Camping options near Ralston, Nebraska range from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks within the eastern Nebraska prairie landscape. Sitting at approximately 1,099 feet of elevation, this area experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently reaching the 90s and cold winters dropping well below freezing. Summer camping typically sees high humidity levels and occasional thunderstorms, with rainfall averaging 30-35 inches annually in this region.
What to do
Hiking in the Loess Hills: At Hitchcock County Nature Center just north of Council Bluffs, trails traverse the rare loess soil formations. "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. The park features hillier terrain than typical for the region.
Water recreation options: Several lakes offer non-motorized boating opportunities within 30 minutes of Ralston. "The fishing is always as well as the kayaking is as well, (especially novice like myself). The birdwatching as well as the wildlife is abundant," reports Tony B. about Walnut Creek Lake. Rental equipment is available at several parks during summer months.
Archery practice: Hitchcock Nature Center maintains an archery range open to campers. "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!" explains Pat V., highlighting one of the more unique outdoor activities in the area.
Educational programming: The Loess Hills area hosts nature education events throughout camping season. "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," shares Lynn G. about Hitchcock Nature Center.
What campers like
Variety of tent camping options: Platte River State Park Campground offers everything from traditional campsites to teepees. "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees!" writes Jared J. The park also maintains hike-in sites that provide more privacy.
Easy access to waterways: Several campers mention lake proximity as a key feature. "I was right next to the lake, great swimming access," notes a reviewer at Lake Cunningham Campground. The campground reopened in 2022 after being closed for renovations with improved amenities.
Affordability compared to hotels: RV sites near Ralston provide economical accommodations for visitors. "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," reports Jim & Karen A. about Walnut Creek Lake, highlighting the value compared to area hotels.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers praise the maintenance of bathroom facilities. "The East end shower facility was very clean, as the host camper was cleaning it at 6 am," notes Ryan A. about Louisville State Recreation Area Campground, where the larger campground requires regular upkeep.
What you should know
Train noise affects multiple campgrounds: Particularly at Louisville State Recreation Area, railroad tracks border the southern edge of the campgrounds. "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!" warns Daniel B. Select sites far from tracks when possible.
Seasonal availability varies: Lake Cunningham only operates from April to October. "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," reports MickandKarla W. about Lake Manawa State Park Campground, noting the structured access system.
State park permits required: Nebraska state parks charge entrance fees in addition to camping fees, especially for out-of-state vehicles. Permits can be purchased at park offices or online in advance.
Campground flooding concerns: Sites near rivers occasionally experience flooding issues. "This park is right off the Missouri river, and everytime there is flooding this places gets shelled," explains Tony B. about Haworth City Park, which has faced repeated closures due to high water.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Many area campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "This site is great for any size family. The range of different camping options and amenities is incredible," mentions Sandra O. about West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday, highlighting its family-oriented facilities.
Consider water activities: Lakes with swimming areas provide built-in entertainment. "This campground had amazing staff, was clean, and had great amenities. The sites are very small however, and to do anything besides swim and play on the playground you need to drive," notes Rebekah S. about the KOA.
Pack for variable weather: Summer storms can develop quickly in eastern Nebraska, so bring rain gear and extra clothing. Shade can be limited at some newer campgrounds like Lake Manawa where one camper notes, "Not great for tents...with blaring Omaha heat and no trees, the heat here is absolutely brutal."
Try unique accommodations: Several parks offer alternatives to traditional camping. "We stayed in a tepee which was set up on a platform before our arrival. Our kids very much enjoy hiking along and through the rocky creek in the middle of the park," shares Sarah H. about her experience at Platte River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Reserve concrete pad sites: Lake Cunningham's renovated campground offers modern amenities. "Nice 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," advises Alana R.
Check hook-up configurations: Some parks have limited services at each site. "Tiered campground with open spaces, convenient to Omaha attractions. Nestled in a local city park that has hiking, biking, fishing and boating. Reasonable rates," writes Bob T. about Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area.
Watch for site size limitations: Ensure your rig fits assigned spaces. "We were given an inappropriate size space for the rig we stated, super narrow and we stuck over the road by 2 feet. They had larger sites all around us but were told we could not change," cautions Stacy M. about the West Omaha KOA.
Consider stay duration: Several campgrounds impose length-of-stay restrictions. "I was only going to stay for a week but extended to the 2 week max," mentions Jake C. about Walnut Creek, where the extended stay option proved valuable for travelers spending more time in the Ralston area.
