Papillion camping offers options within a 30-minute drive from Omaha, with access to several state parks and recreation areas. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet above sea level in the rolling hills of eastern Nebraska, characterized by prairie landscapes interspersed with wooded creek valleys. Seasonal temperatures range from winter lows around 10°F to summer highs in the 90s, with most campers visiting from April through October.
What to do
Birdwatching at Hitchcock Nature Center: Located 30 minutes from Papillion in the Loess Hills, this center offers exceptional hawk watching from their observation tower. "This is one of our favorite places to camp. It's beautiful and there's plenty of hiking. The campgrounds are a little way away from the road and more secluded so they're very quiet," notes Karen W. about Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Kayaking at Lake Cunningham: This urban lake offers rentals for kayaks and paddleboards, perfect for beginners. "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!" shares Kwin K. about Lake Cunningham Campground.
Splash park and activities: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers multiple recreation options beyond typical camping. "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," says Jennifer M. about the family-friendly amenities at the park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers mention the well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. "Wednesday at 3pm there were 8 sites open. Nice city park. Electric hookups. Water spigot about the park. Dump station by the entrance. Playground and vault toilet on top of the hill. All grounds are clean. Very friendly camp host," reports Robert L. about Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area.
Affordable pricing: Several campgrounds offer reasonable rates for their amenities. "Great back-in site w/30 amp electrical pulg in, no water at site. Site is overlooking a small lake. Very quiet, dump statio. All for $20 a night," writes Jim & Karen A. about their stay at Walnut Creek.
Hiking options: The region offers varied terrain for hiking. "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 the a multiple different trailheads," explains Pat V. about Hitchcock Nature Center.
What you should know
Train noise: Louisville State Recreation Area sits near active train tracks, affecting sleep quality. "Train noise all night," reports Bill M. in his review of Louisville State Recreation Area Campground. Multiple reviewers mention this disruption as a significant drawback.
Limited shade: Many sites lack substantial tree cover. "Open campsites with not much shade. Easy setup for our campsite. Just passing through," notes Aaron W. about Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area.
Reservations essential: Popular parks fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. "We always stop here when we're traveling on I-80. It's the perfect distance for us to overnight before moving on. Clean campground, showers/bathroom. Courteous employees. We've stopped on a couple of holidays & a reservation is a must! They are very busy!" advises Cynthia K. about her experiences at KOA campgrounds in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "This site is great for any size family. The range of different camping options and amenities is incredible. The facilities are well maintained, the staff is friendly and helpful," recommends Sandra O. about the West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. "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," shares Erik M. about Platte River State Park Campground, which offers various accommodation types.
Plan for swimming: Several parks feature swimming areas that appeal to families with children. "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. about Platte River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dump stations, though availability varies. "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," advises Trav S. about Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area.
Site selection for large rigs: Choose campgrounds that can accommodate your vehicle size. "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," notes Alana R. about Lake Cunningham Campground.
Arrival timing: During peak season, weekday arrivals improve your chances of securing a spot. "We needed an overnight stop on our way to Kansas and this KOA was perfect. We pulled in just after dark and there was a note on the door stating staff was limited due to Covid. We pulled into a very large pull through on the west side of the campground," shares Glenda D. about her experience at West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA.
