Grand Island KOA and surrounding Nebraska campgrounds serve travelers seeking glamping near St. Paul, Nebraska amid the Platte River Valley's agricultural landscape. Positioned at approximately 1,860 feet elevation, this central Nebraska region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters dropping well below freezing. Campgrounds here operate primarily from April through October, with most closing entirely during winter months.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: War Axe State Recreation Area provides a small stocked pond where visitors can fish without needing a license, but note it's catch-and-release only. According to Crystal C., "War Axe, a much smaller area offers immediate access to fishing and fun within only 30 seconds of the highway!! Despite being so close to the highway, the location is quiet and calm."
Bicycle rentals: Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers bike rentals that allow access to the historic fort. Brian H. notes, "bike rental is fun and the fishing was good as well." The recreation area connects to a nearly 50-mile trail system as Michael B. explains: "The very long Cerro Gordo County trail is close to 50 miles long."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas during summer months. At Kearney RV Park & Campground, Edward K. shares: "The lake was very nice and our kids enjoyed playing in the water." Fort Kearny State Recreation Area features multiple lakes, with Lake 7 designated as the swimming beach.
What campers like
Quiet despite highway proximity: Several campgrounds sit near Interstate 80 but maintain surprisingly peaceful environments. At Grand Island KOA, Jared C. reports: "I was surprised how quite the sites were with it being so close to I80. The shower and bath houses are very clean. There is lots to keep kids busy... our 3 year old spent most of the evening catching toads."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The agricultural setting around these campgrounds attracts various wildlife. At Fort Kearny State Recreation Area, Jessica C. noted: "We even saw some deer in the field next to the campground. Great for an overnight stop!"
Accessibility features: Several sites provide accommodations for visitors with mobility needs. Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers "handicap accessible piers" at Lakes 5, 6 and 7 according to Susan L. Similarly, at War Axe State Recreation Area, Kyla B. notes the area "has handicap restroom available and covered picnic tables."
What you should know
Park permits required: Nebraska state recreation areas require entrance permits not available on-site. Crystal C. advises at War Axe State Recreation Area: "You will need an access pass to stay here or even visit. These cannot be obtained at the site and must be repurchased before visiting either online or at one of the main offices."
Seasonal closures affect availability: Most campgrounds in the area close during winter months. Peter W. notes at Grand Island KOA: "This KOA sounds like it will be improving on already nice conditions." Many visitors mention calling ahead during shoulder seasons to confirm operating status.
Variable bathroom conditions: Bathroom quality varies widely between campgrounds. At Kearney RV Park & Campground, Karen M. describes: "The showers were separate shower rooms. Two were just shower. There were two other that had a toilet in them. The wasn't any place to set your bath items or clothes." However, Jeana K. had a different experience: "Great wifi and the cleanest/nicest bathroom and shower area!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Grand Island KOA, Angie S. describes "Nice pool and large playground for the kids." Similarly, Fort Kearny State Recreation Area features playground equipment, though one visitor noted it may be seasonally closed.
Wildlife activities: Children often enjoy the natural surroundings. Jared C. shares, "our 3 year old spent most of the evening catching toads." The sandpit lakes at Fort Kearny offer opportunities for wildlife viewing along shorelines.
Storm shelters: Nebraska's severe weather potential means some campgrounds maintain storm shelters. At Kearney RV Park & Campground, Maggie C. notes: "There are storm shelters available in the bathhouse." This provides important safety considerations for families camping in spring and summer months when severe storms are most common.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing varies significantly: RV sites range from spacious to extremely tight depending on location. At Kearney RV Park & Campground, Jennifer O. shares: "We rolled in and didn't even need to unhook. Level site, quiet (except for the interstate), easy breezy check in, clean, and easy out." However, at Grand Island KOA, Mary T. warns: "Great campground other that you are on top of your neighbors. Thought we might not be able to open our awning, only about 3 to 4 feet between sites."
Limited primitive options: While glamping near St. Paul provides comfort, primitive camping options exist for those seeking simpler setups. Kyla B. explains that War Axe offers "Primitive camping at $10 per night. Must have State Park sticker as it is managed by NE Game and Parks. Has handicap restroom available and covered picnic tables. Little pond for fishing with a dock. Pets allowed, no fire pits onsite, no water or dumpsite."
