diverse habitats where the eastern woodlands meet the Great Plains prairie ecosystem. The region experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 86°F and winter lows often below freezing. Most campgrounds within 30 miles of Omaha operate from April through October, though several remain open year-round with reduced amenities during winter months.
What to do
Archery practice at Hitchcock: Access the dedicated archery range at Hitchcock County Nature Center just outside Omaha. "As a family we go to Hitchcock a few times a year for the hiking and the archery range they have on-site. Both are excellent and a nice escape from the city!" notes Pat V.
Hiking Loess Hills: Explore unique hill formations at Hitchcock County Nature Center where trails accommodate all skill levels. "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below. All trails are marked and there are multiple different trailheads," shares Pat V.
Water recreation options: Rent kayaks, paddle boats and other non-motorized watercraft at Louisville State Recreation Area. The campground features three lakes for water activities. "There are several lakes to choose from to fish, or nonpower boats. There is a swimming area, beach, and play inflatables for kids in the water," explains Tony B.
Winter snow activities: Visit Eugene T. Mahoney State Park during winter for seasonal activities. "This place has it all....but books up months in advance and the crowds can get a bit annoying! Hiking trails, frisbee golf, horseback riding, driving range, fishing, tennis courts, river views, cabins!" says Charlie B.
What campers like
Concrete camping pads: Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area offers well-maintained campsites with sturdy surfaces. "Great back-in site w/30 amp electrical pulg in, no water at site. Site is overlooking a small lake. Very quiet, dump station. All for $20 a night," shares Jim & Karen A.
Hawk watching opportunities: Visit the observation tower at Hitchcock County Nature Center during migration seasons. "Great hiking in Loess Hills, great Nature Center especially with programming of 'Hawk Watch'," explains James M. The center focuses on hawk conservation and education.
Boardwalk accessibility: Hitchcock Nature Center offers an accessible trail option for those with mobility concerns. "There's even a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy. There's all levels of hikes. They have a hawkwatch tower. Lots of information about Hawks and nature conservation," says Karen W.
Full hookup sites: Lake Cunningham Campground provides complete services for campers seeking amenities. "Outstanding Campground! This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds we have ever encountered! On a beautiful lake with many recreational possibilities - kayaking, sailing non power boating - some for rent. 10 miles of paved bike trails and ALL paved campsites level and clean!" states Steve D.
What you should know
Seasonal water shutoff: Winter campers should plan for limited water access at most campgrounds. "We only stayed the night, but as I was walking my dogs I saw the camp. Everywhere you turn there was something to do. Good fun," shares Adriana G. about West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday.
Train noise concerns: Several campgrounds near Omaha experience significant train noise. "We liked everything about this area but the train tracks! Be selective on where you pitch the tent. It can get loud.... River, ponds, swimming area, playground, nearby hiking," advises Chrisne E. about Louisville State Recreation Area.
Interstate highway sounds: Noise from nearby highways affects some camping areas. "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids including paddleboating, a wave pool, horse riding, ziplining, and playgrounds," notes Jennifer M.
Limited shade at some locations: Several campgrounds lack substantial tree cover. "Open campsites with not much shade. Easy setup for our campsite. Just passing through," reports Aaron W. about Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Platte River State Park Campground offers family-friendly water features. "This park offers a lot of nature activities. You can hike the many hiking trails to the mini waterfall, or Platte river. They have paddle boat and Kayak rentals. There is a splash park, shooting, archer ranges, horseback riding," explains Tony B.
Educational programs: Hitchcock Nature Center provides learning opportunities for kids. "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping. Make sure to look at their events calendar, they have exceptional programs for all ages (and especially kids)," shares Lynn G.
Family campground selection: Choose sites away from highways and train tracks for better sleep with children. "The entire park is well maintained with paved campsites that are nicely spaced apart from each other," explains a camper about Lake Cunningham facilities.
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature play areas designed for children. "The Dreamland playground, which draws families with young kids to that side of the CG next time, we'd choose a site farther from the playground for more quiet," advises MickandKarla W.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Access the dump station at Walnut Creek for waste disposal. "This is a very cool park in Papillion, Nebraska! It also has a sewer dump site for $5 (if you're not camping). See the camp host to pay," notes Trav S.
Site spacing awareness: Check site dimensions and spacing before booking. "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," reports Alana R. about Lake Cunningham.
Level sites available: Lake Manawa State Park Campground provides level camping areas for larger rigs. "Our confirmation email included precise directions from I-29, with an interstate sign confirming the turn for Lake Manawa State Park, and provided the gate code for access. We proceeded to back-in site 28 with full hookups; the back-in was easy, and the site was level," shares MickandKarla W.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Omaha: Most area campgrounds welcome pets with standard leash requirements. "We stopped late after a long 12 hour drive. I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked. The facilities were impressively clean and well maintained," mentions Abby W. about the pet-friendly Hitchcock Nature Center.
