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The best camping in Nebraska with campfires

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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.

97% (865) 1,647 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Nebraska

Potters Pasture

1. Potters Pasture

96%
(116)
Brady, NE · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Potters Pasture Campground sits directly across the road from 1,200+ acres of premier mountain biking and hiking terrain—some of the best in Nebraska. With over 36 miles of trails, guests can explore scenic ridges, valleys, and flowing single-track routes right outside the campground. The campground offers electrical and water hookups, plus newly installed Starlink internet, making it easy to stay connected while enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re here to ride, hike, or camp, Potters Pasture is an ideal basecamp for your adventure. There are two gated entrances to the property, with the larger gate located north of the main entrance for easy access. Come camp, explore, and enjoy your adventure at Potters Pasture.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

2. Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

99%
(147)
Syracuse, NE · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
***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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Camp A Way

3. Camp A Way

100%
(11)
Lincoln, NE · 45 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located at the crux of Interstate 80 and Highway 34 in Lincoln, Nebraska, Camp A Way is the best-loved, year-round campground in the area. For over 50 years, Camp A Way has been the leader in providing the best guest experiences and amenities.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Platte River State Park

4. Platte River State Park

100%
(3)
State park in Nebraska · 55 sites
This family favorite offers everything from pony rides to paddle boats.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
E.T. Mahoney State Park

5. E.T. Mahoney State Park

90%
(5)
State park in Nebraska · 74 sites
Find a diverse range of activities for the whole family at this modern Nebraska state park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Tiny Home Alley Delight

6. Tiny Home Alley Delight

Omaha, NE · 1 site
Get cozy and settle into this secluded romantic little bungalow. This tiny home has an open concept with a dash of old cabin feel. Enjoy a good nights rest on the clean memory foam mattress that features an electric winch to raise and lower the bed. Outside you can you can enjoy BBQ and an evening by the fire pit with complete privacy. The space This tiny home features a queen size bed that is hung by rope. The winch will lower and raise the bed to the ceiling to provide more available space for activities. A working space table that folds down from the wall that includes a comfortable 3-way chair that can be converted to a lounge sofa or to a comfy little cot that sleeps 1 person. A loft sits above the kitchenette that the kids and/or you short kings and queens will be able to lay your head down for a good nights rest on the memory foam padded bedding. Guest access You will have private access to the tiny home property from the alley behind the main little brick home. The parking lot can fit up to 2 compact cars along with free street parking. The property is completely fenced off with exception of the driveway. *This tiny home is located on the same property as the main little brick house but only accessible via the alley. Please do not disturb guests at the main house address that is 6227 Parker St. Other things to note Although the unit has a bath tub, the water heater is a limited size and not designed to fill the tub with hot water. This water heater will only support quick showers. I recommend spacing out quick showers for multiple guests. To add, the fixtures on the tub are just for design. They do not operate. The fixtures for the shower head bucket are located directly above the bath fixtures located on the wall. They can sometimes be hidden by shower curtain. This is a low flow system that pours out of a bucket. It’s a relaxing old fashioned way of showering. Please do not have expectations of a high pressure shower head you may be accustomed.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

7. Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

99%
(88)
Pickrell, NE · 2 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Elkhorn Shores Campground

8. Elkhorn Shores Campground

Elkhorn, NE · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Relax and recharge at this beautiful park next to the Elkhorn River! Elkhorn Shores offers you a home away from home in West Omaha. Experience the small town charm of Elkhorn, Ne with all the excitement of the city just minutes away. RV, Glamping, and Tent Sites nestled against the Elkhorn River, perfect for a weekend getaway or stay the whole season! Spend a day at the beach, try Tubing the River or catch a movie on the big screen under the stars! We can't wait to welcome you to The Shores! Discover the unique charm of Elkhorn Shores, a serene campground nestled alongside the picturesque Elkhorn River in West Omaha. This hidden gem offers a perfect blend of small-town tranquility and easy access to the vibrant city life, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers and urban explorers alike. At Elkhorn Shores, you can choose from spacious RV and tent sites that provide a peaceful escape, whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay. Enjoy a day at the beach, where you can relax by the water or take part in exciting activities like tubing down the river. As the sun sets, gather with friends and family for a movie night under the stars on our big screen. With its stunning natural surroundings and a variety of outdoor activities, Elkhorn Shores is the perfect destination for those looking to unwind and recharge. We look forward to welcoming you to The Shores, where unforgettable memories await!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
River Camping Near I-80

9. River Camping Near I-80

100%
(5)
Maxwell, NE · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to NC River Ranch — your quiet getaway just off I-80 in central Nebraska! Horse boarding available !! 📍 Located only about 3 miles off I-80 📍 14 miles to North Platte 📍 22 miles to Gothenburg 📍 Close to Fort McPherson National Cemetery and great local dining options Come enjoy our little slice of heaven and relax in the great outdoors. Explore 45 acres of beautiful nature filled with wildlife, river access, trails, trees, and peaceful scenery. Enjoy watching Highland cattle, horses, and other wildlife while soaking in the quiet country atmosphere. We offer: * RV rental options * Tent camping * RV camping near the river or tucked into the trees * Spacious, secluded campsites * Pet-friendly stays * Vehicle access to camping areas Enjoy the shallow river, sandy areas, walking trails, wildlife, and wide-open skies. Spend your evenings around a campfire under the stars with no traffic, no crowds, and no nearby houses — just the peaceful sounds of nature. A washer and dryer room is available about a 10-minute walk from the camping area. We also have many horses and cattle on the property. Guests are welcome to pet animals when the host is present. Come explore, adventure, and experience ranch life at NC River Ranch! 🌾🔥🐴
Pets
Picnic table
Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

10. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

92%
(6)
National forest in Nebraska · 72 sites
Ahhh, the heartland. Wide open spaces of undeveloped land in which to spread your wings and find some breathing room. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is one of these places, comprised of two forests of ponderosa pine and three grassland areas. Come here to set up your temporary little house on the prairie and be a pioneer camper for a while! Wandering and exploring is unrestricted for non-motorized travel here, meaning freedom is yours for the taking! If you don’t want to just head into the abyss, try visiting the nation's oldest federal tree nursery (awww, baby trees!), or the largest extinct bison boneland in the world at the Hudson-Meng Bison Research Center. Or, head to Soldier Creek Wilderness Area for a little rewilding and backcountry exploration. Keep your eyes peeled for prairie dogs and wildflowers popping their cute little heads up, rock formations dotting the landscape, and magic around every turn. There’s a lot going on in that grass!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Potable water
Niobrara State Park

11. Niobrara State Park

100%
(1)
State park in Nebraska · 57 sites
Discover Niobrara State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Indian Cave State Park

12. Indian Cave State Park

68%
(11)
State park in Nebraska · 133 sites
Okay, fine, it's not really a cave. You won't care, though, once you explore this fascinating park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
Chadron State Park

13. Chadron State Park

State park in Nebraska · 57 sites
Chadron State Park: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.
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Toilets
Showers
Andersen's Rustic Farm Paradise

14. Andersen's Rustic Farm Paradise

98%
(208)
Blue Hill, NE · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Golden Prairie Bison

15. Golden Prairie Bison

99%
(79)
Valentine, NE · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Carl & Vicki's land is a working cattle/bison ranch that sits on the Dakota-Nebraska Eroded Tableland. It is a diverse landscape of canyons, prairie, streams and ponds. Carl's grandmother filed a homestead claim on this ranch in 1914. We are close to the Niobrara Scenic River, Smith Falls, Fort Falls, and Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge. Birding, hiking, stargazing and canoeing are a few of the activities for the person who wants to experience the peace and quiet of this beautiful landscape. Educational bison/prairie tours are available. 
Pets
City Explorers' Stampede

16. City Explorers' Stampede

100%
(8)
La Vista, NE · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome Adventurers', inner city adventures await you! We are centralized right in the heart of the city, close to many must-see attractions. Kayak (2 person) rental is available. Firepit, charcoal grill, and a telescope (by request) are available. Additional add-on services are offered if one should enjoy Reiki, card readings, and/or a homemade warm breakfast ($8-10 per depending on meal). Prebooking of additional add-on's are required before visit to accommodate your custom experience. Explore what Omaha has to offer!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Potable water
DOUBLE NICKEL CAMPGROUND

17. DOUBLE NICKEL CAMPGROUND

98%
(21)
Waco, NE · 23 sites
WELCOME TO THE DOUBLE NICKEL CAMPGROUNDWe're So glad you found us!About Our CampgroundWe Are Open Seasonally From April 15 to Oct. 18.We are a family owned and -operated campground in Waco, Nebraska. We take pride in our campground, and it shows. Whether you're looking for a restful night after a long travel day or a relaxing weekend with the family, we've got you covered!Most of our campground is pull-thru, so there is no need to worry about backing up. Got a big rig? No problem! We've got plenty of spacious sites to accommodate you, many over 100 ft. long! We offer all full-hookup (50/30/20) RV sites and grassy tent sites. AMENITIESWhat do we have to offer to our guests? Lots!-CLEAN restrooms, showers, and laundry. Friendly staff ready to assist. -Playground, basketball court, mini-golf course, pool, arcade, horseshoes, gaga ball, and volleyball! -Two off-leash dog parks-Fast WiFi is available throughout the park. -Trash pickup at your site. -Firewood delivered to your site $6 bundle and Ice, for $3 per 8lb bag. -Free coffee during office hours. -Themed weekends! -FREE crafts for the kids on most Summer Saturday afternoons and outdoor movies on Saturday nights. -A climate controlled recreation room available to rent for groups. -A large, underground storm shelter. -The latest in surveillance technology and license plate reader to actively manage and monitor our public spaces.-Gated entrances to ensure your safety.ATTRACTIONS NEAR THE DOUBLE NICKEL CAMPGROUND:Sandy Meadows Golf Course - Located right next door! Come camp and walk to the Waco Nebraska golf course!Smith Creek Recreation Area and Recharge Lake - Fishing only a few miles away.Lee's Legendary Marble Museum - Come find your marbles in York! Houses one of the largest marble collections in the world!Wessels Living History Farm - A wonderful living history and learning farm for all ages!York Convention CenterA LITTLE FARTHER AWAY BUT WORTH THE DRIVE!Henderson Mennonite Heritage ParkIndian Cave State ParkHenry Doorly Zoo in Omaha - One of the best zoos in the world!Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska CityBirthplace of Koolaid in HastingsHomestead National Monument of AmericaADDITIONAL THINGS TO DO NEAR DOUBLE NICKEL CAMPGROUND INCLUDE:York Area Children's Museum - a fun children's museum located in York, NEPioneers Park Nature Center - a nature preserve and wildlife refugeNebraska History Museum - a history museum full of cultural artifactsClayton Museum of Ancient History - a history museum on the York College campusThe University of Nebraska State Museum - a natural history museumInternational Quilt Study Center & Museum - modern museum with a numerous amount of quiltsLincoln Children's Zoo - Lincoln park zoo is fun for the whole family.LOCAL RESTAURANTSDon't feel like cooking? Many food choices within a fifteen-minute drive!•In Waco (Exit 360)•Hunters Bar and Lounge •One exit away in York (Exit 353)•Chances "R"•China Buffet•Golden Gate Express•La Cocina Mexican Restaurant•The Kitchen•The Iron Skillet•Applebees•Huddle House•Runza•Valentinos•Pizza Hut•Dairy Queen•McDonalds•Arby's•Wendy's•Taco Johns•Burger King
Pets
Full hookups
Magill Farms

18. Magill Farms

93%
(44)
Seward, NE · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Water hookup
Beckwourth Peak High Camp

19. Beckwourth Peak High Camp

100%
(1)
Iron Horse, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Beckwourth Peak High Camp — Lost Sierra Retreat in Iron Horse, California Escape to the breathtaking Sierra Nevada at Beckwourth Peak High Camp, a unique outdoor getaway perched on 60 acres of off‑grid forest land with sweeping mountain and valley views. This peaceful retreat blends adventure and comfort, making it a perfect base for hikers, mountain bikers, gravel riders, families, and anyone who loves wide‑open spaces and fresh mountain air. Choose from rustic cabins, a spacious yurt, or campground sites set among towering pines and open meadows. All guests have access to a shaded communal deck, a campfire area perfect for starry nights, a modern bathhouse with hot showers, and fast Starlink Wi‑Fi in common areas. Outdoor lovers will find endless ways to explore the Lost Sierra. Step right onto hiking and mountain biking routes, tackle Beckwourth Peak Trail for panoramic ridge views, or cruise scenic gravel roads popular with bikepackers and adventure riders. You’re also just minutes from the town of Portola and nearby lakes, rivers, and forest trails. Whether you’re seeking peaceful solitude, exciting trail adventures, or quality time with family around the campfire, Beckwourth Peak High Camp offers a memorable mountain getaway with something for everyone.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Tarr Rentals

20. Tarr Rentals

Hildreth, NE · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
3 Campsites with 50 amp service, water, picnic tables & sewer; fire rings.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups

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Nebraska camping guide

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top national parks and forests in Nebraska