The best forest campgrounds near South Bend, Nebraska

Looking to go camping near South Bend, Nebraska? Hipcamp has you covered with over 50 options to choose from. Whether you're into swimming, biking, or hiking, there's a campsite for you. Some popular campsites in the area include Horse Creek Adventures (255 reviews), Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue (49 reviews), and Two Old Hoes on Hippie Hill (10 reviews). With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $20, camping near South Bend, Nebraska is both affordable and enjoyable. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like potable water, cooking equipment, and toilets. So get ready to experience the great outdoors and book your camping adventure today!

96% (208)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near South Bend, Nebraska? Hipcamp has you covered with over 50 options to choose from. Whether you're into swimming, biking, or hiking, there's a campsite for you. Some popular campsites in the area include Horse Creek Adventures (255 reviews), Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue (49 reviews), and Two Old Hoes on Hippie Hill (10 reviews). With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $20, camping near South Bend, Nebraska is both affordable and enjoyable. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like potable water, cooking equipment, and toilets. So get ready to experience the great outdoors and book your camping adventure today!

96% (208)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

96%

(58)

29mi from South Bend · 1 site · Lodging · Council Bluffs, IA

This custom designed glamping lodge was a dream of mine for a long time. I wanted a place to go to unwind and be with one with nature. But! wanted it close to town so I do not have to travel far and still be close to the city attractions. AC and Heat are in the Lodge The lodge backs up to a large hill--called the Loess Hills. Many deer, raccoon, possum and turkey call it home and so does a few pets of mine to include a mini schwazer and two goats. They just love being adorned by new people. I think you will find this a perfect place for a good nights sleep. Learn more about this land: --Enjoy the deer setting amongst the tree's and nature. Hiking trails close by. Come enjoy a relaxing experience close to the city, the zoo and other attractions. MOST dogs are welcomed -- BUT need to be approved first! before booking. ADDITIONAL FEE REQUIRED - payment at the time of check in Walking trails close by! and restaurants. Verify with host before booking please. The bathroom/shower is located across the yard in the lower level of the main house. Thank you!

2. Cottonwood Creek Camp

100%

(116)

28mi from South Bend · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lincoln, NE

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.

3. Camp A Way

100%

(8)

26mi from South Bend · 45 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lincoln, NE

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.

4. Platte River State Park

100%

(3)

55 sites · South Bend, Nebraska

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. 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

Potable water

Toilets

6. Best Nest Farm

29mi from South Bend · 2 sites · Lodging · Glenwood, IA

Located in the scenic Loess Hills of Southwest Iowa, 12 miles Southeast of Glenwood, Best Nest Farm offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience for those looking for a relaxing or adventurous getaway in the country. On our 50-acre property , we truly have the best of all worlds: an active farm we share with our furry and feathered friends (farm dogs, barn cats, friendly alpacas and ducks), a lake teeming with wildlife, and pristine woodlands. Best Nest Farm is the perfect oasis for those who enjoy outdoor activities as well as those seeking a peaceful retreat in the serenity of nature.

7. Magill Farm Drive w/ hook ups

89%

(19)

39mi from South Bend · 1 site · Tent, RV · Seward, NE

This is a great option for campers with larger RV's and if you need to hook up to electrical. 120v 30A electrical service and water available on this site. You can turn around easily in the gravel drive. And you'll camp right near our cattle where you're welcome to take picture, scratch their heads, or give them a snack. Tours available too, just ask, we are happy to show you around! This site is well lit and located near our home. We appreciate guests and welcome you to visit with us, we have children and they love to play with other kids. There is plenty of room for pets to roam and do their business. This site is private but as a working farm you may see or hear us doing our daily routine of feeding the cows or moving equipment. We are mindful of your privacy and would never do anything to disturb our guests or ruin their stay unintentionally. You will also have access to the entirety of our 110 acre farm to explore and enjoy nature and animals. We have a firepit and firewood available for you to enjoy a little outdoor relaxation around the fire. If you need anything else not listed we aim to please, just let us know. If you want to purchase beef we stock many items right on the farm. Availability of different cuts of meat and snacks will vary. Our neighbors also produce milk and eggs which available for purchase too. Follow our Facebook @magillbeef to see what we all have going on and more information about our farm.

8. Magill Farms

92%

(39)

39mi from South Bend · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Seward, NE

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!

9. Lake Manawa State Park

73 sites · Council Bluffs, Iowa

Discover the allure of Lake Manawa State Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

10. Wilson Island State Recreation Area

130 sites · Iowa

Discover the natural charm of Wilson Island State Recreation Area.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Waubonsie State Park

86 sites · Hamburg, Iowa

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near South Bend

100%

(3)

Platte River Campground

1.9mi from South Bend · 55 sites · in Platte River 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

3.3mi from South Bend · 43 sites · Tents, RVs · in E.T. Mahoney State Park

100%

(2)

Lakeside Campground

3.4mi from South Bend · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in E.T. Mahoney State Park

Lake Manawa Campground

25mi from South Bend · 73 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Manawa State Park

Wilson Island Campground

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

Waubonsie Campground

37mi from South Bend · 86 sites · Tents, RVs · in Waubonsie State Park

Stories from the community

H

Hannah

2 days 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!

Z

Zeke

3 weeks ago

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.

J

Jason

October 2025

31 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magill Farm Drive w/ hook ups

This was a unique place to camp. We loved being close to the cows and the host was the best at making sure we were comfortable. He took us out to feed the cows taught us about what he does. Very happy with our stay.

C

Christopher

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

We loved how unique and charming the lodge felt. Rob has done an amazing job creating a getaway, that simply shifts your focus onto nature, literally in his own backyard. We highly recommend to anyone looking for a quick weekend getaway!

j

james

October 2025

1 night at Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

Secluded little area facing wooded area. Unique and cool structure. And great communication.

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.

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.

M

Mary Lin

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp A Way

Staff was friendly. They drive you to your campsite so you don’t get lost. Pretty spot. Real easy to get to, but you can hear the traffic from the highway. So pros near the highway-con you can hear the traffic 😜 I would go back.

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.

T

Tayler

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

This was a really cool find! You would never think you would be right in town by pictures. When you go to the restroom you’ll get greeted with the sweetest dog!:) there is so many cool things to look at in the yard and cabin! One thing I would tell future campers is if you want to use a blanket be sure to bring one. There was one on the main bed but only big enough for one person. I didn’t ask if there were any extras tho.

C

Crystal

September 2025

2 nights at Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

Best way I can sum up Robs property is that it's just like camping, except there is a bed, air conditioning, and heat provided. Rob has set the cabin up very well, and there is a small table with chairs and some books and games if interested. My partner and I like to tent camp, but when it's too hot or cold for us, we find simple cabins that provide a space to cool off or warm up but still space to cook outside and live "simply" Robs property gave us the perfect chance for that. As a warning to others though, that maybe wouldn't bring a car full of camping supplies to stay, the cabin does not come equipped with cooking supplies, plates, cups, etc. There are restaurants close by, but If you're looking to just relax and stay in, you'll have to be prepared or plan to door dash food. The space is cozy and feels extremely private, even though it's at the end of Robs property. It feels like you're away from the city. The bathroom is accessible through the garage, and is apart of the main house. It is clean, and Rob even put towels out for us. The large sink in the restroom was a great place to do dishes. While the site description includes water and a picnic table, there was not a picnic table, and the water is from the houe (you have to locate it, it's not right near the cabin) This is a hipcamp listing, not a 5 star Airbnb. If you are searching for a 5 star BnB, this ain't it. But a great hipcamp? Absolutely!

J

James

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cottonwood Creek Camp

Excellent campsite, quiet. The amenities were top notch.

Wendy

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

It was so nice to get away for a weekend and Rob’s land was a great “in between” - it feels very much part of the land and surrounding nature, while being very accessible to main roads. Would definitely recommend!

Catherine

September 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Magill Farm Drive w/ hook ups

A very lovely spot...amazing stars at night, wispy willows and lats of space for walking. Thank you!

Paul

September 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Magill Farms

Shaun was very helpful. I just needed to park a couple of nights while preparing storage. It was a last minute reservation and we were so grateful and pleased