Best Campgrounds near Wahoo, NE

Camping options near Wahoo, Nebraska primarily center around Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area, located on the northern edge of town. This developed recreation area provides electric hookups for RVs, primitive tent sites, and several cabin rentals. Other nearby options include the Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground offering full hookups within town limits, Memphis Lake State Recreation Area about 15 miles south, and Czechland Lake Recreation Area approximately 15 miles northwest. Most campgrounds in this region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering waterfront sites for enhanced fishing access.

Nebraska state parks and recreation areas in the region require entrance permits, with Lake Wanahoo specifically requiring an NRD (Natural Resources District) permit rather than the standard state park permit. "Lake Wanahoo is a NRD controlled lake that requires a daily pass or annual pass," noted one camper who frequently visits the area. Seasonal considerations affect site availability, with summer weekends filling quickly at the more popular lakes. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though services may be reduced during winter months. Reservations are recommended during peak summer season, particularly for electric sites and cabin rentals, while some primitive areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Waterfront camping represents a significant draw in the Wahoo region, with fishing opportunities frequently mentioned in visitor feedback. Lake Wanahoo receives particular praise for its fishing quality despite being relatively new (opened in 2012). "Great fishing and can camp right along the water," shared one visitor who secured a lakefront tent site. Memphis Lake State Recreation Area offers more shade from mature trees compared to the newer Lake Wanahoo, where trees are still developing. Campers seeking quieter experiences often prefer Czechland Lake Recreation Area, which requires no entrance permit for tent camping and charges modest fees ($18/night) for electric sites. RV travelers appreciate the full hookups available at Saunders County Fairgrounds, with one visitor noting it provides "approximately 40 sites" with "full hookup for $20 per night" in a convenient downtown location.

Best Camping Sites Near Wahoo, Nebraska (106)

    1. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Ashland, NE
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 944-2523

    $25 - $475 / 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. Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Wahoo, NE
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 443-4675

    $8 - $40 / night

    "Great fishing and kayaking lake!  Bike path goes all the way around the lake. Sites are large and spaced out. I prefer the ones along the water but you have to book early to get one."

    "Lake Wanahoo is a fairly new lake in Saunders county Nebraska. The lake is part of the local NRD and was originally managed by the state parks department."

    3. Memphis Lake State Rec Area

    11 Reviews
    Ashland, NE
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 471-5566

    $10 - $35 / night

    "If you want to get away in Nebraska, this is the place. There’s no electricity or running water. The outhouses are kinda gross. There’s an awesome bar right outside the park, too."

    "Great little stocked fishing lake with sites all fairly close to the long northern shore of the lake. Redwing blackbirds, geese, and lightning bugs tucked in between the corn fields."

    4. West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday

    29 Reviews
    Gretna, NE
    20 miles
    Website
    +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."

    5. Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area

    28 Reviews
    Malcolm, NE
    22 miles
    Website
    +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."

    6. Union Pacific Cabooses — Two Rivers SRA

    8 Reviews
    Waterloo, NE
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 359-5165

    $80 / night

    "The fishing is easy in all the lakes and they have a pay fishing trout lake that nearly guarantees success. Our kid and her friends love the swimming beach."

    "Whether I was riding a bike around the paved roads. Fishing in one of the sandpit lakes they have to offer, or the river. Walk around the nature trails, or lakes."

    7. Camp A Way Campground

    31 Reviews
    Lincoln, NE
    25 miles
    Website
    +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"

    8. Platte River State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    South Bend, NE
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 234-2217

    $25 - $330 / 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."

    9. Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground

    1 Review
    Wahoo, NE
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (402) 443-5822

    "Located near downtown Wahoo. $20 per night for full hookup. Appear to be approximately 40 sites."

    10. Czechland Lake Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Wahoo, NE
    13 miles
    Website

    $18 / night

    "This is another NRD lake, and pretty well maintained. However unlike Wanhoo you don't need a pass or permit. Also the tent camping is free, and electrical is 18."

    "Czechland is a gem with 11 campsites walk-up only for $20 a night with 30/50 amp. Pay with your phone with QR code scan to pay so no need to have cash or check."

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Recent Reviews near Wahoo, NE

558 Reviews of 106 Wahoo Campgrounds


  • Susan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Bluffs Run RV Park at Horseshoe Casino

    Road to Mackinac

    Just an overnight on our way to Michigan. Yeah it's a parking lot! Visited family just in the NE side of the river. Water and electric, not a bad price. Interstate was RIGHT THERE..... but the noise of our AC downed it out! 😎 Showers were low pressure and could have been better maintained.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Lake Manawa State Park Campground

    Nice metro campground

    Large concrete pads with patio and permanently mounted mesh steel picnic table with a fire pit grill on the corner.. Lakeside locations are quite well spaced with a panoramic Lake view. small restroom and shower pair with unisex entry. Quite spartan, but relatively clean. Trees surround the campground, but none provide any campground shade. Entry gate code required, which provides some security. all amenities are available within a limited distance. Some lake activity noises during the day, and depending upon wind, some aircraft traffic, otherwise very quiet.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area Tent Campsites

    Great state rec area

    Impressive recreation area. Campsites on and off of the water, all very nice. Lots of walking and bike riding. Very woodsy feeling through the whole park and a nice bicycle trail that leaves the park and winds out to Hormel Park on the Platte River.

  • Trav S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area

    Sewer Dump Available

    This is a very cool park in Papillion, Nebraska!

    It also has a sewer dump site for $5 (if you're not camping). See the camp host to pay.

  • Travis A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Yankee hill wildlife management area

    Good over night spot

    Situated in the middle of corn fields. The WMA has a large marshy, stagnant pond, so bring mosquito repellent. The parking area is clean. There is a dumpster and vault toilet. I didnt inspect it, I'll leave that up to you. No potable water, but Lincoln Nebraska is only 17 miles away.

  • wThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Smiths Creek Recreational Area

    Perfect

    It was not far off the highway but no road noise. Great place for a free overnight camp.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Smith Creek Recreation Area

    Quick overnight stay

    We had a quick one night stay as a van camper. Parked in the stone parking area adjacent to the toilets. A single bright light lit the entire parking lot. We arrived at 9:00 and quickly set up for sleeping. It was dark, our interior car lights immediately attracted numerous bugs. Late in the evening, a vehicle can't in and did a couple of "doughnuts" in the parking lot. It was a nice place overall for a single night.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Wagon Train State Recreation Area

    Pricey!

    Nice campground with reasonable camp fees, however, they require day use fees as well, which makes it pricey. The lake does not have any water in it either. Only stayed 1 nite, but would probably not stay again.

  • Allison B.
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Pine Grove RV Park & Campground

    Fantastic campground in ideal location

    We have camped here for the past three summers and will continue to come back for as long as we can.  Word to the wise: ignore any reviews prior to July 2023. That's when the new owners took over and have been making updates and improvements from day 1. We love the friendly staff, the onsite cafe, and the beautiful pool.  The owners take great care of the pool, so our grandkids come out and swim with us whenever they can.  So. many campground pools are a bit scary, but not this one.  

    We also love the front row seat to fabulous sunsets.  Some people complain about the I-80 noise, but it really varies. We never hear it when we are inside our motorhome.  Some evenings it is pretty loud outside and others we can barely hear it. It's worth it either way because we can hop on the interstate so quickly and be in Lincoln or Omaha in a snap.  

    Love this place!


Guide to Wahoo

Camping near Wahoo, Nebraska, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Nice walking trails and facilities. Lots to do for the entire family."
  • Water Activities: Enjoy paddle boating and swimming at Platte River State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "We went paddle boating, swimming, and horseback riding."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife at Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area. One camper noted, "We saw a couple of white-tailed deer wandering through in the early morning hours."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Camp A Way Campground stated, "Everyone that works here is so friendly. They have nice shower and bathrooms along with laundry facilities."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many families enjoy the activities available for kids. One parent at West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday said, "Looked like a lot to do for the kids."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers love the spacious sites at Louisville State Recreation Area. A visitor mentioned, "The campsites are close together but the area is well kept."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or train tracks. A camper at Pawnee State Recreation Area noted, "With a large amount of active train tracks... this place is the opposite of peaceful."
  • Park Fees: Be prepared for additional fees. One reviewer at Platte River State Park Campground mentioned, "There is also a $12 park fee that you have to pay in addition to your camping costs."
  • Mosquitoes: Some areas can have a lot of mosquitoes. A visitor at Hitchcock County Nature Center warned, "The only downside is bring several bottles of bug spray, the mosquitoes are terrible!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids to enjoy. One camper at Lewis and Clark State Park Campground said, "Beautiful park, beautiful scenery and amazing playground!"
  • Plan for Activities: Choose a campground that offers various activities. A family at Two Rivers State Recreation Area mentioned, "Fun and quick trip if you’re in the Omaha area. My boys loved it."
  • Pack Snacks: Bring along snacks and drinks for the kids. A reviewer at Camp A Way Campground appreciated the "good internet" and "very helpful staff," making it easy to stay connected while enjoying family time.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday shared, "Our back-in site had a patio, fire pit and nice patio furniture."
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. One camper at Camp A Way Campground noted, "Very nice campground. Kiddo's friendly."
  • Avoid Busy Weekends: If possible, try to camp during the week to avoid crowds. A reviewer at Louisville State Recreation Area mentioned, "The campground was clean. Well maintained and it was busy."

Camping near Wahoo, Nebraska, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Wahoo, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, Wahoo, NE offers a wide range of camping options, with 106 campgrounds and RV parks near Wahoo, NE and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Wahoo, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Wahoo, NE is Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 47 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Wahoo, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Wahoo, NE.