Camping cabins near Springfield, Nebraska offer overnight options across several state recreation areas and parks. The area sits along the Platte River valley at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with predominantly flat terrain punctuated by river bluffs. Summer cabin camping conditions can be humid with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F, while spring and fall provide milder camping weather.
What to do
Lakeside recreation activities: At Two Rivers State Recreation Area, multiple lakes provide fishing opportunities beyond just riverfront access. "It's flat and easy for young kids to bike around all the different lakes(ponds). Plus the Platte river is right there too that adds a great ambient sound. Lots of cottonwood trees for shade," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails with views: The nearby Hitchcock Nature Center in Iowa features terrain quite different from the Platte River valley. "The views show you the vast farmland here and are great for sunrise and sunset! Leashed dog friendly. There are some camping spots you can hike to and some cabins as well," reports a visitor. The center sits in the distinctive Loess Hills formation.
Swimming options: When temperatures rise, multiple recreation areas offer swimming. At Memphis Lake State Recreation Area, "This is such a nice and clean campground! There were lots of mature trees to camp under, and we were also close to the water. Our campsite came with a picnic table and fire ring." The game warden regularly patrols to ensure safety.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Cottonwood Campground at Two Rivers provides direct river access. "The Cottonwood camp area lays right on the Platte River and it is beautiful watching the sunset over the water," writes one visitor. The campground features updated shower facilities and electrical hookups.
Large, shaded sites: At Memphis Lake State Recreation Area, campers appreciate the natural setting. "It is a nice spot a bit off of the main roads. Many of the tent sites allow you to camp right next to the lake. It's generally pretty quiet and people respect the 10 pm quiet hours rule," notes a visitor.
Family-friendly amenities: Cabin rentals at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park provide numerous activities for children. "This place has it all...Hiking trails, frisbee golf, horseback riding, driving range, fishing, tennis courts, river views, cabins!" Another visitor adds, "There are so many activities from your typical hiking experience to spending the day at the water park to being able to take the family mini golfing."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "We used to stop here as a midway point when driving to Colorado. We always stayed at the lodge for a night and had a pleasant time exploring the area," mentions one Mahoney State Park visitor.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some cabin areas. A camper at Eugene T. Mahoney notes, "This is a really nice state park. There are plenty to do. My son and I camped for one night... The only not so good thing about camping in this park is that it is so close to the interstate. My son was unable to fall asleep."
Rustic vs. modern options: Platte River State Park offers various accommodation types. "They have a couple of different kinds of cabins. There's a bunch of trails! The park in general is beautiful," shares one visitor. Another adds, "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees!"
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Two Rivers State Recreation Area offers multiple options. "If you are a social camper you'll enjoy meeting people and watching the kids make new friends," notes a visitor. The swimming beach is particularly popular with younger campers.
Educational opportunities: Hitchcock Nature Center provides learning experiences alongside cabin stays. "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," suggests a visitor. "The Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. At West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday, "neighbors are close not much of your own space but there is a play ground for the kids that's wonderful!!!!!" The KOA also offers cabin rentals with full amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Two Rivers State Recreation Area, site placement matters. "The campground layout is not accurate on the website when reserving spot. Great fishing. Playgrounds are old, but kids had a blast," advises one RVer.
Hookup availability: Goldenrod Campground at Two Rivers offers both electric-only and non-electric sites. "Half of this campground has electric and half has none. It is right next to lake 4 with some beach access. There are both reservable and walk up sites here," explains a camper. The reservation process requires early arrival for the waiting list.
Weather considerations: Be prepared for rain in low-lying areas. "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," warns a Goldenrod Campground visitor.
