Best Glamping near Ponca, NE

Scenic Park in South Sioux City offers upscale glamping accommodations along the Missouri River, where visitors can enjoy canvas tent options with modern amenities. The spacious sites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and scenic views of both the river and city skyline. One guest shared, "The sites closer to the river tend to be quieter. This is a city-run park and offers plenty to do." Glamping accommodations include full hookups, WiFi, and cable television, creating a comfortable outdoor experience without sacrificing modern conveniences. Nearby Sioux City North KOA provides additional eco-friendly glamping options with canvas accommodations that blend comfort with nature. Both locations maintain clean facilities with hot showers and well-maintained grounds, making them ideal for travelers seeking upscale outdoor accommodations.

The Missouri River location provides abundant recreational opportunities for glamping guests. Clay County Park features comfortable glamping accommodations with access to multi-use trails, picnic shelters, and a boat ramp for water activities. According to a visitor, "The place was clean and peaceful, close to the beautiful Missouri River with opportunities for hiking and fishing." Scenic Park offers tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball fields, and trails along the river for glamping visitors who want to balance luxury with outdoor adventure. Most glamping sites in the area operate year-round, though some have seasonal restrictions from April through October. The proximity to both natural attractions and urban amenities in Sioux City creates a versatile glamping experience where guests can enjoy outdoor activities during the day and return to comfortable canvas accommodations with modern amenities at night.

Best Glamping Sites Near Ponca, Nebraska (12)

    1. Scenic Park

    17 Reviews
    Sioux City, IA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 494-7531

    $18 - $30 / night

    "We stayed in a pull through that was very spacious with picnic table and fire pit. Spectated by trees so your not on top of your neighbor. Bathrooms and showers were very clean!"

    "Very friendly staff.  Restrooms are kept clean.  It is a large campground with several different restrooms with showers. "

    2. Sioux City North KOA

    5 Reviews
    North Sioux City, SD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 232-4519

    "A tent site was $40 with no electricity so it’s more pricy then other sites but they have a ton of things to do. Checkers, chess, swings, play set, mini golf, inflatable bouncy blog, pool, and more."

    "Arrived late and left so early we didn’t even see any of the staff. Campground and bath houses were clean. However, campsites are very close together. Great for quick overnight stop.!!!"

    3. Clay County Park — Clay County

    6 Reviews
    Vermillion, SD
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 809-2071

    "The whole area was thoroughly cleaned, trees trimmed, trails groomed, restrooms spiffed, etc.  Guest feedback on these changes was overwhelmingly positive and we expect further growth this season. "

    "Electric, water, and dump station available here. In the trees, shaded, and a short walk along a pleasant trail to the Missouri River. The trail system, which is accessible from campground, is great."

    4. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    Onawa, IA
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 423-2829

    $15 - $40 / night

    "We were able to reserve an electric unit (#30) right off the lake and across the road from the large playground (~5 setups for different age groups)."

    "Access to water close by. Large playground for kids. Campground host had firewood. Picnic table & firepit with grill rack in good condition. Nearby boat ramp to load kayak onto Blue Lake."

    5. Yankton — Lewis And Clark Recreation Area

    18 Reviews
    Homme Lake, ND
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 388-4169

    $15 / night

    "We had a wonderfull Campside with view of the Lake .The campground is very big and Quiet. Very clean Bathhouses .Lot of Beaches and Playgrounds for Kids. We come back ."

    "Nebraska is HORRIBLE!!! We quit the Nebraska State parks years ago! Putting in coins to take a shower?! Really?! South Dakota doesn’t do that!!! South Dakota State Parks ROCK!!!!!"

    6. Chief White Crane Recreation Area

    9 Reviews
    Homme Lake, ND
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 668-2985

    $8 - $55 / night

    "The kids and pets especially enjoyed it!"

    "Located south of Yankton, SD and part of the South Dakota State Park system, this is a nice place to camp in a beautiful grove of cottonwood trees (I think)."

    7. Cottonwood Campground

    9 Reviews
    Yankton, SD
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 667-2546

    $20 - $22 / night

    "* 2 modern Bath house/toilets

    • Trash
    • Water sites
    • Cell phone service
    • Drinking water 
    • Flush toilets
    • Grills/fire rings
    • Lake access
    • Paved roads
    • Paved sites
    • Pets allowed"

    "Every site had electric hookups. There is access to water and restrooms in each loop. Some of the sites are right near Lake Yankton. There was decent fishing but nothing too special."

    8. Veterans Memorial RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Pierce, NE
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 337-0567

    9. On-Ur-Wa RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Onawa, IA
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 423-1387

    "It’s right by a small truck stop, but the noise was not bothersome at all. There is a small dog park for the pups. Bathrooms and showers are clean."

    "Great location. Very nice campground. Large spacious pull thru sites. Extremely clean bathrooms and showers. We stayed twice, westbound and eastbound. Very friendly, nice people."

    10. Onawa-Blue Lake KOA

    7 Reviews
    Onawa, IA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 423-1633

    "Conveniently located approximately 2.5 miles West of I29 and on the Eastern edge of Lewis and Clark state park which makes this KOA very quiet."

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Recent Glamping Photos near Ponca, NE

3 Photos of 12 Ponca Campgrounds


Glamping Reviews near Ponca, NE

108 Reviews of 12 Ponca Campgrounds


  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2021

    Cottonwood Campground

    Best of Both States

    Dates: April 15, 2021- October 17, 2021 October 17 2021– April 21, 2022

    Fees:$16.00$18.00 

    • RV dump station is located just north of Cottonwood Campground off of Toe Road.
    • 7 electrical sites
    • 2 modern Bath house/toilets
    • Trash
    • Water sites
    • Cell phone service
    • Drinking water 
    • Flush toilets
    • Grills/fire rings
    • Lake access
    • Paved roads
    • Paved sites
    • Pets allowed
    • Picnic tables
    • Playground
    • Security lights
    • Disc golf
    • Shade

    The Lewis and Clark Visitor Center: Contains exhibits on the Missouri River and area history including the Lewis and Clark Expedition with stunning views of Lewis and Clark Lake along with the Missouri River. Powerhouse Tours are available on weekends. Please contact the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center at (402) 667-2546 for more information.• The Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium• Visit nearby Yankton, South Dakota- the historic capitol of the Dakota Territory.• Located both upstream and downstream of Lewis and Clark Lake, visit the Missouri National Recreational River.

    •• Latitude• 42° 51' 31.0000" N • Longitude• 97° 28' 57.0000" W••

    From U.S. Hwy 81 in Yankton, South Dakota, drive four miles west on South Dakota Highway 52, then south on Dam Toe Road and follow signs

    .• Check-In Time is 4:00 P.M./ Check-Out Time is 2:00 P.M.

    All-Terrain Vehicles(ATVs/UTVs) and golf carts are not permitted.

    Quiet hours are 10:00 P.M. to 6:00 A.M.

    Fireworks are prohibited.

    All pets must be on a leash of 6 feet in length or less. Pet waste must be picked up and properly disposed of promptly.

    Firewood Alert: Don't Move Firewood!• Due to the spread of invasive insects(such as Emerald Ash Borer(EAB)) firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect your forests by purchasing near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Firewood is not available for sale on-site, however several local businesses sell firewood a short distance away, see the campground host or attendant for more information.• Visit DontMoveFirewood.org for more information.

    For questions or to contact park staff, please call: 402-667-2546 or email: gavinspoint.nwo@usace.army.mil. U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS GAVINS POINT PROJECT OFFICE P.O. BOX 710 YANKTON, SD 57078 

    Physical Address U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND 198 TOE RD YANKTON, SD 57078 Phone Number

    For facility specific information, please call (402) 667-2546 

    Trails: There are at least 9 hiking trails on AllTrails that you will find around Lewis and Clark Recreation Area. Lewis and Clark has the best of both worlds since the lake borders South Dakota and Nebraska. That makes it easy to stay in your preferred state and location. In Yankton SD a great trail is the Chalk Bluffs Multi-Use Trail which is a 3.7 mile loop where you will find a lake and it is rated as moderate. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash. This trail is used for hiking, horses, mountain biking and birding and is accessible through out the year. There is a 3.8 mile lightly used round trip or one way out and back called Yankton South Shore Trail. Great for wildlife viewing and it is great for walking, hiking and just enjoying nature. 

    Fishing: Lewis & Clark offers many types of fish for all anglers out there, walleye, sauger, large and small mouth bass, crappie, catfish and bluegill. It depends on the season and temperature of the water as to what is biting.

     Boating: Boating goes hand in hand with fishing and as with all things there are rules and regulations. You will find all types of boats, speedboats, pontoon, kayaks and personal watercraft. Make sure and wear your life jacket anytime you are on the water– Stay Safe and Alive. Make sure you are aware of the rules and regulations for boating around a dam area.

    Another issue that has become an increasing problem is Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) which is spreading in the United States. There are different types of AIS and they are being spread by several methods. Boaters, of all types, help spread or help stop the spread by taking care of their watercraft. Before leaving a boat launch practice the CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY technique. Many states require an AIS permit before you place watercraft in the water. 

    Birding: Birding at Lewis & Clark is great for watching bald eagles. You can get a list from Niobrara State Park for birds found around the lake.

     Hunting: In season, of course, begins the Tuesday after Labor Day. White tailed deer, mourning dove, waterfowl and wild turkey, cottontail rabbits and squirrel. Make sure you follow all the regulations in the recreation area. 

    Winter sports: Adds a completely new option for recreation. When ice is thick enough the lake is open for ice fishing, skating and snowmobiles. Cross country skiing is also very popular. 

    Lewis & Clark Lake is formed from the Missouri and Niabrara Rivers. The lake travels for about 35 miles at a maximum pool 90 miles of shoreline. Maximum depth is 45 feet. It was named after the Lewis& Clark Expedition that camped nearby. 

    LNT 

    Better than when you found it

    Stay safe– Happy Travels

  • Emily C.
    Jun. 19, 2020

    Sioux City North KOA

    Very fun

    A tent site was $40 with no electricity so it’s more pricy then other sites but they have a ton of things to do. Checkers, chess, swings, play set, mini golf, inflatable bouncy blog, pool, and more. They had a gift shop with anything you needed to buy. The bathrooms were very nice and clean but did smell a bit. They had electricity/ wall outlets in the bathrooms. The highway is very close so you do hear cars. Privacy fences around the site to block out the neighborhood. Very nice staff!

  • N K.
    Oct. 11, 2020

    Lewis and Clark State Park Campground

    Clean & kid friendly

    Well kept & family friendly camping in Iowa! We were able to reserve an electric unit (#30) right off the lake and across the road from the large playground (~5 setups for different age groups). We could watch the kids play while getting food ready or preparing a line to throw in the water. Short walk to the very clean restrooms with flush toilets & showers. Will come back!

  • Stephanie S.
    Sep. 5, 2021

    Scenic Park

    Nice quiet park

    Host was very friendly and helpful. They had some spots on the river. We stayed in a pull through that was very spacious with picnic table and fire pit. Spectated by trees so your not on top of your neighbor. Bathrooms and showers were very clean! Although no hand soap so bring your own. Showers were free and they had bikes you could check out to ride around. Park is super close to huge park with Tennis courts and other activities.

  • Chris S.
    Jul. 8, 2019

    Scenic Park

    Nice Stopover Spot

    We stayed with our class A RV on our way to and from a further destination. First spot was one right along the river. All the spots are spacious...neighbors are not on top of you. This spot had a nice concrete pad with a picnic table (not so nice with peeling paint). Views of the river and city were nice. Full hook-ups with sewer, water, electric, cable, and wi-if. Second spot was not on the river but equally spacious. No concrete pad with this one. Bathhouses were a mixed bag. One was large with numerous stalls and showers and very clean. The other quite small (2 stalls and one shower) and not so clean. Had to step around empty shampoo and conditioner bottles on floor and a used razor on the soap dish.....there in the early evening and still there around 9 the next morning. Many of the sites seemed to be extended stay and not all trailers were well kept.....plastic covering windows, haphazard decks, etc. All-in-all though an Ok stopover in a longer trip.

  • Kris H.
    Jul. 24, 2019

    Scenic Park

    very friendly

    Scenic park is across the Missouri river from Sioux City,  Iowa.  It is easy to get to. Very friendly staff.  Restrooms are kept clean.  It is a large campground with several different restrooms with showers.  There is a number of permanent campsites, there is also some that can be reserved.  Some are also pull thru's. Ice and firewood are available on site.  There  is a separate area available for tents. With it being  on the edge of South Sioux City, Ne and across the river from Sioux City, Ia. there is lots of shopping options close by.  It can also be reserved for groups, with a shelter available for use.  There are some sunny spots and also spots with lots of shade.  I really like this campground!

  • Chris S.
    Jul. 28, 2019

    Scenic Park

    Nice Stopover Spot

    We stayed with our class A RV on our way to and from a further destination in early July. First spot was one right along the river. All the spots are spacious...neighbors are not on top of you. This spot had a nice concrete slab with a picnic table (not so nice with peeling paint). Views of the river and city were nice. Full hook-ups with sewer, water, electric and (spotty) WiFi. Second spot was not on the river but equally spacious. No concrete patio with this one. Bathhouse’s were a mixed bag. One was large with numerous stalls and showers and very clean. The other quite small (2 stalls and one shower) and not so clean. Had to step around empty shampoo and conditioner bottles on the floor and a used razor on the soap dish...there in the early evening and still around 9 the next morning. Many sites seemed to be extended stay and not all were well kept...plastic covering windows, haphazard decks, etc. All-in-all though an OK one night stopover spot if you’re traveling through.

  • Douglas A.
    Aug. 16, 2020

    Scenic Park

    Ok stop for a night

    No real complaints. Clean campground, friendly hosts. Prefer more nature, but not a bad stop on a long drive. Right on river, but huge park with lots of campers, and tucked in between soccer fields. Safe and convenient though, and had a camp fire. Wifi not very good, but electric and water hookups were fine.

  • Pat V.
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Scenic Park

    Great spot close to everything

    We found the Scenic Park RV Campground when we were looking for a spot to stay close to Sioux City, IA for a sports event for our sons. We were extremely happy with this city run campground.

    The pads are in great shape. They offer full hookups. We did not have a full hookup site, but still had water, electric, and free cable tv. The view from our camper of the Missouri River and the Sioux City skyline was pretty great.

    The staff is friendly and welcoming. The location is quiet and everyone staying there seemed very nice as well. Will definitely be back when we’re up that way again next year.


Guide to Ponca

Scenic Park in South Sioux City offers electric and full hookup sites along the Missouri River. Spacious pull-through sites accommodate large RVs with concrete pads at some locations. Sites near the river feature views of both the water and Sioux City skyline across the river. The campground includes tent camping areas along with four modern cabins. Recreational facilities include tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball fields, and riverside walking trails. Most visitors report the campground maintains clean facilities with multiple restroom buildings offering showers. Located 33 miles south of Ponca, the park serves as a convenient base for exploring the region while providing both city amenities and outdoor recreation.

What to do

Fishing access: Lewis and Clark State Park provides bank fishing and boat launch facilities for anglers. According to visitor Katie S., "This place has great fishing and is very well maintained not to mention that they have a replica of the Boat that Lewis and Clark traveled on many years ago. They will also occasionally take it out and give rides."

Hiking trails: The trail system at Clay County Park connects to the Missouri River and winds through wooded areas. A recent camper noted, "The trail system, which is accessible from campground, is great. We were in site 18, which is near the playground. In busier months, that part of the campground could get loud."

Multi-use trails: Yankton — Lewis And Clark Recreation Area features dedicated bike trails connecting multiple beaches and recreation areas. One visitor shared, "This beautiful campground has a bike trail that connects all the beaches. It has hiking trails, parks, and a georgous lake for swimming or boating."

What campers like

Riverfront camping: Scenic Park offers sites directly along the Missouri River with impressive views. A camper reported, "Sites are easy to park in. Plenty of trees and grass. Some noise from train and city, but very bearable. Easy access from and to Sioux City and highway."

Shade trees: Chief White Crane Recreation Area features mature cottonwood trees providing ample shade throughout the campground. One visitor noted, "Level blacktop sites. Flat campground. Fishing, playground, nice dump station. High tree canopy, large old growth trees."

Spacious sites: Most campgrounds in the Ponca region provide ample space between camping spots. At Yankton — Lewis And Clark Recreation Area, a camper mentioned, "Large sites with bike trails right on lake." This sentiment is echoed at many area campgrounds, where privacy is valued.

What you should know

Site reservations: Most campgrounds near Ponca require reservations, particularly during peak season. At Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, one visitor advised, "The sites are electric only and sites get booked fast. If it is during peak season, you want to reserve a site 90 days in advance."

Seasonal considerations: While many campgrounds operate year-round, some facilities close or reduce services during winter months. Chief White Crane Recreation Area maintains electric sites throughout the year, but water access points may be limited in colder months.

Access to glamping options: Traditional glamping near Ponca, Nebraska often takes the form of cabin rentals rather than canvas tents. Clay County Park offers cabin accommodations for those seeking glamping-style comforts, with one visitor noting, "Clay County Park features 40 electric campsites, 8 tent sites, 1 cabin, a multi-use trail, picnic shelters, and a boat ramp."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Cottonwood Campground offers dedicated playgrounds for younger visitors. A camper shared, "This campground contains a disc golf course, playground and restrooms. The campground is named for the large amount of cottonwood trees, so be prepared to get cotton all over."

Open recreation areas: Chief White Crane Recreation Area features large green spaces for games and activities. A family camper noted, "Our family liked this place so much that we actually changed our itinerary to stay an extra night. The kids and pets especially enjoyed it! There is a huge green space in the middle of the campground."

Water activities: Lakes and river access points provide swimming opportunities during summer months. At Lewis and Clark State Park, a visitor mentioned, "It has a playground for the kids. nice updated bathroom facilities with showers. They also have a beach and boat dock."

Tips from RVers

Site selection: When booking at Scenic Park, experienced RVers recommend requesting river-view sites for better privacy. According to one review, "We stayed with our class A RV on our way to and from a further destination. First spot was one right along the river. All the spots are spacious...neighbors are not on top of you."

Hookup availability: Full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections are available at Scenic Park and limited at other area campgrounds. For partial hookups, one RVer at Cottonwood Campground noted, "No water or sewer at the campsite, but they are close-by."

Road conditions: Access roads to some glamping and camping areas near Ponca may be challenging. A visitor to Veterans Memorial RV Park warned, "The area around here is all torn up the road in is cobblestone so it's real bumpy."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Ponca, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Ponca, NE is Scenic Park with a 4-star rating from 17 reviews.

What is the best site to find glamping camping near Ponca, NE?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 glamping camping locations near Ponca, NE, with real photos and reviews from campers.