Cabin camping near Roca, Nebraska provides access to multiple state park and private options within a 45-mile radius. The region features rolling hills and farmland at an elevation of approximately 1,300 feet, with warm summers reaching 90°F and winter temperatures often below freezing. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures ideal for outdoor recreation, though seasonal thunderstorms can occur with little warning.
What to do
Fishing at Memphis Lake SRA: The lake features a no-wake zone ideal for peaceful fishing and small watercraft. "This lake has great fishing and has peace, and quiet. The lake is a no wake zone, so kayaks, and canoes are great," notes a Memphis Lake visitor. The lake contains multiple species including northern pike.
Hiking at Platte River State Park Campground: Follow trails to scenic overlooks and a small waterfall. "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees! On top of the excellent camping offered, they have a wealth of amazing hiking/biking trails that traverse through some amazing scenery," reports one visitor.
Water activities at Two Rivers SRA: The recreation area features multiple lakes and river access for various water sports. "We hiked, went paddle boating, swimming, and horse back riding. The only not so good thing about camping in this park is that it is so close to the interstate. My son was unable to fall asleep," shares a visitor describing their experience.
What campers like
Bench swings at Double Nickel Campground: Each site includes a unique swing for relaxing. "Each spot had a porch swing, picnic table and fire ring which we very much enjoyed. The laundry room was closed due to Covid, but they do have one which is helpful too," explains one camper. The campground also features mini-golf and a pool.
Kid-friendly amenities at Camp A Way Campground: Activities keep children entertained throughout their stay. "This destination was so fun! Sites are shaded and spacious. Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more! Super cute place to stay with family," mentions a visitor. The campground also maintains a dog park for pet owners.
Lake views at Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area: Tiered camping areas provide excellent visibility of the water. "The tiered tent area allows you to have a great view of the lake from wherever you setup. All RV and tent spots have picnic tables and fire rings," notes a camper. A three-mile trail surrounds the lake for hiking and biking.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect cabin comfort and availability. While summer offers warmest temperatures, spring and fall provide more moderate conditions. "We were here years ago when the kids were all a little younger. They had such fond memories that we made it work to swing thru Lincoln again and they had a blast even as teenagers," shares a Camp A Way visitor about returning during different seasons.
Highway noise at campgrounds: Several sites are located near major roads. "This is a very nice campground right off I-80 at the Lincoln downtown exit. My son and I stayed here for a week until he could move into his apartment. It was very clean and well kept," reports a Camp A Way visitor. Earplugs may be necessary for light sleepers.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Different parks maintain varying levels of cleanliness and availability. "There are nice clean vault toilets available all around the lake. There is also a large bathroom/shower house in the campground. The shower house does have a change machine on the outside of the build to get change for the showers," explains a Lake Wanahoo visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Book early for lake-view spots: Premium locations fill quickly during peak season. "I prefer the ones along the water but you have to book early to get one. A special permit is required to camp there," advises a Goldenrod Campground visitor. Many parks require advance reservations, especially for cabins.
Consider unique accommodations: Railroad caboose cabins provide novel overnight experiences. "If you enjoy some extra comforts, rent one of the train cabooses which feature a small kitchen, bathroom, AC and beds with mattresses. Our kids loved the lofted full sized bed," explains a Two Rivers visitor about the Union Pacific Caboose cabins.
Plan for lack of shade: Newer recreation areas have limited mature trees. "Lake Wanahoo is a fairly new lake in Saunders county Nebraska. Unfortunately when the lake and campground were built they planted saplings, so during the hot months there is no shade to be found," warns a visitor. Bring portable shade structures during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Check water and dump station locations: Some campgrounds have inconvenient utility placements. "When pulling your RV out here the water fill is in an awkward spot in a parking lot of the campground. To get to the dump station you have to leave the campground, get on the highway and drive to the opposite side of the lake," explains a Lake Wanahoo visitor.
Site size considerations: Verify your campsite accommodates your rig properly. "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 a visitor at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground. Request specific site dimensions when booking.
Off-season benefits: Lower crowds improve experience at popular destinations. "It's been a few years since we stayed at Lake Wanahoo, but we decided to stay there over our anniversary weekend. The place is still great, and this time of year it was very quiet and peaceful," reports an off-season visitor, noting the improved atmosphere.
