Glamping close to Spencer, Nebraska offers recreation areas with cabin accommodations throughout the Missouri River region. Most cabins feature concrete pads, picnic shelters, and direct access to Lake Francis Case. Seasonal availability varies between recreation areas, with some facilities closing water-based amenities during colder months while maintaining cabin access.
What to do
Explore waterfront trails: North Point Recreation Area features a 1.2-mile North Shore Path loop trail suitable for all hiking levels. "Beautiful and peaceful setting on the Missouri River. If you pick a site on the water you can enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Missouri River and the rolling hills of the southern shore," notes Sarah S.
Fishing opportunities: Platte Creek Recreation Area provides both shore fishing and boat access for anglers. "Nice campground along the river with tent and full hookup sites," reports Katie L.
Wildlife viewing: Buryanek Recreation Area offers observation points where campers can watch local wildlife. "Big sites. A lot of room between sites. Well maintained dirt road to access recreation area. Spacious campground," says James P.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Armour Lions Park features well-spaced sites with concrete slabs. "Great little city park. Showers/restrooms were clean. I know 5 were concrete slabs, the rest gravel," explains Ila R.
Beach access: Many campsites at Buryanek Recreation Area include private paths to water. "There were stairs down from our campsite to a gravel beach. Water was warm in Lake Francis Case on the Missouri River," shares Leslie B.
City convenience: Carney Park offers amenities with proximity to town services. "We had a great one night stay when we were passing through O'Neil on our way to South Dakota. Cute town, ok bath house and a cute play park with swings, etc. Quiet at night," states Carissa W.
What you should know
Site selection factors: When booking at North Point Recreation Area, check site specifications carefully. "When you are making reservations check site size because there are different lengths. Campground is well maintained," advises N I.
Access road conditions: Some recreation areas require driving on unpaved surfaces. Buryanek Recreation Area requires "several miles of minimally maintained dirt road (with some big hills) to get there," according to Scott P.
Payment systems vary: Lions Park Armour uses donation boxes with conflicting information. "It's a little confusing in price/paying. There is a box that says $10 donation. A sign that says $15 donation. The donations go towards the park," notes Ila R.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: North Point Recreation Area offers multiple family-friendly amenities. "Camp site was near beach, fishing dock and playground for the kids!" reports Rebekah M.
Playground access: Lakota Youth Development - Tipi Stays provides cultural experiences combined with modern facilities. Family-friendly amenities include drinking water access and modern restrooms with shower facilities.
Quieter camping periods: Visit mid-week for more space and fewer crowds. "Although the park was full when we visited (July) we had plenty of space on either side of us and it was surprisingly quiet given that the camp was full," shares Sarah S. about North Point Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site hookup information: Carney Park provides water and electrical connections at reasonable rates. "Water and electric with pad and picnic tables and trees for $20! Also some tent sites. Nice place for an evening or morning walk to stretch legs around rodeo arena, between baseball fields and then around and small pond," advises lee's freelance M.
Electrical connections: Check electrical boxes before setting up at Armour Lions Park. "The electrical boxes are so buggy and cobwebby and dusty that it's hard to find a properly grounded working electric box," warns Lucky C.
Dump station access: North Point Recreation Area offers sanitary dump facilities though seasonal closures may affect availability. "Open year round but Oct 1–April 30 water sourced amenities may be shut off," explains N I.
