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rich M.
Guide
GuideGrand Island KOA
Great staff
Nice shady spot. Wi fi cell and pizza
Best Campgrounds in Nebraska
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
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.
Best Camping Sites in Nebraska (519)
1. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground
47 ReviewsAshland, NEWebsite+1 (402) 944-2523$25 - $485 / 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. Streeter Park Campground
33 ReviewsMarquette, NEWebsite+1 (402) 694-6992"Nice city park trail through the trees for a good morning walk. "
"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."
3. Grand Island KOA
34 ReviewsDoniphan, NEWebsite+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!"
4. Camp A Way Campground
32 ReviewsLincoln, NEWebsite+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"
5. Platte River State Park Campground
31 ReviewsSouth Bend, NEWebsite+1 (402) 234-2217$35 - $340 / 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."
6. Fort Kearny State Recreation Area
32 ReviewsKearney, NEWebsite+1 (308) 865-5305$15 - $30 / 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."
7. Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area Campground
31 ReviewsOgallala, NEWebsite+1 (308) 284-8800$20 - $60 / 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. West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday
29 ReviewsGretna, NEWebsite+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."
9. Louisville State Recreation Area Campground
30 ReviewsLouisville, NEWebsite+1 (402) 234-6855$15 - $35 / 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."
"I am sorry 😔 but I have nut yet been to any of Nebraska's Camping grounds your's well be the first."
10. Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area
28 ReviewsMalcolm, NEWebsite+1 (402) 783-3400$25 - $35 / 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."
Recent Camping Photos in Nebraska
292 Photos of 519 Nebraska Campgrounds
Matthew B.
Lincoln Park
Avery R.
Recharge Lake Campground
Lisa
Peaceful Prairie Campsites - Gering, Nebraska
Melissa P.
Hershey Wildlife Management Area
Shannon G.
Calamus Reservoir
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Sutherland State Rec Area
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Sandy Channel State Rec Area
Luke R.
Potters Pasture
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Burbach Park
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Box Elder Canyon WMA
Molly K.
Sharps Outfitters Campground
Recent Reviews in Nebraska
2057 Reviews of 519 Nebraska Campgrounds
Jon W.
ScoutBuckley Park Campground
Nice place to camp
There are two different locations for camping. At this park, one is Newark, and has water. And electric hookups and really good shape, but the trees are still small. And no shade, the other is older. The electricity in some spots don't work, but has lots of shade.Still very nice.There are hydrants scattered throughout the older side, but not at the sites. There's a dump station at both the older and the newer area.
- PPaula K.Guide
Firefly Meadows
Just maybe Ok
(1st) Firefly Meadows & Wood River Motel & RV is the same place. Got site 26 a pull thru, all sites in that area are pull Thru with electric water Sewer and No Shade. All are dirt & grass, and this is why it got a 2 rating(very uneven ground) Staff seamed friendly. With long term people and off the road there maybe been 12 sites filled. It was a quite place. Roads where rock but not dusty. There was a bunch of rabbits around and they were not skidish I didn't check any of the amenities. Before We started trip I checked area out for it was about the limit of Our daily travels. And this seemed the best, for a sleep over it works
aspoon77GuideSteer Creek Campground
Beautiful and Remote
Camped overnight on June 6. We were racing the sun on the way in and drove a decent amount in the dark. Lots of winding, bumpy roads through the sandhills. It was beautiful, though. Decent amount of people were at the campground, but had no problem finding a spot. Windy on the way in, but the campsite had a good amount of tree cover, so it was not an issue overnight. Few bugs, not too noticeable. Stars were incredible on a clear night. Toilets were well kept and clean enough. Decent amount of privacy, trees provide good coverage. Connection was not great, but consistent 1-2 bars with Verizon. Very solid spot.
- Deanna S.Scout
Pine Grove RV Park & Campground
Great campground
We stayed here March - June this year. The staff was always friendly and helpful, and there have been many upgrades done to the park. Would be happy to stay there again if we’re back in the area.
A C.GuideLong Pine State Rec Area
Clean toilets!
You’re close enough to the creek to cool off during the hot day. The vault toilets are very clean!! The parking lot is busy during the day but mostly cleared out in the evening. You could hear some highway traffic during the night and some wildlife.
- JJay H.
TravelerCedar View Campground — Lake McConaughy
Clean simple state park camping
Nice clean state park campground on Lake McConaughy. Many sites, all level and not too close to each other. Decent bathroom and shower building. We pull a small Hiker Trailer square-drop trailer and had no issues.
The campground hosts-- one near us and another close to the shower area-- were very hospitable and helpful. Overall, not bad and fairly close to North Platte (to the East) the Chimney Rock area (to the West) or obviously Lake McConaughy.
When we arrived, we discovered that sites must be reserved online in advance. We arrived right at 5 PM when the entry office closes, but a very friendly office helper stayed late to help us obtain a Nebraska park permit and then reserve the site itself.
- MMarc L.Traveler
Thedford City Park
Simple Easy Clean Quick Stay
I love these small town free RV campgrounds. This one has a donation box. Our 41 foot 5W for perfect could take 45 foot. Only one water spigot is not positioned well but you can fill fresh tank and be fine...no dump station...16 miles away at Nebraska Natl Forest.. T Mobile worked good....good grocery store, Pizza Shop, and gas station....If you have time go River floating. Four 30 amp spots and plenty of parking and a nice well kept public park. Several trains go by but not horrible noise.
Rob R.
RangerNebraska Tailwaters
Unique and interesting
I wanted to stay somewhere in Nebraska so I chose this location. Interesting setup with all sites in a row. Very nice setup with long sites. Dump station right outside the campground and nice view of the river. Sweet camp host, shower and power at each site.
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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