Cabin rentals near Union, Nebraska range from basic structures to deluxe accommodations within several park systems in the region. The Loess Hills area features unique geological formations visible from many campgrounds, with seasonal rental patterns showing higher demand from April through October when temperatures average 65-85°F during summer months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Platte River State Park offers extensive trail systems for all skill levels. "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees! On top of the excellent camping offered, they have a wealth of amazing hiking / biking trails that traverse through some amazing scenery," notes Jared J.
Water activities: Try paddleboats and kayak rentals at the lakes within cabin campgrounds. "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," explains Tony B. about recreation options.
Wildlife observation: Visit the hawk observation tower at Hitchcock County Nature Center where migratory birds are monitored seasonally. "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," recommends Matt S.
What campers like
Natural features: Waubonsie State Park cabin campers appreciate the unique Loess Hills landscape. "We took one of the more scenic trails and took us over the top of some of those beautiful Loess Hills. I still believe it is a great hiking park, and is only a hour away from Omaha for us," shares Tony B.
Off-season tranquility: Winter cabin rentals offer quieter experiences with reduced crowds. "This place has a lot to offer anyone. They have Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc. During the winter they even over snowshoeing events," notes Pat V. about Hitchcock Nature Center.
Family amenities: Camp A Way Campground provides extensive recreational facilities beyond basic cabin accommodations. "This destination was so fun! Sites are shaded and spacious. Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more! Super cute place to stay with family," says Samantha S.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabin rentals require advance booking, particularly during peak season. "This is a very nice state park. There are plenty to do. My son and I camped for one night. We went paddle boating, swimming, and horse back riding," explains Maricris C. about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
Cabin differences: Basic cabins provide minimal amenities while luxury options include more comforts. "This park offers a couple of different kinds of cabins. There's a bunch of trails! The park in general is beautiful," explains Jordan H. about Platte River State Park.
Highway noise: Some cabin locations experience road noise from nearby highways. "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," notes Jennifer M. about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Memphis Lake State Rec Area provides ranger programs during summer months. "The game warden drove around often checking to see if anyone needed anything and people were following the rules. The reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because there weren't any scenic walking trails that I found, but there was fishing and a small playground if you have children," explains Whitney R.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas near cabin accommodations. "There is a play ground for the kids that's wonderful! Neighbors are close not much of your own space but there is a play ground for the kids that's wonderful," Megan E. shares about West Omaha KOA.
Rainy day options: Several cabin locations offer indoor recreation when weather prevents outdoor activities. "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!" shares Charlie B. about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Cabin layouts vary significantly across campgrounds. "We were given an inappropriate size space for the rig we stated, super narrow and we stuck over the road by 2 feet. They had larger sites all around us but were told we could not change," notes Stacy M. about West Omaha KOA Holiday.
Parking considerations: Many cabins have limited parking nearby requiring equipment transport. "We go every year, tents not allowed yet. plenty of cabins, water park and gun range. Horse rides available," mentions Molly M. about Platte River State Park.
Seasonal preparation: Water systems at some cabin locations are winterized. "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. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," explains David L. about Memphis Lake State Rec Area.