Camping near Valparaiso, Nebraska centers around several public lakes managed by both state and local Natural Resources Districts. Located in the glacial till plains of eastern Nebraska at approximately 1,600 feet elevation, the area experiences hot summers with nighttime temperatures often dropping 20-30 degrees below daytime highs. Most campsites near Valparaiso provide basic amenities while water recreation forms the primary attraction.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: Lake Wanahoo's restrictions create ideal conditions for paddlers. "Great fishing and kayaking lake! Bike path goes all the way around the lake," notes one camper at Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area. The lake's no-wake zones particularly benefit non-motorized watercraft.
Night sky viewing: Rural locations around Valparaiso offer excellent stargazing opportunities. At Timber Point Wetland, a visitor reported, "The stars were spectacular! There's some black cows nearby that kind of stare at you with no emotion." Minimal light pollution creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
Disc golf: Several recreation areas maintain disc golf courses with varying difficulty levels. "We went in the off season so we had a lot of space to ourselves," commented a visitor to Branched Oak Lake about the amenities, which include an established disc golf course with multiple basket positions.
What campers like
Fishing accessibility: Memphis Lake offers bank fishing with convenient access from campsites. "Many of the tent sites allow you to camp right next to the lake," says a reviewer at Memphis Lake State Recreation Area. The small lake supports bass, catfish, and panfish populations.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides solitude at normally busy locations. At Wildwood Lake, one visitor mentioned, "Pulled in fairly late. No problem finding a spot in the dark. The place was pretty empty due to the cold weather I'm sure." Fall and spring weekdays typically see minimal campground occupancy.
Multi-use trails: Several areas offer connected trail systems for walking, running and biking. "It is a nice spot a bit off of the main roads," notes a Memphis Lake camper, with trails connecting camping areas to fishing spots and day-use facilities.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Nebraska requires separate vehicle permits for out-of-state visitors at state recreation areas. "Cost- $12 for out of state plates and $15 for a site without amenities is steep," notes a camper at Area Three Campground. Daily vehicle permits run $8-14 depending on residency.
Drinking water access: Water availability varies significantly between recreation areas. At Branched Oak Lake, a visitor noted, "Downside drinking water access was difficult." Most primitive sites lack running water, requiring campers to fill containers at central locations.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roadways. "The highway is so close you can see the cars going by. Its extremely loud and constant highway sounds," reports a tent camper at Camp A Way.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several recreation areas maintain playground equipment for children. "Very kid friendly with tons of activities. Nice pool & hot tub. Clean laundry facilities and they even have a dog park," reports a visitor to Camp A Way Campground. Most playgrounds are located near camping areas for easy supervision.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming beaches provide safer water recreation for children. "There is a clean beach area, a boat and kayak landing area and many children parks," mentions a Branched Oak Lake visitor. Swimming areas typically include shallow water sections with gradual entry points.
Activity options: Some parks offer structured activities beyond standard camping. "My son and I camped for one night. We went paddle boating, swimming, and horse back riding," writes a visitor to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground. Activity availability varies seasonally with most options running May through September.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Some recreation areas position dump stations inconveniently far from camping areas. "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," notes a Lake Wanahoo camper. Planning dump station use before departure prevents unnecessary maneuvering.
Off-peak availability: RV sites typically remain available midweek even during summer months. "Late October tent camping- low around 19f... we seemed to be the only souls in the place," reports an Area Three camper. Sunday through Thursday occupancy rates average below 50% except on holiday weeks.
Electric hookup variations: Power amperage differs between campgrounds and even within the same recreation area. "We had full hook ups and a level site," mentions an Area One Campground visitor about their experience at Branched Oak Lake. Many sites offer 30-amp service while newer campgrounds provide 50-amp options.
