The best campgrounds near Ashland, Nebraska with wildlife watching

Planning a camping trip near Ashland, Nebraska and looking to indulge in some wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 99 options in the area that cater to wildlife watching, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like Horse Creek Adventures (255 reviews), Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue (49 reviews), and Theilen Produce Gardens (20 reviews) to see what fellow campers have to say. And with amenities like showers, pet-friendly areas, and toilets, you can enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. So pack your gear, grab your binoculars, and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife watching experience!

98% (323)

Top-rated campgrounds near Ashland

Planning a camping trip near Ashland, Nebraska and looking to indulge in some wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 99 options in the area that cater to wildlife watching, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like Horse Creek Adventures (255 reviews), Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue (49 reviews), and Theilen Produce Gardens (20 reviews) to see what fellow campers have to say. And with amenities like showers, pet-friendly areas, and toilets, you can enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. So pack your gear, grab your binoculars, and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife watching experience!

98% (323)

Top-rated campgrounds near Ashland

1. Cottonwood Creek Camp

100%

(117)

26mi from Ashland · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

We have a 5 acre suburban campsite that is quiet, yet close to amenities. Located in south Lincoln between Highway 2 and the city limit, near shopping, restaurants, and breweries. Our property has a small seasonal creek with walking path through a forested area and meadow. Cottonwood Creek Camp has one RV site and one tent site. This can be a peaceful place to stay for a quick stop off or even 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 are only 5 minutes away. Disc golf and mini golf courses are 2 miles away. There is also access to the Lincoln bike trails via our residential streets. Laundry is available on site for an extra fee. Easy access off Highway 2 at the 68th/70th Street Exit, continue via Saltillo Rd. and then north on 56th St.

2. Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

99%

(87)

46mi from Ashland · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

3. Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

99%

(128)

28mi from Ashland · 19 sites · Tents, RVs

*** 2025 Season Update *** As they have put new rock on the gravel road near the property, we are potentially looking at closing our season earlier than planned. This has covered up our previous dust control, which could make it more dusty than anticipated due to higher traffic for an early harvest this year. If you are still needing a place to stay but it looks to be unavailable up to November 1st, just send me a message and we can review options. I want to ensure a positive experience. - Devlin ****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.

4. E.T. Mahoney State Park

90%

(5)

74 sites · Ashland, Nebraska

Find a diverse range of activities for the whole family at this modern Nebraska state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Platte River State Park

100%

(3)

55 sites · South Bend, Nebraska

This family favorite offers everything from pony rides to paddle boats.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

6. Magill Farms

92%

(39)

34mi from Ashland · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

This property is 110 acres all together. We have cattle that do visit the pastures but can be excluded if need be. Nice rolling hills with Oak Savannas in the low areas. Lots of great native wildlife and plants that bloom from early spring through late summer. In the Fall the leaves are amazing. There is a rough outhouse at the primitive campsite. No electricity but there is water and trash bins located at the farmstead. We do want our guests to be comfortable but this is definitely a rough camping site. You may also want to grab a beef package from us for your stay or to take along with you. Many items available for sale right at the farm. Enjoy peace, quiet, and nature at your own private 70 ac camp site!

7. Branched Oak SRA

27mi from Ashland · 31 sites

Branched Oak State Recreation Area stands out as the largest lake in eastern Nebraska, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Located just 2.5 miles north of Malcolm via S-55M, this expansive area covers an impressive 5,595 acres, with approximately 1,800 acres dedicated to water activities. Visitors flock to Branched Oak for its exceptional fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. The well-maintained campgrounds feature essential amenities such as restrooms, showers, drinking water, and four convenient dump stations. With 338 designated pad sites and plenty of room for primitive camping, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay amidst nature. In addition to the stunning lake, the recreation area offers two inviting swimming beaches, scenic hiking trails, and an equestrian campground, catering to a variety of outdoor interests. A marina on-site provides essential services, including fuel, bait, boat rentals, concessions, and a bar and grill, ensuring that all your needs are met during your visit. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Branched Oak State Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Nebraska.

8. Zooland Family Campground

969mi from Ashland · 59 sites

Zooland Family Campground in Asheboro, NC, stands out as a premier destination for families seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. This expansive 33-acre park offers a unique family-oriented atmosphere filled with a variety of activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that every guest has a memorable experience. At Zooland, you can enjoy a range of exciting amenities, including river fishing, gem mining, a thrilling jumping pillow, and an inflatable water slide. The campground is designed with clean facilities and exceptional hospitality, making it a comfortable retreat for families. Explore the natural beauty surrounding the campground, with nearby swimming holes and outdoor activities that invite you to connect with nature. After a day of fun, you can discover local restaurants and shops that add to the charm of your stay. Visit Zooland Family Campground and find out why it is consistently rated as one of the best campgrounds in the USA!

9. Lake Manawa State Park

73 sites · Council Bluffs, Iowa

Discover the allure of Lake Manawa State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

10. Wilson Island State Recreation Area

130 sites · Iowa

Discover the natural charm of Wilson Island State Recreation Area.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Waubonsie State Park

86 sites · Hamburg, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Waubonsie State Park and its array of outdoor activities.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Public campgrounds near Ashland

100%

(2)

Lakeside Campground

3.5mi from Ashland · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in E.T. Mahoney State Park

Mature trees are abundant in Mahoney. Enjoy the small lake at Little Creek. Fishing and paddle boats are available here. Check the Marina hours for paddle boat rentals.

83%

(3)

Little Creek Campground

3.6mi from Ashland · 43 sites · Tents, RVs · in E.T. Mahoney State Park

100%

(3)

Platte River Campground

8.7mi from Ashland · 55 sites · in Platte River State Park

Lake Manawa Campground

29mi from Ashland · 73 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Manawa State Park

Wilson Island Campground

36mi from Ashland · 130 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wilson Island State Recreation Area

Waubonsie Campground

43mi from Ashland · 86 sites · Tents, RVs · in Waubonsie State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

H

Hannah

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Cottonwood Creek Camp

A perfect place to stop through on our roadtrip. We were so excited to have a hot shower and clean towels!

R

Rachel

3 weeks ago

26 ft fifth wheel

With pets

1 night at Cottonwood Creek Camp

This place is amazing! Great spot just outside of town. The communal kitchen and bathroom were just what we needed for the night. Super thankful we found this place.

B

Bradley

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

Will return! Not for everyone, but great for us!!

Z

Zeke

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magill Farms

Had a great time camping here! Aaron was very attentive to any questions I had and more than happy to help

Christian

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Cottonwood Creek Camp

Aaron and Megan have a great spot in a really nice suburban neighborhood. The spot where I parked had plenty of privacy and the common area was amazing. I was able to shower, do laundry, and have a nice warm, quiet place to sit and eat. I would highly recommend this spot to anyone

D

Derek

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cottonwood Creek Camp

Upon arriving I was greeted by Aaron and was felt extremely welcomed. We had great conversation and the property is serene and the amenities are top tier. I highly suggest staying here and would love to again as well. Thank you Aaron.

D

Donna

October 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Cottonwood Creek Camp

Very nice neighborhood and wonderful space to park the camper. The bathroom and common area was very nice. The owner Aaron was very nice and informative.

D

Dustin

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Cottonwood Creek Camp

The site was very clean, exceeded all my expectations of what I thought it would be. Was very easy to get in and out of. Was a very quiet neighborhood. Would absolutely stay there again.

J

Josh

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

This spot is great! Very peaceful and nicely maintained, and the host is awesome to work with!! 10/10

Celina

October 2025

17 ft campervan

3 nights at Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

Beautiful stay! If you want gorgeous sunsets this is the place to go! Devlin was flexible and easy to get a hold of! On hipcamp the bathroom is always something I'm curious about 🤣 so here's the info- it was one porta potty for the whole place. There are quite a few sites and a good portion of them were full (even on a week night) so you ended up sharing with a lot of people. There was no toilet paper, but I never messaged Devlin to let him know so that was not his fault, sharing with that many people means there's a high chance of no to so being your own. You should also bring your own hand sanitizer as there isn't any. They had some pretty walking trails down to a river. The river seemed low so it wasn't much to look at. The stay was near a gravel road and large trucks seem to barrel down the road so if it's dry you get a whole wave of dust blowing off the road so the best campsites are going to be the ones further back off the road. I can't remember if the map has the road on it but we were in site 6 and it was on the backside away from the road for reference. All in all a good stay, nothing crazy exciting but the lots were level and mowed and the host was clear and responsive, really what more can you ask for?

Adalyn

September 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

The camping spot was private and the goats were so sweet!

D

Diane

September 2025

35 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Cottonwood Creek Camp

Beautiful area. Nice place for us to stop and take a breather and a wonderful shower. Their guest facility is beautiful. Aaron and Megan were great hosts

C

Chris

September 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Magill Farms

Exactly as advertised and just what I needed. Very peaceful.

S

Sharon

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cottonwood Creek Camp

A wonderful place to stay, with thoughtful hosts. Everything is kept clean and attractive.

Joe and Lisa

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

Great site for a quick overnight or a long weekend! Clean, organized and quiet. Devlin was responsive and supportive before and during my stay. Enjoyable stay!

Rebecca

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Cottonwood Creek Camp

Nice comfortable spot for our trip across the country! It was great having the indoor space to get a good shower and do a little work before getting back on the road. Had a little trouble with the direction from hipcamp but when we used the actual address, we got there just fine. Arrived in the dark and it was easy enough for our small rig to pull in and turn around to back up, but a bigger rig should just back in from the road.

Brittany

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

Second time at this spot and it’s perfect ! Cozy and spacious

G

Gladys

September 2025

32 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

This is my 2nd Hipcamp experience and once again very favorable. Devlin provided quick response to my few questions. We would not have found this jewel without being on Hipcamp. Spaces are spaced a bit more than most RV Parks. Had I read the descriptive I would have realized there was water for RV's at the entry, good electrical connection. Love the location, dark sky and quiet. If you enjoy gravel bicycling, plan to spend a few days in this area.

Linda

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

The campground felt quiet and private. The 5 mph speed limit kept things safe, and quiet hours at 10 p.m. meant we could actually hear the crickets at night. My dog was welcome and had plenty of room to explore on leash, which we both appreciated. Overall, this is a great spot for anyone who wants a low-key, well-kept place to pitch a tent and relax. I’d happily come back for another night under the stars.