The Ultimate Guide to Nebraska Camping

Nebraska is home to some of the best outdoor experiences in the country, so it's no wonder why people travel from near and far to stay at our campsites. Here's your guide to 15 must-stay campgrounds across the state. 

Let's Go Camping

Platte River State Park

Platte River State Park | Nebraska Tourism

Ready for an outdoor family adventure? Come explore the Platte River Basin at Louisville’s Platte River State Park. Match your favorite style of camping with full hookup campsites, cozy vintage cabins or luxurious glamping cabins.

Niobrara State Park

Niobrara State Park|Krause, Johansen / Nebraska Tourism

With 120 acres of free range horse riding and basic equestrian camping, horse lovers adore Niobrara State Park.

Memphis Lake State Recreation Area

Go camping at Memphis Lake State Recreation Area. Boaters, anglers and hikers alike will love the opportunities at this scenic destination. There is a small camping fee depending on your preferred style of camping and all sites are on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park  

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park | Rick Neibel / Nebraska Tourism

For year-round fun, head to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park near Ashland. Stay at a campsite or cabin and enjoy seasonal amenities such as the water park in summer and the ice-skating rink in winter.

Summit Lake State Recreation Area

Summit Lake State Recreation Area is perfect for hunting, fishing, hiking, boating and camping.

Louisville Lakes State Recreation Area

Louisville Lakes State Recreation Area | Rick Neibel / Nebraska Tourism

Calling all water-lovers! With five sandpit lakes and an array of camping amenities, the 192-acre Louisville Lakes State Recreation Area in Louisville is the ultimate camping destination for those looking to hit the water.

Windmill State Recreation Area

With six lakes and excellent picnicking facilities, Windmill State Recreation Area draws campers for first-rate angling and family picnics

Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas

Lake McConaughy | Rick Neibel / Nebraska Tourism

Hit the water at the state’s largest reservoir at both Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas near Ogallala. With year-round campsites and 30,000 acres of water, these recreation areas are teeming with outdoor possibilities.

Fort Kearny State Recreation Area

With hiking trails, a swimming beach and over 100 campsites, Kearney’s Fort Kearny State Recreation Area is perfect for your family getaway.

Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area

Sutherland Reservoir | Nebraska Tourism

With four boat ramps, two swimming areas and a nine-hole golf course, Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area near Sutherland is the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation.

Mormon Island State Recreation Area

Modern campers will love the swimming beaches and fishing at Mormon Island State Recreation Area near Grand Island.

Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area

Scout's Rest | Nebraska Tourism

Stay the weekend on an adventure-filled camping trip at the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Recreation Area, located right next door to the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park. Here, enjoy fishing, guided trail rides and kayak and canoe rentals.

Lake Maloney State Recreation Area

Just south of North Platte, Lake Maloney State Recreation Area offers fishing, wakeboarding, wildlife viewing and camping year-round.

Smith Falls State Park

Smith Falls State Park | Emilie Bouvier / Nebraska Tourism

Calling all campers and water sports enthusiasts, Smith Falls State Park is the place for you. Camp in sight of the spectacular waterfalls and Niobrara River. Then hit the water for kayaking, canoeing and tubing.

Indian Cave State Park

Indian Cave State Park

Stay at Indian Cave State Park for living history demonstrations, awe-inspiring vistas of the Missouri River and excellent hiking and biking opportunities  — plus fantastic fall foliage if you’re visiting in October.