Camping near Papillion, Nebraska offers easy access to a mix of prairie, woodland, and river landscapes with seasonal temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Most campgrounds in this area of eastern Nebraska sit between 1,000-1,200 feet elevation with relatively flat terrain, making them suitable for all camping skill levels. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full hookup RV facilities with seasonal availability.
What to do
Hiking trails with varied terrain: Louisville State Recreation Area Campground features trails that wind through wooded areas and along the Platte River. "There is a trail in the woods running parallel to the North Platte River. The path is in a heavily wooded area, so no lakeside views, just a nice, quiet hike with the very occasional hummm of a mosquito," notes Daniel B.
Birdwatching at observation points: Hitchcock County Nature Center provides excellent birdwatching opportunities in the unique Loess Hills. "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," recommends Matt S.
Water recreation options: Lake Cunningham Campground offers multiple water activities within Omaha city limits. "The lake itself is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing! People do swim near the beach area but it is technically not allowed. 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," shares Kwin K.
What campers like
Clean, quiet camping environments: Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area maintains well-kept facilities despite being close to urban areas. "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," notes Robert L.
Proximity to Omaha attractions: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring the region. "Tiered campground with open spaces, convenient to Omaha attractions. Nestled in a local city park that has hiking, biking, fishing and boating. Reasonable rates," says Bob T.
Family-friendly amenities: West Omaha KOA Holiday provides numerous activities 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. Everything is nicely spread out on the grounds, and the location is near the highway to reach other amenities," according to Sandra O.
What you should know
Train noise affects several parks: Louisville State Recreation Area experiences significant railroad noise. "Train noise all night," reports Bill M., while another camper warns, "The harsh part of being located here is if you are looking for any kind of spot that accommodates a flat plot, like sites 206 - 236, you are butted up against the train tracks and that train is LOUD!"
Seasonal water levels and closures: Some riverside campgrounds experience flooding issues. Haworth City Park has had recurring problems: "This park is right off the Missouri river, and everytime there is flooding this places gets shelled. We had some major flooding here 2019, and it appears this park is still closed," explains Tony B.
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Platte River State Park Campground offers better tree cover than many area options. "Open campsites with not much shade. Easy setup for our campsite," mentions Aaron W. about a nearby campground, while Platte River State Park provides more wooded sites.
Tips for camping with families
Water feature options for kids: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers water-based recreation specifically designed for families. "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!" explains Charlie B.
Educational nature programs: Hitchcock County Nature Center provides learning opportunities mixed with outdoor activities. "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)," recommends Lynn G.
Playgrounds and recreation fields: West Omaha KOA Holiday maintains dedicated play areas. "Nice park. Clean showers & restrooms. Neighbors are close not much of your own space but there is a play ground for the kids that's wonderful!!!!!" reports Megan E.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup information: Walnut Creek Lake provides reliable electric connections but limited water access. "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," shares Jim & Karen A.
Site spacing considerations: Carefully select your site at popular campgrounds to ensure adequate space. "The sites are very small however, and to do anything besides swim and play on the playground you need to drive. It's a great place to stay when visiting family! We will definitely stay again," advises Rebekah S. about West Omaha KOA Holiday.
Reservation timing strategies: During peak seasons, advance booking is essential. "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. about the pet-friendly camping near Papillion at Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area.
