Camping areas near Omaha offer a mix of prairie landscapes and wooded terrain along the Missouri River, with elevations ranging from 960 to 1,300 feet. The region experiences pronounced seasonal changes with summer highs regularly reaching 90°F while winter lows can drop below 10°F. Campers should prepare for significant temperature swings, especially during spring and fall.
What to do
Hiking and nature exploration: Hitchcock Nature Center provides extensive trail options with varying difficulty levels. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. I was very impressed on the hike in campsites. They already have a nice flat spot for your tent, although I'm a hammock camper," notes Aaron A. about the center's backcountry sites.
Hawk watching: Seasonal bird migration viewing is popular at certain campgrounds. "When your done with your hiking, climb up to the top of the towering platform and bring your binoculars to checkout the visiting hawks and occasional eagle," suggests Matt S. at Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Educational programs: Many parks offer seasonal learning opportunities for all ages. "They have Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc. During the winter they even over snowshoeing events," writes Pat V. about the year-round activities available.
Mountain biking: "It is also right by a killer mountain biking trail (lookup Oxbow Trail System on Trailforks if you are into that)," shares Andrew D. about Ashland RV Campground, noting its proximity to technical trails.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the maintenance standards at rv parks near Omaha. "This one was the nicest and cleanest campground we have been to yet. Everything was freshly manicured on the grounds. Everything was very clean and no trash whatsoever anywhere," reports Caleb L. about Victorian Acres RV Park.
Convenient location: Several campgrounds provide easy interstate access while still offering peaceful stays. "Just stopped for one night. Some highway and train noise whenever outside... Sites are nice with trees and vegetation but not very level. Dog park is nice though. Would recommend for a stopover," notes Maggie C. about Victorian Acres.
Self-service options: For late arrivals, some parks offer streamlined check-in processes. "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," writes Abby W. about her experience.
Small town access: "It is close to main street Ashland, which offers gourmet coffee (Fariner Bakery was my favorite), and a couple of restaurants (Cheri-O's seemed to be the hot spot)," describes Andrew D., highlighting walkable small town amenities near camping options.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Before planning trips, check operating schedules as they vary widely. "I arrived February 28 to visit the casino and friends in town. I couldn't figure out where to check in so I called the number on the website. Turns out the RV parking is closed for the winter," reports Lisa C. about Bluffs Run RV Park at Horseshoe Casino.
Noise considerations: Highway and train noise affects multiple campgrounds in the area. "Interstate was RIGHT THERE..... but the noise of our AC downed it out!" notes Susan W. about her stay at Bluffs Run RV Park.
Payment systems: Some smaller campgrounds have simple payment structures. "Small park in a cute neighborhood. 8 RV spots with electric and water. Tent camping as well. $15 / night for RV spot. $10 / night tent spots. 5 day max. Pay at the bath house, no host on site," explains Jacob T. about Bob Hardy RV Park.
Military-specific options: "It's a nice campground especially since it's MWR. Many full hook up sites and a very nice boat house with water toy rentals. We stayed off season and the self registration is easy," notes Sean F. regarding the camping options at Offutt AFB.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Look for parks with nature centers and kid-friendly programs. "This is one of our favorite places to camp. It's beautiful and there's plenty of hiking. With the nature Center there is plenty for the kids to do. There's even a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy," recommends Karen W.
Geocaching options: Some parks offer treasure hunting activities within walking distance. "To entertain my kids (ages 6-12), there were several geocaches to find within walking distance, and the town has a splash pad and pool during the summer months," shares Andrew D. about activities near Ashland RV Campground.
Playground access: Several campgrounds provide on-site play areas. "They had electric hookups, grills and picnic tables at every site plus a small playground for kids," notes Wendy M. about her stay at Bob Hardy RV Park.
Summer water features: Public pools and splash pads supplement camping activities during hot months. "The owners take great care of the pool, so our grandkids come out and swim with us whenever they can. So many campground pools are a bit scary, but not this one," praises Allison B.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require leveling equipment. "Site wasn't level front to back and the host offered to move us. We told her it was ok and after we step up she came back to check again. Very attentive and kind!" shares Jen S. about Ashland RV Campground.
Big rig considerations: "We stayed here 1 night while passing through. Easy access from the highway. The staff and other campers were very friendly. Large sites, many with trees," notes Zach H., highlighting important features for larger rigs.
Utility placement: Be aware of how utilities are arranged at each site. "Really nice pull through sites and we came in after hours but called ahead of time and had a note in the night box explains everything in detail on what we needed to do," reports Caleb L.
Dump station availability: Many campgrounds provide free dump stations, but locations vary. "Single free dump station as well," notes Jacob T. about Bob Hardy RV Park, while other reviews mention having to drive significant distances to reach dump stations at some rv parks near Omaha NE.
