Campgrounds near Union, Nebraska stretch along the Missouri River valley, primarily clustered within a 30-minute drive. The region features flat river bottomlands contrasted with steep loess hills. This eastern Nebraska area receives moderate rainfall of 30-35 inches annually, creating green spring and summer camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking options: Platte River State Park offers some of the best trails in southeast Nebraska with varied terrain. "There are a wealth of amazing hiking / biking trails that traverse through some amazing scenery. Just like the camping, you can pick between the less intensive paved walkways or you can walk along the hilly bluffs that contour the Platte River," notes one visitor to Platte River State Park.
Paddleboating and kayaking: Several lakes provide water recreation opportunities with rental equipment. A camper at Louisville State Recreation Area mentions that near Lake 2 "there is a small shop which has a market where basic kick knacks and firewood are available. This is also where you can rent boats like canoes, kayaks, and stand up paddleboards for hrs, half and daily rates."
Children's activities: Many campgrounds cater to families with dedicated facilities. At Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, "there are many activities from your typical hiking experience to spending the day at the water park to being able to take the family mini golfing." The park also features horseback riding, a driving range, and various sports courts.
What campers like
Well-maintained grounds: Campgrounds in the region generally receive positive reviews for cleanliness. At Victorian Acres RV Park, a camper remarked, "This one was the nicest and cleanest campground we have been to yet. Everything was freshly manicured on the grounds. Everything was very clean and no trash whatsoever anywhere."
River access: The proximity to the Platte and Missouri Rivers creates opportunities for scenic views and water activities. A visitor to Riverview Marina State Rec Area appreciated how "we camped right be the river and woke up to a beautiful sunrise. No more than a 1/2 mile outside the city, but still feels isolated."
Overnight convenience: The region serves as a practical stopping point for travelers crossing Nebraska. One camper at Victorian Acres noted, "Coming from MO, Nebraska is usually just a one night stop for us (as we head onto bigger and cooler states). We were happy to find this clean RV park near Nebraska City. Big, but quiet. Friendly staff. Homey. Green space."
What you should know
Train noise: Multiple campgrounds in the region experience significant railroad disturbances. At Louisville State Recreation Area, a camper warns: "Train noise all night." Another visitor elaborates, "The harsh part of being located here is if you are looking for any kind of spot that accommodates a flat plot, like sites 206 - 236, you are butted up against the train tracks and that train is LOUD!"
Interstate noise: Some campgrounds are affected by highway sounds. At Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, a visitor mentioned, "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise."
Site spacing: Campsite proximity varies considerably between parks. One camper at Waubonsie State Park observed, "For me this is not the greatest camping area. The sites just are to close for me as a tent camper. The could almost use some of the day use picnic area as primitive sites."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Look for parks with built-in water features. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers "a wave pool" according to reviews, while Louisville State Recreation Area features "a swim area along the beach of Lake 2" and "play inflatables for kids in the water."
Playground access: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas. At West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday, a visitor appreciated that "neighbors are close not much of your own space but there is a play ground for the kids that's wonderful!!!!!"
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning experiences. Near Riverview Marina, one camper noted: "Great Lewis and Clark interactive museum and hiking about a 5 min drive away."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose the right site size and location for your needs. One RVer at West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday warned, "We were given an inappropriate size space for the rig we stated, super narrow and we stuck over the road by 2 feet... do not stay here in sites 34 - 70 if you have a rig over 30' and dont want to touch your neighbors camper."
Accessibility: Some campgrounds provide easier access than others. At Waubonsie State Park, one RVer reported, "The road was when we visited. The workers were not the most helpful either... The campground was basic, grill, fire ring, picnic table, electric on designated sites. Needed some clean up and graveling on the pads."
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites at some parks. A visitor to Victorian Acres RV Park found: "Sites are nice with trees and vegetation but not very level. Dog park is nice though."
