Platte River State Park offers varied overnight accommodations just 12 miles from South Bend in eastern Nebraska, situated 1,200 feet above sea level where the Great Plains meet the Missouri River Valley. The park's diverse terrain includes wooded bluffs and creek valleys with 10 miles of hiking trails across 418 acres. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with moderate humidity, making late spring and early fall ideal camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes at Louisville State Recreation Area provide year-round fishing. "Lots of trees for shade 7 lakes to fish platte river to boat in and 4 area's to choose from for camping tent or rv," notes reviewer Linda H.
Kayaking and paddling: Rent equipment at several parks including Branched Oak Lake where paddlers enjoy protected areas. "There's a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals," writes Jordan H.
Trail running and hiking: The hilly terrain offers varied difficulty levels for hikers and runners. "Good hiking, horse rides, great hills for trail running," reports Sara B. about Platte River State Park, which features terrain changes unusual for the generally flat Nebraska landscape.
Horseback rides: While no dedicated equestrian camping exists near South Bend, Nebraska, day rides are available at select parks. Unfortunately, dedicated horse corrals are not available at any of the reviewed campgrounds, limiting options for overnight equestrian camping near South Bend.
What campers like
Creek exploration: Families appreciate the rocky creeks at Platte River State Park Campground. "Our kids very much enjoy hiking along and through the rocky creek in the middle of the park that leads to a tower overlooking the Platte River and surrounding farmland," shares Sarah H.
Observation towers: Climb to scenic overlooks for views of the surrounding landscape. "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees!" says Jared J., who also notes the "amazing hiking/biking trails that traverse through some amazing scenery."
Diverse camping options: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground offers multiple accommodation styles. "This place has it all....but books up months in advance and the crowds can get a bit annoying! Hiking trails, frisbee golf, horseback riding, driving range, fishing, tennis courts, river views, cabins!" explains Charlie B.
Water activities: Several parks feature swimming areas, splash parks, or paddleboating. "This park offers a lot of nature activities. You can hike the many hiking trails to the mini waterfall, or Platte river. They have paddle boat and Kayak rentals. There is a splash park, shooting, archer ranges, horseback riding," reports Tony B.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds report significant railroad disruption. At Louisville State Recreation Area, "We liked everything about this area but the train tracks! Be selective on where you pitch the tent. It can get loud," warns Chrisne E.
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months. "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids including paddleboating, a wave pool, horse riding, ziplining, and playgrounds," shares Jennifer M. about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
Cost considerations: Entry fees apply for non-Nebraska vehicles at state parks, plus additional activity fees at some locations. "I picked this campground as a stopping point on the way to Yellowstone primarily for the pool for the kids. The pool is awesome. It was, however, expensive. $10 for adults (even as a non swimmer) and $8 for kids plus $3 to rent a tube for the wave pool," notes Meghan H.
Limited equestrian facilities: Despite offering trail rides, no dedicated equestrian camping with corrals exists near South Bend. While some parks like Eugene T. Mahoney offer horseback riding activities, none provide horse corrals or specialized overnight equestrian camping accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Caboose rentals: For unique family accommodations, consider the train cabooses at Two Rivers SRA. "Our kids very much enjoy riding a bike around the paved roads. Fishing in one of the sandpit lakes they have to offer, or the river. Walk around the nature trails, or lakes. Or swimming in the swimming area, or wading in the Platte River," shares Tony B.
Kid-friendly fishing: Trout lakes at some parks ensure successful fishing experiences for children. "This is a great campground for camping and fishing with kids. The fishing is easy in all the lakes and they have a pay fishing trout lake that nearly guarantees success. Our kid and her friends love the swimming beach," says Rick J.
Activity variety: Lake Cunningham Campground offers multiple recreation options. "This lake is one of the very few in Omaha that offers camping. And definitely of all types rv, and tent. This place has always been well maintained, and offered a lot of amenities. They also offered rental boats for the lake, a really nice walking trail, and fishing," explains Tony B.
Playgrounds: Most parks feature playground equipment near camping areas, allowing parents to supervise from their sites. "Very nice park! Not as crowded as neighboring Mahoney State Park but very similar activities," mentions Alex R. about Platte River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Two Rivers SRA, choose carefully between lake and river views. "Take your pick, river or lakeside. Some areas are more modern than others but all are nice. A few have water hookups," advises Angie P. regarding Fawn Meadows Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric sites are common, but full hookups are limited in the region. "Goldenrod is one of 6 campgrounds at Twin Rivers State Park. Half of this campground has electric and half has none. It is right next to lake 4 with some beach access," explains Shannon G.
Campground spacing: Some areas offer more space between sites than others. "The sites have 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," reports Alana R. about Lake Cunningham.
Weather considerations: The region experiences occasional heavy rains that can impact camping conditions. "I stayed here on a night where it rained maybe as much as an inch, and some campsites did flood. I stayed at site 104 and it ended up being a good choice because it was shaded and on higher ground," notes Sarah N.
