Camping in Nebraska: Best Nebraska Campgrounds 2024

United States
—
Nebraska

95% (1394 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Nebraska

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Indian Cave State Park

167 campgrounds

Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

119 campgrounds

E.T. Mahoney State Park

120 campgrounds

Platte River State Park

125 campgrounds

Under $50

99%

(176)

Andersen's Rustic Farm Paradise

2 sites · RVs, Tents360 acres · Blue Hill, NE

The Lazy AA Land & Catttle Company is a multi-generational family farming operation located between Hastings and Blue Hill, Nebraska. Fields, and cattle pastures surround a very rustic yard site of farm machinery and cattle and horse pens Learn more about this land:45 Minutes SOUTH of Interstate 80. Close to Hwy 281. 3-5 miles of gravel road travel to location depending on route. If there is rainfall please call for directions. GPS is accurate but most direct route from Highway 281 can be muddy and alternate route recommended. Family cattle farm and row crops open to campers for stop overs. Area is very open and fields and pastures have minimal trees. Dispersed/Primitive Pasture Camping areas have tree cover/shade available if desired. Plug-in/services areas are at the farm yard site which has Agriculture Farm Equip/Cattle/Horse pens and vary based on equipment/livestock locations. (not scenic). Power/Water hydrants in the yard site/Restrooms are available at the main house and campers are welcome to use. Will work with campers to make sure they are comfortable

99%

(73)

Cottonwood Creek Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Lincoln, NE

We have a 5 acre suburban paradise that is quiet, yet close to amenities. Located in south Lincoln near shopping, restaurants, and breweries. Our property has a small seasonal creek with walking path through meadows and forested area. Cottonwood Creek Camp has a RV site and tent site. This can be a peaceful place to stay during Husker game-day weekends. We are 6 minutes from Southpoint mall which offers a shuttle to Memorial Stadium. Super Target, Aldi's and many other stores 5 minutes away. Disc golf and mini golf courses 2 miles away. There is also access to the Lincoln bike trails via residential streets. Laundry is provided for an extra fee. Easy access off Highway 2 at the 68th/70th Street Exit, via Saltillo Rd. and then 56th St.

BNR Acres Nebraska

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Eagle, NE

Nestled in a tranquil wooded area, just 3.5 miles from Eagle or 8.5 miles from Lincoln, our semi-private camping site offers a perfect escape into nature for those seeking solitude and adventure. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of rustling leaves, this serene location provides an ideal backdrop for a restful retreat or an outdoor experience. The campsite features spacious, flat areas suitable for tents allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Enjoy the convenience of access to clean water and fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. The semi-private setting ensures that while you can connect with nature, you also have a sense of privacy to unwind and recharge. Take time to explore the walking trails that wind through the trees, perfect for birdwatching or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

Peaceful Prairie Campsites

20 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · NE

Visit us and discover why Hipcamp named this property the best Hipcamp to visit in Nebraska for the past three years. Located within 2 miles from Hwy 71, we're easy to find, easy to love, and easy to leave, according to hundreds of guests who have left positive recommendations... Peaceful Prairie Campsites consists of 200+ acres of prairie pasture bordering the south side of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Under the care of third generation steward, Lisa Betz-Marquez, the beautiful bluffs feature a stunning backdrop to a those seeking a private and peaceful experience, birding, wildlife-spotting, or an adventure-seeking hike. Rustic Tent sites (allowing cars, vans, rooftop tents, truck campers, and motorcycles, but not RVs or pull-behind trailers) are located directly on the prairie. The prairie is a fragile environment. To preserve its beauty and health, please ensure that if you are in a pull-behind trailer or an RV, you book an RV site. We appreciate your cooperation. RV sites (all offering 50 amp electricity) in a rustic designated area on crushed concrete near our corral, are literally within steps of the prairie. Delicious underground water and a repurposed water tank converted to a funky outdoor camp shower is conveniently on site for all campers. All sites offer immediate foot access to hiking at various levels of challenge, including the south side of our nation's Scotts Bluff National Monument. Our 34-year-old sweetheart horse Tigger, and her donkey pal Martha, are free ranging the area. Both enjoy meeting campers, however, they can be placed in another area if you would rather they didn't wander by for conversation. A small group of yearling cattle are also at home on the prairie in summer months. Prairie guests have relished the feeling of having the place to themselves to enjoy the majesty of the landscape, the magic of our starry night skies and the soulful communion with the land. Lisa is the fourth generation of her family to live on Valley View Farm, located directly south of the prairie. Her family has been steward of these lands since 1925. Lisa is a member of a pioneer family. Ancestor, Martin Gering, came to the valley in 1887. As an early investor in the fledgling town, the town of Gering was named for him. If you're a history buff, ask Lisa to tell you more...

Potters Pasture

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Brady, NE

Potters Pasture campground is located across the road from 1200+ acres of the best mountain biking, & hiking in the state of Nebraska. There are over 36 miles of trails to keep you exploring the ridges, valleys, and single track trails. The campground at Potters has electrical and water hookups for camping and newly installed Star Link internet. There are two gates to enter the property with the larger gate located to the North of the main entrance. Enjoy your adventure!

12 top campgrounds in Nebraska

100%

(7)

Potters Pasture

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Brady, NE

Potters Pasture campground is located across the road from 1200+ acres of the best mountain biking, & hiking in the state of Nebraska. There are over 36 miles of trails to keep you exploring the ridges, valleys, and single track trails. The campground at Potters has electrical and water hookups for camping and newly installed Star Link internet. There are two gates to enter the property with the larger gate located to the North of the main entrance. Enjoy your adventure!

BNR Acres Nebraska

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Eagle, NE

Nestled in a tranquil wooded area, just 3.5 miles from Eagle or 8.5 miles from Lincoln, our semi-private camping site offers a perfect escape into nature for those seeking solitude and adventure. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of rustling leaves, this serene location provides an ideal backdrop for a restful retreat or an outdoor experience. The campsite features spacious, flat areas suitable for tents allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Enjoy the convenience of access to clean water and fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. The semi-private setting ensures that while you can connect with nature, you also have a sense of privacy to unwind and recharge. Take time to explore the walking trails that wind through the trees, perfect for birdwatching or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

Cottonwood Creek Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Lincoln, NE

We have a 5 acre suburban paradise that is quiet, yet close to amenities. Located in south Lincoln near shopping, restaurants, and breweries. Our property has a small seasonal creek with walking path through meadows and forested area. Cottonwood Creek Camp has a RV site and tent site. This can be a peaceful place to stay during Husker game-day weekends. We are 6 minutes from Southpoint mall which offers a shuttle to Memorial Stadium. Super Target, Aldi's and many other stores 5 minutes away. Disc golf and mini golf courses 2 miles away. There is also access to the Lincoln bike trails via residential streets. Laundry is provided for an extra fee. Easy access off Highway 2 at the 68th/70th Street Exit, via Saltillo Rd. and then 56th St.

Peaceful Prairie Campsites

20 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · NE

Visit us and discover why Hipcamp named this property the best Hipcamp to visit in Nebraska for the past three years. Located within 2 miles from Hwy 71, we're easy to find, easy to love, and easy to leave, according to hundreds of guests who have left positive recommendations... Peaceful Prairie Campsites consists of 200+ acres of prairie pasture bordering the south side of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Under the care of third generation steward, Lisa Betz-Marquez, the beautiful bluffs feature a stunning backdrop to a those seeking a private and peaceful experience, birding, wildlife-spotting, or an adventure-seeking hike. Rustic Tent sites (allowing cars, vans, rooftop tents, truck campers, and motorcycles, but not RVs or pull-behind trailers) are located directly on the prairie. The prairie is a fragile environment. To preserve its beauty and health, please ensure that if you are in a pull-behind trailer or an RV, you book an RV site. We appreciate your cooperation. RV sites (all offering 50 amp electricity) in a rustic designated area on crushed concrete near our corral, are literally within steps of the prairie. Delicious underground water and a repurposed water tank converted to a funky outdoor camp shower is conveniently on site for all campers. All sites offer immediate foot access to hiking at various levels of challenge, including the south side of our nation's Scotts Bluff National Monument. Our 34-year-old sweetheart horse Tigger, and her donkey pal Martha, are free ranging the area. Both enjoy meeting campers, however, they can be placed in another area if you would rather they didn't wander by for conversation. A small group of yearling cattle are also at home on the prairie in summer months. Prairie guests have relished the feeling of having the place to themselves to enjoy the majesty of the landscape, the magic of our starry night skies and the soulful communion with the land. Lisa is the fourth generation of her family to live on Valley View Farm, located directly south of the prairie. Her family has been steward of these lands since 1925. Lisa is a member of a pioneer family. Ancestor, Martin Gering, came to the valley in 1887. As an early investor in the fledgling town, the town of Gering was named for him. If you're a history buff, ask Lisa to tell you more...

Andersen's Rustic Farm Paradise

2 sites · RVs, Tents360 acres · Blue Hill, NE

The Lazy AA Land & Catttle Company is a multi-generational family farming operation located between Hastings and Blue Hill, Nebraska. Fields, and cattle pastures surround a very rustic yard site of farm machinery and cattle and horse pens Learn more about this land:45 Minutes SOUTH of Interstate 80. Close to Hwy 281. 3-5 miles of gravel road travel to location depending on route. If there is rainfall please call for directions. GPS is accurate but most direct route from Highway 281 can be muddy and alternate route recommended. Family cattle farm and row crops open to campers for stop overs. Area is very open and fields and pastures have minimal trees. Dispersed/Primitive Pasture Camping areas have tree cover/shade available if desired. Plug-in/services areas are at the farm yard site which has Agriculture Farm Equip/Cattle/Horse pens and vary based on equipment/livestock locations. (not scenic). Power/Water hydrants in the yard site/Restrooms are available at the main house and campers are welcome to use. Will work with campers to make sure they are comfortable

Food For Rest Farm

5 sites · Lodging, Tents80 acres · Ponca, NE

We are Audrey and John Dutton. Our tiny houses are on land that has been in the family for over 100 years. The big yellow house is called the Heidy House because it was homesteaded by my husbands great great grandparents Eli Lincoln Heidy. Our passion is to heal the land and people. Bringing the two back to restoration through our Creator.

98%

(82)

Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

19 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Syracuse, NE

****50/30/20 amp hookups at each RV Site. *** City life from Lincoln and Omaha can feel a little tight sometimes. Little Rivers Edge is a wonderful spacious campground for the perfect weekend getaway being only 30 minutes down the road. Just a mile outside of Syracuse gives you all the convenience of the town without any of the crowded feeling. So...light a fire and play in the river! We hope you enjoy our little piece of heaven and meet some friends along the way.

99%

(77)

Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

2 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Pickrell, NE

Shepherd’s Rest is a non profit goat and sheep rescue located on 13 acres of land adjacent to the scenic Indian Creek. In addition to the rescue goats and sheep on property, we have abundant wildlife including deer, turkey, quail and red Fox. The camping area is private and cannot be seen from the house or road. You can find information and pictures on our website shepherdsrestrescue.com. Be sure to check the website for special events including goat yoga classes. We are excited to have you visit our special property!

98%

(26)

Rock Creek Retreet Center

1 site · RV, Tent12 acres · Davey, NE

We have a very cool .5 mile nature trail that goes through an amazing tree line leading back to a viewing area with an amazing, magical giant Cottonwood Tree. Just completed a meditation labyrith that you'll want to catch around the time of a sunset! We also have chickens, horses, cats and dogs to visit while you are here. There is also an orchard, creeks, and beautiful sunrises and sunsets to enjoy! Not to mention the beautiful night sky! (Please note: The horses we foster are here August - May. They spend the summer at a non-profit kids camp in Ashland.) We also have a picnic table and campfire site for your use.

98%

(55)

Seven Pines Ranch River Retreat

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1270 acres · Seneca, NE

At the heart of the largest intact prairie grassland on the planet in the Nebraska Sandhills, Seven Pines Ranch hosts self-contained RV and tent camping along the Middle Loup River near Seneca. Great for kayaking (Two-Hour Kayak Adventures available), tubing, summer wading, fishing and abundant wildlife, the night skies are phenomenal. The area is designated as an international dark sky reserve. The camp amenities include water, firewood and an authentic outhouse on site. There’s plenty of open space for your pets to run. We only book one at a time, so you have the whole campsite to yourself.

93%

(38)

Omaha Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Ashland, NE

Small family campground (35 feet or less in length) near Omaha Nebraska with interstate access (I-80, Exit 426) offering extended stay site availability. Rural setting offers peace and quiet at the end of the day and a campground tailoring to the traveling professional. NO concrete all rural and natural with limestone roads. 50/30/20Amp service and water at all sites with weekly tank dumps if needed.

78%

(9)

Memory Lane Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Crawford, NE

Learn more about this land:We have the best sunrises and sunsets western Nebraska can offer! Great hiking and walking to Lovers Leap and Saddle Rock Buttes! Nice walk to downtown Crawford.

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(73)

Cottonwood Creek Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Lincoln, NE

We have a 5 acre suburban paradise that is quiet, yet close to amenities. Located in south Lincoln near shopping, restaurants, and breweries. Our property has a small seasonal creek with walking path through meadows and forested area. Cottonwood Creek Camp has a RV site and tent site. This can be a peaceful place to stay during Husker game-day weekends. We are 6 minutes from Southpoint mall which offers a shuttle to Memorial Stadium. Super Target, Aldi's and many other stores 5 minutes away. Disc golf and mini golf courses 2 miles away. There is also access to the Lincoln bike trails via residential streets. Laundry is provided for an extra fee. Easy access off Highway 2 at the 68th/70th Street Exit, via Saltillo Rd. and then 56th St.

BNR Acres Nebraska

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Eagle, NE

Nestled in a tranquil wooded area, just 3.5 miles from Eagle or 8.5 miles from Lincoln, our semi-private camping site offers a perfect escape into nature for those seeking solitude and adventure. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of rustling leaves, this serene location provides an ideal backdrop for a restful retreat or an outdoor experience. The campsite features spacious, flat areas suitable for tents allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Enjoy the convenience of access to clean water and fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. The semi-private setting ensures that while you can connect with nature, you also have a sense of privacy to unwind and recharge. Take time to explore the walking trails that wind through the trees, perfect for birdwatching or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

Peaceful Prairie Campsites

20 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · NE

Visit us and discover why Hipcamp named this property the best Hipcamp to visit in Nebraska for the past three years. Located within 2 miles from Hwy 71, we're easy to find, easy to love, and easy to leave, according to hundreds of guests who have left positive recommendations... Peaceful Prairie Campsites consists of 200+ acres of prairie pasture bordering the south side of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Under the care of third generation steward, Lisa Betz-Marquez, the beautiful bluffs feature a stunning backdrop to a those seeking a private and peaceful experience, birding, wildlife-spotting, or an adventure-seeking hike. Rustic Tent sites (allowing cars, vans, rooftop tents, truck campers, and motorcycles, but not RVs or pull-behind trailers) are located directly on the prairie. The prairie is a fragile environment. To preserve its beauty and health, please ensure that if you are in a pull-behind trailer or an RV, you book an RV site. We appreciate your cooperation. RV sites (all offering 50 amp electricity) in a rustic designated area on crushed concrete near our corral, are literally within steps of the prairie. Delicious underground water and a repurposed water tank converted to a funky outdoor camp shower is conveniently on site for all campers. All sites offer immediate foot access to hiking at various levels of challenge, including the south side of our nation's Scotts Bluff National Monument. Our 34-year-old sweetheart horse Tigger, and her donkey pal Martha, are free ranging the area. Both enjoy meeting campers, however, they can be placed in another area if you would rather they didn't wander by for conversation. A small group of yearling cattle are also at home on the prairie in summer months. Prairie guests have relished the feeling of having the place to themselves to enjoy the majesty of the landscape, the magic of our starry night skies and the soulful communion with the land. Lisa is the fourth generation of her family to live on Valley View Farm, located directly south of the prairie. Her family has been steward of these lands since 1925. Lisa is a member of a pioneer family. Ancestor, Martin Gering, came to the valley in 1887. As an early investor in the fledgling town, the town of Gering was named for him. If you're a history buff, ask Lisa to tell you more...

Andersen's Rustic Farm Paradise

2 sites · RVs, Tents360 acres · Blue Hill, NE

The Lazy AA Land & Catttle Company is a multi-generational family farming operation located between Hastings and Blue Hill, Nebraska. Fields, and cattle pastures surround a very rustic yard site of farm machinery and cattle and horse pens Learn more about this land:45 Minutes SOUTH of Interstate 80. Close to Hwy 281. 3-5 miles of gravel road travel to location depending on route. If there is rainfall please call for directions. GPS is accurate but most direct route from Highway 281 can be muddy and alternate route recommended. Family cattle farm and row crops open to campers for stop overs. Area is very open and fields and pastures have minimal trees. Dispersed/Primitive Pasture Camping areas have tree cover/shade available if desired. Plug-in/services areas are at the farm yard site which has Agriculture Farm Equip/Cattle/Horse pens and vary based on equipment/livestock locations. (not scenic). Power/Water hydrants in the yard site/Restrooms are available at the main house and campers are welcome to use. Will work with campers to make sure they are comfortable

Potters Pasture

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Brady, NE

Potters Pasture campground is located across the road from 1200+ acres of the best mountain biking, & hiking in the state of Nebraska. There are over 36 miles of trails to keep you exploring the ridges, valleys, and single track trails. The campground at Potters has electrical and water hookups for camping and newly installed Star Link internet. There are two gates to enter the property with the larger gate located to the North of the main entrance. Enjoy your adventure!

Star Hosts in Nebraska

99%

(70)

Food For Rest Farm

5 sites · Lodging, Tents80 acres · Ponca, NE

We are Audrey and John Dutton. Our tiny houses are on land that has been in the family for over 100 years. The big yellow house is called the Heidy House because it was homesteaded by my husbands great great grandparents Eli Lincoln Heidy. Our passion is to heal the land and people. Bringing the two back to restoration through our Creator.

Andersen's Rustic Farm Paradise

2 sites · RVs, Tents360 acres · Blue Hill, NE

The Lazy AA Land & Catttle Company is a multi-generational family farming operation located between Hastings and Blue Hill, Nebraska. Fields, and cattle pastures surround a very rustic yard site of farm machinery and cattle and horse pens Learn more about this land:45 Minutes SOUTH of Interstate 80. Close to Hwy 281. 3-5 miles of gravel road travel to location depending on route. If there is rainfall please call for directions. GPS is accurate but most direct route from Highway 281 can be muddy and alternate route recommended. Family cattle farm and row crops open to campers for stop overs. Area is very open and fields and pastures have minimal trees. Dispersed/Primitive Pasture Camping areas have tree cover/shade available if desired. Plug-in/services areas are at the farm yard site which has Agriculture Farm Equip/Cattle/Horse pens and vary based on equipment/livestock locations. (not scenic). Power/Water hydrants in the yard site/Restrooms are available at the main house and campers are welcome to use. Will work with campers to make sure they are comfortable

Cottonwood Creek Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Lincoln, NE

We have a 5 acre suburban paradise that is quiet, yet close to amenities. Located in south Lincoln near shopping, restaurants, and breweries. Our property has a small seasonal creek with walking path through meadows and forested area. Cottonwood Creek Camp has a RV site and tent site. This can be a peaceful place to stay during Husker game-day weekends. We are 6 minutes from Southpoint mall which offers a shuttle to Memorial Stadium. Super Target, Aldi's and many other stores 5 minutes away. Disc golf and mini golf courses 2 miles away. There is also access to the Lincoln bike trails via residential streets. Laundry is provided for an extra fee. Easy access off Highway 2 at the 68th/70th Street Exit, via Saltillo Rd. and then 56th St.

Potters Pasture

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Brady, NE

Potters Pasture campground is located across the road from 1200+ acres of the best mountain biking, & hiking in the state of Nebraska. There are over 36 miles of trails to keep you exploring the ridges, valleys, and single track trails. The campground at Potters has electrical and water hookups for camping and newly installed Star Link internet. There are two gates to enter the property with the larger gate located to the North of the main entrance. Enjoy your adventure!

Peaceful Prairie Campsites

20 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · NE

Visit us and discover why Hipcamp named this property the best Hipcamp to visit in Nebraska for the past three years. Located within 2 miles from Hwy 71, we're easy to find, easy to love, and easy to leave, according to hundreds of guests who have left positive recommendations... Peaceful Prairie Campsites consists of 200+ acres of prairie pasture bordering the south side of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Under the care of third generation steward, Lisa Betz-Marquez, the beautiful bluffs feature a stunning backdrop to a those seeking a private and peaceful experience, birding, wildlife-spotting, or an adventure-seeking hike. Rustic Tent sites (allowing cars, vans, rooftop tents, truck campers, and motorcycles, but not RVs or pull-behind trailers) are located directly on the prairie. The prairie is a fragile environment. To preserve its beauty and health, please ensure that if you are in a pull-behind trailer or an RV, you book an RV site. We appreciate your cooperation. RV sites (all offering 50 amp electricity) in a rustic designated area on crushed concrete near our corral, are literally within steps of the prairie. Delicious underground water and a repurposed water tank converted to a funky outdoor camp shower is conveniently on site for all campers. All sites offer immediate foot access to hiking at various levels of challenge, including the south side of our nation's Scotts Bluff National Monument. Our 34-year-old sweetheart horse Tigger, and her donkey pal Martha, are free ranging the area. Both enjoy meeting campers, however, they can be placed in another area if you would rather they didn't wander by for conversation. A small group of yearling cattle are also at home on the prairie in summer months. Prairie guests have relished the feeling of having the place to themselves to enjoy the majesty of the landscape, the magic of our starry night skies and the soulful communion with the land. Lisa is the fourth generation of her family to live on Valley View Farm, located directly south of the prairie. Her family has been steward of these lands since 1925. Lisa is a member of a pioneer family. Ancestor, Martin Gering, came to the valley in 1887. As an early investor in the fledgling town, the town of Gering was named for him. If you're a history buff, ask Lisa to tell you more...

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(3)

Platte River State Park

South Bend, Nebraska

90%

(5)

E.T. Mahoney State Park

Ashland, Nebraska

90%

(5)

Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

Indian Cave State Park

Barada, Nebraska

Chadron State Park

Chadron, Nebraska

Fort Robinson State Park

Crawford, Nebraska

Wilson Island State Recreation Area

Iowa

Chief White Crane Recreation Area

South Dakota

Ponca State Park

Ponca, Nebraska

Camping in Nebraska guide

Overview

Smack in the heart of the Midwest, Nebraska is characterized by large expanses of prairie, massive lakes and reservoirs, and more than its fair share of unusual rock formations. It’s a great place to head if you want to feel like nobody else is around you, as most of the Nebraska population is concentrated in cities such as Omaha and Lincoln. While the many state parks and recreational areas certainly draw crowds on summer weekends, Nebraska has a certain stillness about it that attracts those seeking a quiet camping experience.

Where to go

The Nebraska Panhandle

Northwestern Nebraska's sparsely populated panhandle is home to a mix of wide-open expanses of grasslands and unusual geologic features, a couple of which—namely Scotts Bluff and Agate Fossil Beds—have been preserved as national monuments by the National Park Service. Popular camping areas include Chadron State Park and Toadstool Geologic Park, which gets its name for its mushroom-shaped rock formations.

Central Nebraska

Central Nebraska is characterized by a mix of expansive grasslands and pioneer-era sites, with plenty of ways to experience the great outdoors. The Sandhills area is home to the Niobara National Scenic River, a popular spot to kayak and innertube in the hot summer months. Other highlights include the Massacre Canyon Monument, which marks the site of a battle between the Sioux and Pawnee people. Many of the region’s lakes and reservoirs also have campgrounds, including the adjacent Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas, as well as the Victoria Springs State Recreation Area and Medicine Creek State Recreation Area.

Eastern Nebraska

Much of Nebraska's best camping is in the northeastern corner of the state, owing largely to its proximity to the Missouri River—Indian Cave State Park is a particularly fun spot to explore. Birders should check out DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, which provides a rest area for ducks and geese during their fall migration. Eastern Nebraska is also a great place to learn about the Indigenous people of the region, particularly in Niobrara, home to the Ponca Tribal Museum and the Ponca Educational Trail and Earthlodge. Ponca State Park’s developed and primitive camping make for great boating, swimming, and wildlife spotting.

Omaha Surrounds

Nebraska's closest thing to a big city, Omaha offers a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions, from the botanical displays and natural areas at the Lauritzen Gardens to the Joslyn Art Museum, which features works from the likes of Titian and Renoir. Omaha is also a good base for getting to state parks along the Platte River, including Mahoney State Park and Platte River State Park.