Camping options near Scribner, Nebraska include several campgrounds within 30-40 minutes' drive. The area sits in the eastern Nebraska plains along the Elkhorn River, typically experiencing hot summers with temperatures in the 90s and cold winters where sites may close seasonally. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October, with limited winter availability for RV travelers.
What to do
Hiking trails and wildlife viewing: Hitchcock County Nature Center offers miles of trails through the unique Loess Hills. A visitor noted, "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. I was very impressed on the hike in campsites. The views from the two south east campsites are amazing, looking over the Missouri River valley and the Omaha skyline in the distance."
Educational programs: Hitchcock County Nature Center hosts regular nature programs and activities. One camper mentioned, "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." Another visitor added, "They have Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc."
Fishing opportunities: Czechland Lake Recreation Area provides good fishing with multiple species. A review states, "I did not fish but was told the fishing was very good," while another camper mentioned, "The boys were catching a lot of crappie, as well as some large mouth bass and bluegill."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept grounds and bathroom facilities. At On-Ur-Wa RV Park, a visitor noted, "Extremely clean bathrooms and showers. We stayed twice, westbound and eastbound. Very friendly, nice people."
Peaceful atmosphere: Despite proximity to highways, several parks offer quiet camping. A visitor to Czechland Lake Recreation Area shared, "This is a nice small campground that is well taken care of," and another mentioned it was "quiet and peaceful."
Self-service options: Some locations offer easy check-in processes. At Hitchcock County Nature Center, one camper appreciated, "Stopped late after a long 12 hour drive. I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked."
What you should know
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites require leveling equipment. At Czechland Lake, a camper warned, "You will need to bring leveling blocks for nearly every site since the campground is built on a hill," and another noted their site was "about 7" lower than driver side and rear of fifth wheel was about 3" lower than front before we levelled out."
Weather preparedness: Severe weather can occur with limited shelter options. A visitor to West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday shared their experience: "We stayed for only a night while passing through. The campgrounds were very clean, sites well maintained bathroom and showers were clean as well. Only complaint I have is there was a major storm that rolled though..."
Payment systems: Several rv parks near Scribner, Nebraska now use digital payment. At Czechland Lake, a visitor noted, "Pay with your phone with QR code scan to pay so no need to have cash or check."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pine Grove RV Park & Campground offers facilities for children. A camper mentioned, "Convenient location right off the highway, but with that you do get the noise. Has a playground and pool as will as a convenience store."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming amenities. At River Land Campground near Columbus, a visitor noted, "Columbus has activities for kids too. Water park (the Pawnee plunge) & playgrounds (Centennial Park)."
Educational opportunities: Hitchcock County Nature Center provides learning experiences for children. A reviewer shared, "We love doing their extra classes," and another mentioned, "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."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points for larger rigs. At Czechland Lake, a visitor cautioned, "May be difficult parking for larger rigs (35ft+) due to the one way entrance and curvature of the campground."
Site selection strategy: Ashland RV Campground offers varied site options. A camper advised, "I stayed at site #22 because it is close to the playground and is a full hookup site. The only downside to this campsite is the traffic noise."
Utility connections: RV parks in Scribner, Nebraska area have varied hookup placements. At Bob Hardy RV Park, a visitor reported, "Cute little campground, electrical only. Picnic table and grill at each site. No fires. Shower house available until it's gets down to freezing weather. Dump station and water fill."