Nebraska's eastern valley region offers diverse camping options beyond traditional state parks, with several RV parks and campgrounds within 30 minutes of Valley. Located in the Platte River valley at approximately 1,120 feet elevation, this area features flat to gently rolling terrain with seasonal weather that brings hot summers and cold winters. Camping facilities near Valley provide alternatives to the glamping pods described elsewhere, with many sites offering electrical hookups and shower facilities for weekend getaways.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Cunningham Campground provides shoreline fishing and non-motorized boating. "This lake is one of the very few in Omaha that offers camping. And definitely of all types rv, and tent," notes a camper. After recent renovations, the lake has been restocked with fish.
Hiking trails: The Hitchcock County Nature Center offers challenging terrain just across the Missouri River. A visitor shared, "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below." The three-mile trail system features elevation changes unusual for the region.
Archery range: Outdoor target practice is available at Hitchcock Nature Center. "As a family we go to Hitchcock a few times a year for the hiking and the archery range they have on-site. Both are excellent and a nice escape from the city!" one reviewer mentioned.
Water activities: Branched Oak Lake offers boat rentals and designated swimming areas. A camper noted, "There's a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals."
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area offers quiet camping during off-peak times. "It's been a few years since we stayed at Lake Wanahoo, but we decided to stay there over our anniversary weekend. The place is still great, and this time of year it was very quiet and peaceful," shared a recent visitor.
Accessible nature: While not as secluded as glamping near Valley, Nebraska, Platte River State Park provides natural features within reach. "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees!" explains a reviewer who adds, "they have a wealth of amazing hiking/biking trails that traverse through some amazing scenery."
Riverside views: Cottonwood Campground at Two Rivers SRA offers riverside sites. "The Cottonwood camp area lays right on the Platte River and it is beautiful watching the sunset over the water," writes one camper, highlighting the natural beauty that rivals glamping options in the area.
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses appeal to those seeking comfort without premium glamping prices. A Lake Cunningham visitor reported, "Love the new East lots. Full access with concrete pad. Tons of room between spots. Mini store on the property to buy ice, firewood, and food from."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer. A West Omaha KOA visitor advised, "We always stop here when we're traveling on I-80. It's the perfect distance for us to overnight before moving on. Clean campground, showers/bathroom. Courteous employees. Lots of activities for the kids. We've stopped on a couple of holidays & a reservation is a must!"
Highway noise: Pine Grove RV Park and several other campgrounds sit near I-80. "Don't expect peace & quiet. This place is sandwiched in between I-80 and the I-80 Speedway," warns one camper, though many note the noise isn't noticeable inside RVs.
Limited shade: Newer facilities like Lake Wanahoo lack mature trees. "Lake Wanahoo is a fairly new lake in Saunders county Nebraska. Unfortunately when the lake and campground were built they planted saplings, so during the hot months there is no shade to be found," explains a visitor, contrasting with the more wooded glamping sites near Valley.
Site spacing: Campground density varies widely. At Camp A Way, a camper observed, "Very nice campground. Kid friendly with tons of activities. Nice pool & hot tub. Clean laundry facilities and they even have a dog park."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Camp A Way Campground offers numerous children's amenities. "This destination was so fun! Sites are shaded and spacious. Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more! Super cute place to stay with family," shared one visitor.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. At Hitchcock, a camper noted, "There's a hawkwatch tower. Lots of information about Hawks and nature conservation. We love doing their extra classes."
Swimming options: Several locations offer water recreation beyond glamping locations. "Middle Oak Creek campground has a row of 10-12 electrical spots that are perfect for shore fishing, kayak launch, lakeside views! Nice playgrounds at both camp areas," explained a Branched Oak Lake visitor.
Accessibility considerations: Some sites require hiking in. At Hitchcock Nature Center, "The campgrounds are a little way away from the road and more secluded so they're very quiet. You do have to pack your stuff down a bit of a steep hill."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on rig size and hookup needs. "The sites for big rigs are not 3 axle friendly. The site provided was not long or wide enough," cautioned one Pine Grove RV Park visitor about certain sites.
Seasonal considerations: Water access may be limited in winter months. Many campgrounds shut off water hookups during freezing weather but maintain electrical service year-round.
Dump stations: Location varies by campground. At Lake Wanahoo, "To get to the dump station you have to leave the campground, get on the highway and drive to the opposite side of the lake to the day use area."
Proximity advantages: Platte River State Park Campground offers quick access to nearby attractions. A reviewer noted, "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."
