Camping in Nebraska

Experience the calm of America’s heartland in this quiet Midwestern state.

96% (1352 reviews)
  1. Nebraska
96% (1352 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Nebraska

Community favorites in Nebraska

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Nebraska

Stories from the community

Star Hosts in Nebraska

Under $50

12 top campgrounds in Nebraska

97%
(430)

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, trailers and RVs must book the RV sites. We appreciate your cooperation. RV sites 50 amp electricity and a rustic experience on crushed concrete near our corral. You'll have foot access just steps from the prairie. All sites share access to delicious potable water, a clean porta potty, and a funky outdoor camp shower (with unheated water), as well as private foot access to hiking at various levels of challenge to the south side of our nation's Scotts Bluff National Monument. A small group of yearling cattle are at home on the prairie in summer months, and may share you the prairie tent area with campers in the months of May and June. 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...
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$40.50
 / night
99%
(83)

Cottonwood Creek Camp

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
Trash
from 
$40
 / night
99%
(184)

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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
Trash
from 
$22.50
 / night

Dog-friendly getaways

Available this weekend

Other options in Nebraska

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

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, you cannot camp anywhere in Nebraska. Camping is allowed only in designated campgrounds and specific areas. Nebraska offers a variety of camping options, including state parks, recreation areas, wildlife management areas, and private campgrounds. Some popular camping locations in Nebraska include Indian Cave State Park, Platte River State Park, and Chadron State Park. To explore more camping options in Nebraska, visit Hipcamp.

The best time of year to camp in Nebraska is during the late spring and early fall months, typically from May to June and September to October. During these periods, temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor activities, and you'll experience less humidity and fewer mosquitoes than in the peak summer months. Additionally, the fall season offers beautiful foliage colors, making it a great time to explore Nebraska's natural beauty.

The cost of camping in Nebraska state parks varies depending on the type of campsite and amenities offered. Generally, prices range from $10 to $35 per night for tent and RV camping. Primitive campsites with no electricity are at the lower end of the price range, while sites with electrical hookups, water, and sewer may be at the higher end. Cabin rentals and other lodging options are also available at some parks, with prices varying based on the specific accommodation. You can explore Nebraska state parks for more detailed information on camping fees and amenities.