Are you an adventurous traveler looking to explore the beauty of Nebraska’s great outdoors? Look no further! Our expert team has scoured the state to bring you the top fifteen best campgrounds that Nebraska offers.
So, whether you are into fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the serene tranquility of nature, we’ve got you covered. From the stunning vistas of Chadron State Park to the picturesque Platte River State Park, you will surely find your perfect camping spot in Nebraska.
So grab your tent, pack your bags, and get ready for a camping experience you will never forget!
From Scenic Lakesides to Rustic Retreats: Here is a list of the 15 best camping in Nebraska that will take you back to the world of nature – away from the daily hustle and bustle of everyday life:
1. Branched Oak State Recreation Area
Branched Oak State Recreation Area is one of Nebraska’s largest state parks, spanning over 5,000 acres.
Located near Lincoln, this park has several outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, horse trails, and hiking, to make your trip a happening one.
There are both primitive and modern campsites available, as well as cabins for rent. Don’t worry, as each of the restrooms with well-equipped with coin-operated showers, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, flushing toilets, and many more to go!
This campground also has a wonderful playground and a beach area for the children to enjoy. After all, why should the adult only have all the adventures?
Another highlight of this recreation area is its sandy beach, which offers plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing to turn it into a memorable tour for a lifetime.
If you are visiting during the fall, check out the park’s pumpkin patch, where you can pick your own pumpkins and enjoy a range of family-friendly activities.
2. Chadron State Park
Located in the rugged Pine Ridge region of western Nebraska, Chadron State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Nebraska’s wild landscapes.
The park is home to miles of hiking and biking trails and numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. Several campsites are available, including ones with electrical hookups and those without.
If you’re looking for a bit more comfort, you can rent one of the park’s cozy cabins. They have covered everything from picnic tables to fire grills, comfort stations with hot baths, and a playground for the children!
Furthermore, the park even offers several other recreational activities, including horseback riding, kayaking, sand volleyball courts, fishing, and picnicking. So, you don’t even have a second to feel bored about anything!
3. Indian Cave State Park
Indian Cave State Park is a stunning outdoor destination located in southeast Nebraska. This park is mainly known for its rugged beauty, deep ravines, steep bluffs, and dense forests.
The park is named after a nearby cave that Native Americans once used as a shelter. One of the highlights of this park is its extensive network of hiking and biking trails.
The park boasts over 20 miles of trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry hikes.
For those looking to explore the park’s waterways, there are several opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Besides, as the park is situated on the banks of the Missouri River, it offers an amazing and stunning view of the countryside. Hard to forget once spotted!
So, whether you are a seasoned camper or just looking to spend a night in nature – Indian Cave State Park is definitely worth giving a shot at!
4. Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area
Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for those who love water activities. Located in western Nebraska, this park is situated around Lake Ogallala – a reservoir on the North Platte River.
The park covers over 5,000 acres and includes a 320-acre lake. As a result, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, paddling and any other activities in the clear blue waters of the lake.
You can even take a stroll along the scenic hiking trails to witness some of nature’s wonderful creations. And to make things even more interesting, there’s even a designated area for water skiing and wakeboarding!
If you want to spend the night, there are about 82 campsites with electricity and water hookups, public and private restrooms with potable water, coin-operated shower cubicles, etc.
Last but not least, make sure to stick around for the stunning sunsets over the lake – they are truly breathtaking. Something you will never want to miss!
5. Fort Kearny State Historical Park
Created in 1848, Fort Kearny State Historical Park has a unique blend of outdoor recreation and educational opportunities.
The park is named after Fort Kearny, which was a historic outpost along the Oregon Trail in the mid-1800s. Today, you can explore the reconstructed fort buildings and learn about the area’s fascinating history.
But that’s not all – Fort Kearny State Historical Park even offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking on the Platte River.
And, of course, there are campsites available for tents and various RV parks in Nebraska. So you can stay overnight and fully immerse yourself in this historic and beautiful park.
6. Louisville State Recreation Area
Situated on the south bank of the Platte River in Cass County – this 192-acre Louisville State Recreation Park comes with five sandpit lakes and ample opportunities for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
The park also has several hiking trails, including a nature trail that takes you through the woods and along the lake. So, if you are looking for a bit more adventure, don’t worry; there’s also a zip line course on site.
Campsites are available for both tents and RVs, and there are also cabins and lodges for rent if you are looking for a more comfortable stay. And if you are visiting during the summer, check out the swimming beach – it’s a great way to refresh and cool off on a hot day!
7. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
Nestled on 700 acres along the Platte River and the rolling hills near Ashland – Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is one of the most beautiful and relaxing places to camp. From horseback riding and hiking to mini-golf and a water park – this park has everything to make your trip count!
One of the most unique attractions in the park is the Peter Kiewit Lodge, a stunning lodge that comes with comfortable rooms and cabins for rent. Plus, remember to check out the park’s water park, which features several water slides and a wave pool!
If you are looking for a more rustic camping experience, plenty of tents, rustic cabins, and RV sites are also available. And with so much to do in the park, you will have a great time no matter your interests.
8. Mormon Island State Recreation Area
Mormon Island State Recreation Area is a hidden gem located in central Nebraska. The park is situated along the Platte River and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
There are both primitive and modern campsites available, as well as several kinds of cabins for rent. And if you’re looking for a bit of history, you can visit the nearby Mormon Island State Historical Park, commemorating a historic stop along the Oregon Trail.
The park covers over 300 acres and includes a 35-acre lake perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. However, the real highlight of Mormon Island State Recreation Area is its natural beauty – home to various wildlife, including bald eagles, pelicans, and sandhill cranes.
Lastly, the sunsets over the Platte River are spectacular, so be sure to bring your camera!
9. Niobrara State Park – Nebraska State Parks Camping
Occupying about 1640 acres of scenic landscapes to the west of the Niobrara village– this Niobrara State Park comes with several kinds of outdoor activities and an array of wildlife, including coyotes, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and many more to go!
One of the most popular activities in the park is canoeing or tubing down the Niobrara River – a great way to take in the beautiful scenery and spot some of the local wildlife.
And with several campsites available for tents and RVs, you can stay overnight and give yourself away in the area’s natural beauty with full comfort and privacy.
The park also offers several unique attractions, including the Niobrara State Park Buffalo Cookout, which takes place every Saturday evening during the summer months. So if you are on the lookout for a one-of-a-kind camping experience, Niobrara State Park is definitely worth considering!
10. Pawnee State Recreation Area
Home to the second-largest lake in the Salt Valley – the Pawnee State Recreation Area is a great destination for anglers and water sports enthusiasts.
Located northwest of the Emerald, this park offers several kinds of boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities in its 740-acre reservoir.
Several campsites are available, including ones with electrical hookups and those without.
The lake is fully stocked up with several kinds of fish, including bluegill, largemouth bass, white bass, walleye, and catfish, with the list going on!
And if that wasn’t enough, this recreation area is even home to a series of wildlife creatures, such as small game, deer, waterfowl, etc.
If you are looking for adventure along with private campgrounds in Nebraska, you can always try out the Pawnee State Recreation Area for something more!
11. Platte River State Park
Platte River State Park is another popular destination for both camping and hiking. Situated two miles west of Louisville on the southern bluffs of the Platte River, this 519-acre park offers several miles of scenic hiking trails, including the popular Quarry Trail.
The park covers over 400 acres and even has cabins for rent – equipped with heating and air conditioning for year-round comfort.
However, one of Platte River State Park’s main draws is its unique geological features. The park is home to several limestone formations, including the Platte River Narrows, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
And while you are there in the camper park, make sure to check out the park’s swimming pool, which features a water slide and a waterfall.
12. Prairie Oasis Campground & Cabins
Prairie Oasis Campground & Cabins is a family-owned and operated campground located at Exit 342 on I-80 in Henderson, Nebraska.
The campground offers a peaceful and secluded setting – making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from it all.
There are both primitive and modern campsites available, as well as cabins for rent. The cabins come equipped with all the amenities of the home, including kitchens, bathrooms, and air conditioning.
However, the biggest highlight of these Prairie Oasis Campground & Cabins is certainly the beautiful lake, which is stocked up with several kinds of fish and even offers plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing as well.
Some other recreational activities at the campgrounds include paddling, badminton, horseshoes, sand volleyball, ladder ball, etc.
Although the Nebraska camping reservations are usually optional here, it is however recommended to do so!
13. Fremont State Recreation Area
Fremont State Recreation Area is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located three miles west of Fremont, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, water skiing, and swimming.
Several campsites are available, ranging from primitive tent sites to full-service RV sites – having modern restrooms with drinking water, showers, toilets, firepots, etc.
And in case you are looking for a bit of adventure, you can always rent a canoe or kayak to explore the park’s marvelous waterways.
14. Double Nickel Campground
Double Nickel Campground is a family-owned campground located near Waco, Nebraska. The campground covers over 20 acres and includes a scenic pond that is perfect for fishing and swimming.
Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking on the nearby trails or simply relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the campground.
And when it’s time to settle in for the night, there are plenty of campsites to choose from, including primitive sites, deluxe cabins, and RV sites.
Each of the cabins is well-equipped with heating and air conditioning for year-round comfort. One of the main draws of Double Nickel Campground is its proximity to several nearby attractions, including the Lincoln Children’s Zoo and the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer.
So, if you are looking for a quiet and relaxing experience in Nebraska city camping all the way through, Double Nickel Campground is worth trying!
15. Lake Minatare State Recreation Area
Lake Minatare State Recreation Area is a popular destination for anglers and water sports enthusiasts. Located near Scotts Bluff National Monument and Chimney Rock, this park offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming in its 2,158-acre lake.
In addition to the water-based activities, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking on the park’s many trails and picnic spots.
Plus, they have more than 100 non-pad sites and amenities, including modern restrooms with potable water, vault toilets, showers, laundry facilities, picnic shelters, and fire pits to ensure you have a comfortable stay throughout your entire trip!
Conclusion
Camping is an excellent way to experience Nebraska’s natural beauty and escape daily life’s stresses.
Whether you are looking for a quiet retreat or an action-packed adventure, these 15 best campgrounds in Nebraska have got you covered.
From fishing and hiking to swimming and boating, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Nebraska national forest camping today and prepare to make some unforgettable memories in the great outdoors!
