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Best Campgrounds in Nebraska

1,910 Reviews

Nebraska's camping scene spans from established state parks to scenic lakeside areas. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground offers year-round accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals, while Platte River State Park provides additional options with yurts and glamping facilities. Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area features tent and RV sites with primitive to full-hookup options across multiple campgrounds. The region includes several KOA locations with family-friendly amenities and a range of state recreation areas with waterfront access.

Most Nebraska campgrounds provide electric hookups, drinking water, and fire rings, though availability varies seasonally. "Most sites have laundry and showers, but some parks lock bathrooms in the off-season," noted one camper. Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area and other locations maintain shower facilities and dump stations for RVs. Winter camping remains available at select locations including Camp A Way and West Omaha KOA Holiday, which operate year-round. During summer, temperatures can reach into the 90s°F, making water access particularly valuable. Many state recreation areas require park permits, and developed campgrounds typically charge $20-65 per night depending on hookup level and season.

State park campgrounds receive consistently high ratings for cleanliness and maintenance. Campers particularly appreciate Louisville State Recreation Area and Fort Kearny State Recreation Area for their accessibility and well-maintained grounds. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, visitors value the peaceful settings at lakeside campgrounds like Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area, which offers boat-in camping options. Urban-adjacent options such as Camp A Way Campground in Lincoln provide convenient access to city amenities while maintaining a camping atmosphere. One visitor mentioned that "Maskenthine Lake Recreation Area is one of our favorites with clean restrooms and showers, plus great trails for hiking or mountain biking." Train noise affects some campgrounds near rail lines, particularly those in smaller towns that offer municipal camping areas.

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Best Camping Sites in Nebraska (508)

    1. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Ashland, NE
    Website
    +1 (402) 944-2523

    $20 - $333 / night

    "Nestled between two major cities in Nebraska, you're never far away from anything you may want to do or see. RV and tent camping is obviously available with limited privacy."

    "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."

    2. Camp A Way Campground

    31 Reviews
    Lincoln, NE
    Website
    +1 (402) 476-2282

    $35 - $67 / night

    "A fun pass is require and costa about $10 but kids get ice cream, Slushies, water balloons for water wars included with that plus access to trampoline basketball, a nice jump pad, pool, indoor hot tub,"

    "Next to highway. You can hear highway but that doesn’t bother me"

    3. Platte River State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    South Bend, NE
    Website
    +1 (402) 234-2217

    $330 / night

    "We were passing through Nebraska and opted to stay the night here. The campground is new and will be even nicer when the trees are big enough to provide shade."

    "Short walk in but a wagon is provided to help unload equipment. Picnic and fire pit near the teepee."

    4. Streeter Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    Marquette, NE
    Website
    +1 (402) 694-6992

    "There's a playground nearby and several walking paths as well as a restroom. these cell service was great and the camp even has free wi-fi provided by the city."

    "Nice city park trail through the trees for a good morning walk. "

    5. Grand Island KOA

    30 Reviews
    Doniphan, NE
    Website
    +1 (402) 886-2249

    "This campground is situated near interstate 80 and surrounded by cornfields, surprise surprise for Nebraska. Nice people, clean bathrooms and well kept property."

    "The location is great and feels tucked away every though it isn't far from the highway. The staff were very helpful. I would definitely recommend!"

    6. West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday

    29 Reviews
    Gretna, NE
    Website
    +1 (402) 332-3010

    "Very close to the Nebraska crossing outlet mall! 😊"

    "The campground itself was fine and very convenient in location to vIsIt famIly."

    7. Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground

    30 Reviews
    Ogallala, NE
    Website
    +1 (308) 284-8800

    $10 - $30 / night

    "I stopped at this campsite on a cross country road trip from NY to NV, as I didn’t know anyone who resided in the great state of Nebraska. Talk about a total hidden gem!!"

    "Easy access to campsites, clean shower houses, fun walking trails with great views of the lake! Fun boating and atv activities or beach day with the family!"

    8. Fort Kearny State Recreation Area

    29 Reviews
    Kearney, NE
    Website
    +1 (308) 865-5305

    $10 - $25 / night

    "Nice camp ground with helpful gate attendants, this Nebraska park represents the conundrum of many public campgrounds."

    "Very nice stop, close but not too close to I-80. Quiet. Nice lakeside setting."

    9. Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area

    28 Reviews
    Malcolm, NE
    Website
    +1 (402) 783-3400

    $20 - $30 / night

    "My first time camping in Nebraska. Ive been to several throughout the US. Loved the spot, I was right next to the lake, great swimming access. Downside drinking water access was difficult."

    "The area is well known for being the equestrian camping area at one of the finest lakes in Nebraska. Pull through sites with full hookups, equestrian trails, and corals."

    10. Louisville State Recreation Area Campground

    29 Reviews
    Louisville, NE
    Website
    +1 (402) 234-6855

    $10 - $30 / night

    "A HUGE campground with around 250 total sites, with options ranging from walk-in camping tent-only sites to RV areas. There is a 3 decent-size lakes spread evenly across the grounds."

    "A HUGE campground with around 250 total sites, with options ranging from walk-in camping tent-only sites to RV areas. There is a 3 decent-size lakes spread evenly across the grounds."

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Recent Camping Photos in Nebraska

361 Photos of 508 Nebraska Campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Nebraska

1910 Reviews of 508 Nebraska Campgrounds

  • Nathan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2025

    Smiths Creek Recreational Area

    Nice

    Great for a day stop and stayed the night in my campervan. Was quiet with little traffic. There were a lot of flies.

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 3, 2025

    Hershey WMA Dispersed Camping

    Easy Access Off I-80

    Just a stone’s throw off I-80 … hence the 3 Stars for noise. Park right on the water. No amenities though and a 3 day stay limit. Gas and supplies just on the other side of the freeway.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 1, 2025

    Ballards Marsh State Wildlife Area

    Ballard marsh road

    Small area with 3 sites, vault toilet and hand pump for. Pretty area in the prairie and small marshy lakes.

  • granny T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2025

    Oliver Reservoir State Recreation Area

    Oliver Reservoir-beautiful setting, many sites along reservoir,

    Highly recommend. Just off 80, so convenient. we arrived in time to see the sun set over the reservoir, then saw the sunrise before heading back on the road. clean vault toilets, stocked with paper. a water spigot was nearby for filling campers, jugs, handwashing. they request that you register at the entrance, and suggest an optional $5 or $10 donation. a camp host told us the campground closes today, 10/31. but I don't see any gates. theres a dock and boat ramp. it seems like a huge area with day use areas and many campsites. We could hear some highway noise and the trains in a distance, but did not find it bothersome.

  • John C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 29, 2025

    Bowman Lake State Recreation Area

    Not bad. A county park that looks like it is still expanding.

    The park has a few camping spots but is clearly not focused on the camping aspect. It is more of a park than a campground. It has common areas with grills and pits. No bathrooms, water, or electricity. It did have a couple port-a-potties. There is a ranch/farm across the lake full of cows that not only smell, but make noise incessantly throughout the night - Won't bother a trailer or van, but was an annoyance in a tent.

  • Sheri L.
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Victorian Acres RV Park & Campground

    Very friendly people

    I was traveling as a solo female and even with arriving after dark felt safe and fine. The showers house was super warm (visiting in October) and clean. The staff was very nice and called me earlier in the day with check in info I needed since getting in late.

  • R
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Oregon Trail RV Campground

    Great location!

    Helpful email before arrival with instructions.  Extended stay by 4 nights because of the convenient location and beautiful scenery.   Will stay here when visiting from now on.

  • Tommy
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Prairie Lake State Recreation Area

    Nice small camping area.

    This recreation area is smaller but is very clean. If you're looking for a nice area to camp, trail walk, and relax on a low budget, this is a great spot.

Guide to Nebraska

Camping in Nebraska offers a unique experience with its beautiful landscapes and diverse campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Explore the trails: Many campgrounds, like Bessey Recreation Complex Campground, have walking, Jeep, and ATV trails. One camper mentioned, “Have walking, Jeep, ATV trails all over.”
  • Fishing: Campgrounds such as Long Pine State Rec Area offer great fishing spots. A review noted, “Good trout fishing from the stream.”
  • Enjoy water activities: At Calamus Reservoir, you can rent boats and jet skis. One visitor shared, “Can rent boats and jet skies. Nice swimming and fishing spots.”

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Victoria Springs State Rec Area said, “The restrooms and showers are very clean and accessible.”
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds, like Valley View Flat Campground, offer roomy sites. A happy camper remarked, “Nice big sites, you’re not packed in.”
  • Natural beauty: Campers love the scenic views and natural surroundings. A visitor at [Long Pine State Rec Area] noted, “There are some fantastic trails to hike here, some great scenery.”

What you should know

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby activities. One camper at Bessey Recreation Complex Campground mentioned, “A little noisy during the day with all the ATV traffic.”
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. A reviewer at Keller Park State Rec Area pointed out, “This park isn’t manned by the State and it’s self-check-in.”
  • Bring your supplies: Some areas are remote, so it’s wise to pack everything you need. A camper at Victoria Springs State Rec Area advised, “Make sure to bring whatever you need with you because there isn’t much in Thedford or Halsey.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Bessey Recreation Complex Campground, which has a pond for fishing. A family shared, “Nice little pond to catch a few fish.”
  • Plan for bugs: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in wooded areas. One camper at Victoria Springs State Rec Area noted, “It was very quiet other than the hum of the mosquitos!”
  • Bring games and outdoor gear: Campgrounds often have space for activities. A visitor at Long Pine State Rec Area mentioned, “Lots of tall trees surround the camping sites.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check site accessibility: Some campgrounds have tricky access for larger RVs. A reviewer at Long Pine State Rec Area said, “They are hard to get an RV into because of the slope and angle of the drives.”
  • Look for electric hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with electric options. A camper at Keller Park State Rec Area mentioned, “This campground is in a decent valley. Thus, no signal.”
  • Be ready for self-check-in: Some campgrounds operate on a self-check-in basis, so have your plans ready. A visitor at Calamus Reservoir noted, “All sites are electrical only.”

Camping in Nebraska can be a fantastic experience if you know what to expect and plan accordingly. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tent camping locations in Nebraska?

Nebraska offers excellent tent camping options across the state. Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area is highly recommended with lakeside sites providing great swimming access. COE Harlan County Lake Hunter Cove Park features dedicated tent-only sites on Nebraska's second-largest lake, making it perfect for water enthusiasts. The park offers amenities like showers, toilets, playgrounds, and a boat ramp. For those seeking a more primitive experience, South Outlet Camping provides dispersed tent sites with basic amenities like pit toilets and fire rings in a peaceful setting below the dam. Look for sites with shade trees to help with Nebraska's summer heat, and consider locations near water features for recreation opportunities.

How much does it cost to camp at private campgrounds in Nebraska?

Private campground rates in Nebraska vary based on location, amenities, and season. Grand Island KOA offers full hookup sites at competitive rates with clean facilities and a mix of shaded and non-shaded sites. Lake North provides electric hookups with lakeside sites at reasonable prices, plus access to nearby convenience stores. Generally, private campgrounds in Nebraska range from $25-45 per night for basic sites and $35-60 for full hookup sites. Many offer weekly or monthly discounts for extended stays. KOAs and other chain campgrounds tend to be at the higher end of the price spectrum but provide more amenities like WiFi, laundry facilities, and organized activities.

When is the best season for camping in Nebraska?

Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the most pleasant camping conditions in Nebraska. Many campgrounds like South Outlet Camping operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-September. Nebraska summers can be quite hot, making electric hookups valuable for RV air conditioning, as noted by campers at Karrer Park. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers but can be rainy, while fall offers cooler temperatures and changing foliage. Summer provides the most reliable weather for water activities on Nebraska's lakes and rivers. Winter camping is limited, with many facilities closing or reducing services. For the best balance of comfortable temperatures and full facility access, aim for the shoulder seasons of late May/early June or September.

Are there any state park campgrounds in Nebraska with full amenities?

Soldier Creek Campground — Fort Robinson State Park offers comprehensive amenities in northwestern Nebraska. This activity-packed park features hookups, shower facilities, and access to numerous recreational opportunities, though note that daily entry permits ($12/day) are required in addition to camping fees. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground near Ashland is another excellent option with full hookups, modern restrooms, showers, and numerous recreational facilities. Many Nebraska state parks feature electric hookups, which are particularly valuable during hot summer months. State park campgrounds typically offer water access, well-maintained facilities, and recreation options like hiking trails, fishing, and boating access points.

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