Platte River State Park and Waubonsie State Park offer yurt camping options near Union, Nebraska, where the landscape is characterized by rolling hills and proximity to both the Missouri and Platte rivers. The region sits at approximately 1,070 feet elevation with a continental climate of hot summers and cold winters. Seasonal considerations affect campsite availability, with most facilities operating fully between April and October when temperatures range from 65-85°F.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Platte River State Park features numerous hiking trails suitable for different 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," reports Jared J. who visited the park.
Fishing at local lakes: Duck Creek Recreation Area provides excellent fishing opportunities directly from the shoreline. "Fishing is great right off the bank. NRD permit required. Lots of sites but majority are on top of the hill away from the water," notes A H. who camped there. The area is known for being recently developed with new facilities.
Loess Hills exploration: The unique Loess Hills formation can be explored at Hitchcock County Nature Center, offering views of the Missouri River valley. "Hitchcock is smack dab in the loess hills which is one of only two places in the world with the hill formations. The other place is in China," explains Matt S. who frequently camps in the area.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Campers appreciate the privacy found at some parks near Union. "Enjoy the 4 tent sites. They are spread apart enough that your not on top of each other. Lots of wood to find on the ground," notes Erik M. about Platte River State Park.
Clean facilities: Waubonsie State Park maintains well-kept restroom facilities that campers consistently praise. "The bathrooms and shower were clean. Water is easily accessible. The park is small, and we didn't find much to do other than a few hikes," reports Danni A. who stayed in the non-hookup area.
Wildlife viewing: The area around Union offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Been coming to this lake for years. It's a beautiful setting, right in the middle Loess Hills in sw Iowa. The fishing has always been good here," explains Tony B. about Pony Creek Co Park, noting the natural beauty of the area despite limited camping facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds near Union experience seasonal or flood-related closures. "This park is right off the Missouri river, and everytime there is flooding this places gets shelled. We had some major flooding here 2019, and it appears this park is still closed," warns Tony B. about Haworth City Park.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds in the area are located near interstate highways, which can affect the camping experience. "Don't expect peace & quiet. This place is sandwiched in between I-80 and the I-80 Speedway. Even w/ full hookups it's a bit overpriced," cautions Annaliese M. about Pine Grove RV Park.
Weather preparation: The region can experience severe weather, particularly during spring and summer. "We stayed for only a night while passing though. The campgrounds were very clean, sites well maintained bathroom and showers were clean as well. Only complaint I have is there was a major storm that rolled though," shares Eileen H. about West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreation options for children. "This site is great for any size family. The range of different camping options and amenities is incredible. The facilities are well maintained, the staff is friendly and helpful. Everything is nicely spread out on the grounds," shares Sandra O. about the West Omaha KOA.
Nature education programs: Look for parks with educational opportunities. "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping," explains Lynn G. about Hitchcock Nature Center, adding "make sure to talk to the rangers!"
Wildlife awareness: Waubonsie State Park campers should be prepared for wildlife encounters. "There are signs in the bathrooms warning of the raccoons. These signs are not exaggerating. We had a raccoon at our campsite trying to steal our food while we were there, like the raccoon was less than 10 feet from humans during mid-day," warns Danni A.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should carefully choose sites based on their rig size. "The sites for big rigs are not 3 axle friendly. The site provided was not long or wide enough. The electrical box, water and sewer are placed too far to the rear of the site for a big rig to make a wide enough turn," cautions Ray R. about Pine Grove RV Park.
Dump station availability: Check for dump station access when planning your trip. "Did not stop to Camp!!, only dumped my tanks and filled up water. Wish I would've stayed. Looks like a very well done out-of-the-way and quaint park. $20 for dumping, or camping and dumping, seven dollars for tent campers," notes AUDREY S. about Weeping Water Campground.
Yurt camping alternatives: If Union, Nebraska yurt camping options are limited or booked, consider RV sites with full hookups. "Very nice campground. Kid friendly with tons of activities. Nice pool & hot tub. Clean laundry facilities and they even have a dog park," reports Tracy A. about Camp A Way Campground near Lincoln, an alternative to traditional yurt camping near Union.
