The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near South Bend. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near South Bend, NE. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
Mahoney State Park offer Full Hookup, Electric Plus and Electric campsites. There are a total of 148 campsites. Lakeside Campground (100-148 campsites) are located close to Baright Lake and Owen Marina. Little Creek Campground (1-99 campsites) is close to a playground, basketball court and the coin operated laundry facility. Both campgrounds have drinking water, showers and modern restrooms. A dump and fill station is located conveniently near the park entrance.
Tent camping is available at Mahoney State Park in the two modern campgrounds. Tent campers will use the grassy area next to the pad site to set up their tent. Those tenting will pay the camping fee applicable to the site occupied. If making reservations, look for the site description of “tentable.” This means there is a level grassy space for a tent.
Reservations are accepted for half of the campsites in Lakeside and Little Creek campgrounds up to 180 days in advance of arrival date and paid in full at the time the reservation is made. All other camping at Mahoney State Park is first-come, first-served. Campers with advance reservations and those camping first-come, first-served must stop at the Lauritzen Administration building located at the park entrance to check-in or register to camp prior to setting up on a campsite. If arriving after hours, campers must go to the Peter Kiewit Lodge customer service desk and check in or register for a first-come, first-served site.
This modern state park is the perfect year round destination for a family escape. Families can visit the aquatic center and indoor playground, explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, adventure through the treetop ropes course, climb the observation tower and, when the weather turns cold, enjoy indoor rock climbing, sledding and ice skating. The jewel of the park is Peter Kiewit Lodge, which offers 40 guest rooms, most with balconies that offer a stunning view of the Platte River valley. The park also offers an arts and crafts center, an array of cabins, as well as camping opportunities. Mahoney State Park is located midway between Nebraska’s two largest cities, Lincoln and Omaha and is open year round.
Platte River State Park is nestled halfway between Nebraska’s two largest cities – and makes a great place for camping near Omaha. Before it was a state park it was two separate camps – Harriet Harding Campfire Girls Camp and Camp Esther K. Newman – and a tract of woodlands. The charming, vintage cabins that once housed campers today provide cozy accommodations while the gorgeous new glamping cabins offer a luxurious yet nature-immersive experience. Other popular draws are the park’s picturesque waterfall, spray park, scenic hiking and biking trails and two observation towers that allow those who climb to the top a spectacular view of the Platte River Basin.
$10 - $165 / night
There's plenty to do at this award-winning KOA, just a short drive from downtown Omaha and Lincoln. Enjoy the Jumping Pillow, mini zip line, pedal karts, banana bikes, large playground, swimming pool, mini golf, basketball, sand volleyball, badminton and horseshoes. Weekends (Memorial Day to Labor Day) feature breakfast in the Cornhusker Cafe, hayrides, ice cream socials, movie nights, tie-dye and other planned activities. Area attractions include the Henry Doorly Zoo, Strategic Air & Space Museum, Boys Town and museums, and the new beautiful Nebraska Crossing Outlet Mall. Nearby, enjoy wineries, casinos, top - rated golf courses and hiking/biking trails. Patio RV Sites and Deluxe Cabins make camping seem like a luxury vacation. Wings and freshly made pizza get rave reviews: You can even have them delivered to your site! Fido will love the off-leash doggie playground. Pool: Memorial Weekend - Labor Day Weekend. Max pull thru: 90 feet. Your hosts: Carrol & Eric Murray.
This West Omaha KOA campground offers Nebraska camping at its finest! Our campground is Big-Rig friendly, with 80-foot full-hook-up pull-throughs and 50-amp service available. You can also enjoy our scenic tent sites, or stay cozy in one of the cabins. Our cabins and deluxe cabins are all heated and air-conditioned for your maximum comfort. All cabins and RV sites have cable TV.
Once you're here, relax under a huge shade tree or activities, then refuel with a freshly made pizza - delivered right to your campsite! Or, enjoy breakfast in our tropical Cornhusker Cafe.
Canine owners will love our K-9 Park, where you can let Fido romp and play off the leash.
Your KOA hosts will be happy to provide you with information and maps to the many fun places to see. Come visit us - we'll make you feel welcome!
Encompassing 192 acres, Louisville State Recreation Area boasts five sandpit lakes with approximately 50 surface acres of water. Surrounded by towering cottonwood trees, this inviting area offers picnicking, swimming, fishing, non-power boating, canoe access to the Platte River and a brand new floating playground. Paddle board, water bike and kayak rentals are also available. These amenities, along with the area’s close proximity to Platte River, Mahoney state parks and Schramm Park State Recreation Area and Education Center, have made Louisville SRA a favorite spot among outdoor enthusiasts in the eastern part of the state.
Camping reservations are available on half of Louisville SRA campsites.
Louisville State Recreation Area offers campers Electric Plus, Electric and Basic campsites and is very popular with campers with 223 camping pads with 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups, as well as Basic campsites without electricity. Other amenities include shower facility and modern restrooms. Campers also have access to drinking water and a dump and fill station and a playground for children.
Lousiville State Recreation Area offers canoe access to the Platte River, as well as a special canoe campsite on the river.
$10 - $35 / night
The Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area is a 450-acre mixed-use recreation area with a 105-acre reservoir. The park is located south of Highway 370 and west of 96th Street The park has 2 entrances, 1 off of 96th St and the other a 1.5 mile farther south and 1.5 mile west on Schram Road to Turkey Road
Walnut Creek is unique, as it is a “pack in, pack out” facility. No trash service is offered in the park; you are responsible for removing any trash you generate during your visit, thus leaving the cleanliness of the park up to you, the user.
RV park - 44 electric sites (30 or 50 amp), city water available, dump station, 55 feet concrete pads, paved roads, first come first serve, $16 per night with a 2 week limit, 402-679-9889
$20 / night
$30 / night
Camp A Way Campground, located near Lincoln, NE, is a solid choice for families and travelers looking for a convenient stop with plenty of amenities. This place is open all year and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations.
One of the standout features here is the range of activities for kids. There's a playground, a pool, and even a trampoline basketball court. For a small fee, kids can enjoy ice cream, slushies, and water balloons, making it a fun spot for families. The campground also has a dog park, so your furry friends are welcome too.
The staff here are known for being friendly and helpful, which always makes a stay more pleasant. The campground is well-maintained, with clean bathrooms and showers, and even laundry facilities. If you're into staying connected, the WiFi is reportedly pretty good.
Now, if you're just passing through and need a place to rest, this campground is conveniently located near major highways. It's not the quietest spot due to the proximity to the interstates, but it's perfect for a quick overnight stop with full hookups.
For those who like a bit of luxury, there are premium sites with patios, new furniture, and full hookups. It's close to Lincoln, so you can easily pop into the city for some local attractions or a bite to eat.
Overall, Camp A Way Campground offers a mix of convenience, family-friendly activities, and essential amenities, making it a reliable choice for both short stays and longer visits.
$35 - $67 / night
Welcome to Memphis Lake State Recreation Area, nestled near Ashland, Nebraska. This spot is a gem for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The campground offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of shade from mature trees and a serene lakeside setting.
One of the standout features here is the fishing. The lake is well-stocked, making it a favorite for anglers. Plus, the no-wake zone ensures a calm environment perfect for kayaking and canoeing. If you didn't bring your own gear, don't worry—there's a concession stand near the entrance where you can rent canoes and buy bait and ice.
Camping here is pretty straightforward. Most sites come with a picnic table and fire ring, and you'll find both primitive and electric hookup options. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so plan accordingly. While the amenities are basic—think pit toilets and drinking water—what it lacks in luxury, it makes up for in tranquility and natural beauty.
Visitors have mentioned the friendly game warden who frequently checks in, ensuring everyone is following the rules and having a good time. The campground is generally quiet, with folks respecting the 10 pm quiet hours. If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife like redwing blackbirds and geese, especially around the lake.
For those with kids, there's a small playground to keep them entertained. And if you're up for a short drive, the nearby town of Ashland offers a charming downtown area worth exploring.
So, if you're looking for a laid-back camping experience with great fishing and a peaceful atmosphere, Memphis Lake State Recreation Area is definitely worth a visit.
$10 - $35 / night
Welcome to Hitchcock County Nature Center, nestled near Honey Creek, IA. This campground is a gem, especially if you're into hiking and enjoying nature. Open from April to November, it's a great spot for both short stays and longer getaways.
The campground offers a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. If you're bringing an RV, you'll appreciate the electric and sewer hookups. Tent campers will find spacious sites, many shaded by trees, providing a good amount of privacy. There's even firewood available for those cozy campfires.
One of the standout features here is the cleanliness. Visitors consistently rave about the spotless bathrooms and hot showers. Even the pit toilets are kept in good condition, which is a pleasant surprise. If you're planning to stay, remember to bring cash as it's first-come, first-served, though you can also pay by card if the camp store is open.
Hitchcock County Nature Center is a hiker's paradise. There are numerous trails right at your doorstep, ranging from easy to challenging. Some campers have even mentioned friendly cows along the way, adding a bit of charm to your hike. And if you're into stargazing, the clear skies here offer a great view, especially if you have a Starlink setup.
For those who like a bit of convenience, there's a market on-site, and pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. The campground also allows alcohol, so you can enjoy a drink by the fire.
In short, Hitchcock County Nature Center is a fantastic spot to unwind, explore, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're here for a night or a week, you'll find plenty to love.
$10 - $50 / night
$8 - $35 / night
Mahoney State Park offer Full Hookup, Electric Plus and Electric campsites. There are a total of 148 campsites. Lakeside Campground (100-148 campsites) are located close to Baright Lake and Owen Marina. Little Creek Campground (1-99 campsites) is close to a playground, basketball court and the coin operated laundry facility. Both campgrounds have drinking water, showers and modern restrooms. A dump and fill station is located conveniently near the park entrance.
Tent camping is available at Mahoney State Park in the two modern campgrounds. Tent campers will use the grassy area next to the pad site to set up their tent. Those tenting will pay the camping fee applicable to the site occupied. If making reservations, look for the site description of “tentable.” This means there is a level grassy space for a tent.
Reservations are accepted for half of the campsites in Lakeside and Little Creek campgrounds up to 180 days in advance of arrival date and paid in full at the time the reservation is made. All other camping at Mahoney State Park is first-come, first-served. Campers with advance reservations and those camping first-come, first-served must stop at the Lauritzen Administration building located at the park entrance to check-in or register to camp prior to setting up on a campsite. If arriving after hours, campers must go to the Peter Kiewit Lodge customer service desk and check in or register for a first-come, first-served site.
This modern state park is the perfect year round destination for a family escape. Families can visit the aquatic center and indoor playground, explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, adventure through the treetop ropes course, climb the observation tower and, when the weather turns cold, enjoy indoor rock climbing, sledding and ice skating. The jewel of the park is Peter Kiewit Lodge, which offers 40 guest rooms, most with balconies that offer a stunning view of the Platte River valley. The park also offers an arts and crafts center, an array of cabins, as well as camping opportunities. Mahoney State Park is located midway between Nebraska’s two largest cities, Lincoln and Omaha and is open year round.
Platte River State Park is nestled halfway between Nebraska’s two largest cities – and makes a great place for camping near Omaha. Before it was a state park it was two separate camps – Harriet Harding Campfire Girls Camp and Camp Esther K. Newman – and a tract of woodlands. The charming, vintage cabins that once housed campers today provide cozy accommodations while the gorgeous new glamping cabins offer a luxurious yet nature-immersive experience. Other popular draws are the park’s picturesque waterfall, spray park, scenic hiking and biking trails and two observation towers that allow those who climb to the top a spectacular view of the Platte River Basin.
$10 - $165 / night
There's plenty to do at this award-winning KOA, just a short drive from downtown Omaha and Lincoln. Enjoy the Jumping Pillow, mini zip line, pedal karts, banana bikes, large playground, swimming pool, mini golf, basketball, sand volleyball, badminton and horseshoes. Weekends (Memorial Day to Labor Day) feature breakfast in the Cornhusker Cafe, hayrides, ice cream socials, movie nights, tie-dye and other planned activities. Area attractions include the Henry Doorly Zoo, Strategic Air & Space Museum, Boys Town and museums, and the new beautiful Nebraska Crossing Outlet Mall. Nearby, enjoy wineries, casinos, top - rated golf courses and hiking/biking trails. Patio RV Sites and Deluxe Cabins make camping seem like a luxury vacation. Wings and freshly made pizza get rave reviews: You can even have them delivered to your site! Fido will love the off-leash doggie playground. Pool: Memorial Weekend - Labor Day Weekend. Max pull thru: 90 feet. Your hosts: Carrol & Eric Murray.
This West Omaha KOA campground offers Nebraska camping at its finest! Our campground is Big-Rig friendly, with 80-foot full-hook-up pull-throughs and 50-amp service available. You can also enjoy our scenic tent sites, or stay cozy in one of the cabins. Our cabins and deluxe cabins are all heated and air-conditioned for your maximum comfort. All cabins and RV sites have cable TV.
Once you're here, relax under a huge shade tree or activities, then refuel with a freshly made pizza - delivered right to your campsite! Or, enjoy breakfast in our tropical Cornhusker Cafe.
Canine owners will love our K-9 Park, where you can let Fido romp and play off the leash.
Your KOA hosts will be happy to provide you with information and maps to the many fun places to see. Come visit us - we'll make you feel welcome!
Encompassing 192 acres, Louisville State Recreation Area boasts five sandpit lakes with approximately 50 surface acres of water. Surrounded by towering cottonwood trees, this inviting area offers picnicking, swimming, fishing, non-power boating, canoe access to the Platte River and a brand new floating playground. Paddle board, water bike and kayak rentals are also available. These amenities, along with the area’s close proximity to Platte River, Mahoney state parks and Schramm Park State Recreation Area and Education Center, have made Louisville SRA a favorite spot among outdoor enthusiasts in the eastern part of the state.
Camping reservations are available on half of Louisville SRA campsites.
Louisville State Recreation Area offers campers Electric Plus, Electric and Basic campsites and is very popular with campers with 223 camping pads with 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups, as well as Basic campsites without electricity. Other amenities include shower facility and modern restrooms. Campers also have access to drinking water and a dump and fill station and a playground for children.
Lousiville State Recreation Area offers canoe access to the Platte River, as well as a special canoe campsite on the river.
$10 - $35 / night
The Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area is a 450-acre mixed-use recreation area with a 105-acre reservoir. The park is located south of Highway 370 and west of 96th Street The park has 2 entrances, 1 off of 96th St and the other a 1.5 mile farther south and 1.5 mile west on Schram Road to Turkey Road
Walnut Creek is unique, as it is a “pack in, pack out” facility. No trash service is offered in the park; you are responsible for removing any trash you generate during your visit, thus leaving the cleanliness of the park up to you, the user.
RV park - 44 electric sites (30 or 50 amp), city water available, dump station, 55 feet concrete pads, paved roads, first come first serve, $16 per night with a 2 week limit, 402-679-9889
$20 / night
$30 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near South Bend, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, South Bend, NE offers a wide range of camping options, with 97 campgrounds and RV parks near South Bend, NE and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near South Bend, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near South Bend, NE is Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 46 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near South Bend, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near South Bend, NE.
What parks are near South Bend, NE?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near South Bend, NE that allow camping, notably Perry Lake and Milford Lake.
