Camping in Nebraska

Craving wide-open spaces and starry nights? Look no further than Nebraska. Swap the desert dunes and mountain peaks for rolling hills and pitch a tent under a sky bursting with stars, or set up camp with the family at a state park. 

Given its stunning natural locations, you can also hike or bike through diverse landscapes, cast a line in a serene lake, or simply relax and soak in the quiet beauty of the Great Plains. Nebraska’s your ticket to a peaceful escape and lasting memories under the big sky!

Campers can choose from various campsites, including primitive sites nestled amongst the trees or family-friendly options with amenities like electrical hookups and showers. The park offers diverse activities like hiking, biking, rock climbing, fishing, and exploring the nearby Fort Robinson State Park, a historic military outpost.

Steeped in history and natural beauty, Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers a unique camping experience. This site was once an important military outpost on the Oregon Trail, and visitors can explore the restored buildings and museums to learn about its past. Camping options range from primitive sites to fully equipped campgrounds with amenities, catering to different camping styles. The park also offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the historical and natural landscape.

Spanning over 31,000 acres, Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas are a haven for water enthusiasts. These interconnected lakes provide a vast playground for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. The surrounding landscape offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, making it a perfect destination for a family getaway.

Carved by the scenic Niobrara River, Niobrara State Park is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. The park is renowned for its dramatic canyon scenery, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including bald eagles and wild turkeys. The park offers kayaking, canoeing, and hiking opportunities, allowing visitors to experience the unique beauty of the Niobrara River Valley.

Located near Omaha, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park provides a convenient escape into nature for city dwellers. The park features a picturesque lake surrounded by rolling hills, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park also boasts a network of hiking and biking trails, perfect for exploring the diverse flora and fauna.

Nebraska's capital city, Lincoln, blends urban energy with historical charm. The majestic Nebraska State Capitol, adorned with a golden dome, offers guided tours and stunning architectural features. Visitors can learn about the state's history at the Nebraska History Museum, housing exhibits on indigenous cultures, pioneer life, and the state's agricultural legacy. Nature lovers can find solace at Pioneers Park, featuring scenic walking trails, a botanical garden, and a scenic lake.

Located in western Nebraska, Scotts Bluff National Monument stands as a testament to the resilience of pioneers who traversed the Great Plains during the 19th century. The monument encompasses a series of bluffs, rising prominently from the surrounding landscape, once serving as a landmark and campsite for westward migration. Visitors can explore the area through interpretive trails, learn about the region's history at the visitor center, and witness breathtaking views of the surrounding plains.

Towering over the vast prairie grasslands in western Nebraska, Chimney Rock is a natural landmark with significant historical and cultural importance. This iconic geological formation, resembling a giant chimney, served as a navigational guide for pioneers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. Native American tribes also hold a deep reverence for Chimney Rock, weaving stories and legends around its formation.

This city boasts a world-class zoo, the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, which houses the largest indoor rainforest in the world and diverse animal exhibits. History buffs can delve into the city's past at the Durham Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits on Nebraska's rich heritage. Art enthusiasts can admire masterpieces at the Joslyn Art Museum, featuring collections spanning centuries and cultures.

Every spring, a breathtaking spectacle unfolds in Nebraska's central region - the migration of the Sandhill cranes. These majestic birds, with their elegant wingspans and distinctive calls, gather in large numbers at various locations across the state, including the Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center near Grand Island. Visitors can witness the cranes feeding, preening, and engaging in courtship displays, experiencing the wonder of nature's migration patterns firsthand.

Channel your inner Stonehenge enthusiast at Carhenge, a quirky art installation near Alliance. This unique "car-henge" features 38 automobiles arranged in a circular formation, mimicking the iconic British monument. The installation, created by Jim Reinders in 1987, serves as a tribute to his father and has become a popular roadside attraction. 

Embark on an ecological adventure at the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for diverse birdlife and a vital wetland ecosystem. Spot over 300 species of birds, including majestic sandhill cranes, playful otters, and elusive pronghorns, and explore the refuge's network of trails, traversing through grasslands, marshes, and woodlands, offering opportunities to observe the region's diverse flora and fauna.

Take this opportunity to explore iconic bombers, fighters, and reconnaissance jets that played a pivotal role in history. Explore the museum's exhibits, delving into the evolution of air warfare and space exploration. Climb aboard historic aircraft to experience their cockpit firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of the technology and engineering advancements in aviation.

The birthplace of Arbor Day and a haven for nature enthusiasts, explore the expansive grounds featuring diverse trees, shrubs, and breathtaking floral displays. Learn about the importance of trees and their role in the environment through interactive exhibits and educational programs. Take a guided tram tour or explore the scenic trails, immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature. Attend workshops and events throughout the year, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

At this renowned location, known for its exceptional collection of fossilized plants and animals preserved from a volcanic eruption millions of years ago, explore the visitor center to learn about the park's diverse fossil record and witness the painstaking process of excavation and interpretation. Embark on guided tours through the fossil sites, marveling at the petrified remains of ancient camels, rhinos, and other prehistoric creatures. Hike scenic trails weaving through the park's scenic landscape, offering stunning views and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Kayak or canoe down the scenic Niobrara River, winding through dramatic canyons and lush vegetation. Hike or bike along scenic trails, offering stunning vistas of the valley and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including bald eagles and bighorn sheep. Explore ancient petroglyphs left by indigenous tribes on the sandstone cliffs, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage

Explore the restored fort buildings, including barracks, officers' quarters, and a hospital, offering a glimpse into the lives of soldiers stationed there. Visit the fascinating Fort Robinson Museum, showcasing exhibits on the fort's history, the American Indian wars, and the story of Crazy Horse, a Lakota Sioux warrior who surrendered at the fort. Hike or bike along scenic trails within the park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Planning your dream RV trip shouldn't feel like navigating an uncharted wilderness. With an OHI membership, you gain access to a comprehensive RV trip planner, empowering you to search and compare thousands of campgrounds across the US and Canada. Find the perfect spots to suit your needs, whether you seek serene nature escapes or action-packed adventures. As the leading advocate for private RV parks and campgrounds, OHI doesn't just provide a powerful search engine; membership unlocks exclusive member guides and newsletters packed with expert tips, campground reviews, and insightful recommendations for crafting the perfect itinerary. 

Maximize your experience with member-only benefits and discounts at participating campgrounds, saving you money and enhancing your stay. And don't just plan your RV trip, unlock the ultimate RV travel companion with an OHI membership. Visit ohi.org to learn more and start planning your dream adventure today!