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E.T. Mahoney State Park

The best camping in E.T. Mahoney State Park, NE

90% (5)

The best camping in E.T. Mahoney State Park, NE

Lakeside Campground

1. Lakeside Campground

100%

(2)

31 sites · Tents, RVs · In E.T. Mahoney State Park

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

No matter where you stay at E.T

Public campgrounds in E.T. Mahoney State Park are often sold-out.

Little Creek Campground

2. Little Creek Campground

83%

(3)

43 sites · Tents, RVs · In E.T. Mahoney State Park

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

You might have trouble convincing Teddy Roosevelt that E.T

Omaha Campsite - ONE SITE ONLY

3. Omaha Campsite - ONE SITE ONLY

94%

(53)

4.1mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

DO NOT DRIVE THRU CAMPGROUND My ONE and ONLY Hipcamp site is locate right at the entrance of this small property. All campers must be 35 feet or less in length and given the small size of the campground it's easiest if you arrive before dark. The entrance is on a curve so make sure you enter from the left hand side of the road and don't be afraid to roll thru a little grass to make sure you have plenty of room. Make a hard hairpin turn to the right and your campsite is straight ahead and like everything here, a pull-thru site. (Please see HIPCAMP main photo) This is a long-term campground but I keep this one spot up front for our traveling friends to enjoy as you move across the country as options can be limited. Enjoy your stay and if you're ever unsure about anything just give me a ring. Please make sure to arrive before dark. Small campground and quiet community with minimal lighting can make for a challenging and sometimes disorienting arrival if not careful.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$35

/ night

BNR Acres Nebraska

4. BNR Acres Nebraska

90%

(20)

15mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Just 3.5 miles from Eagle or 8.5 miles from Lincoln, our camping site offers a perfect escape into nature, surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of rustling leaves. This location is on a small hill on a gravel road, dust does come up from the road. The campsite features spacious 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. Take time to explore the walking trails.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$12

/ night

Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

5. Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

99%

(128)

26mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$15

/ night

Cottonwood Creek Camp

6. Cottonwood Creek Camp

100%

(118)

27mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 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 a walking path next to it and 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, an extended stay 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 grocery 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 west via Saltillo Rd. and then north on 56th St.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$40

/ night

Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

7. Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

96%

(59)

31mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site · Lodging

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!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$85

/ night

Magill Farms

8. Magill Farms

92%

(39)

36mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 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

Campfires

from

$34

/ night

Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

9. Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

99%

(87)

47mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 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!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$40

/ night

The ALOHA SPIRIT Camper

10. The ALOHA SPIRIT Camper

100%

(2)

16mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site · Lodging

Bring your Positive Vibes and Enjoy the relaxation of The ALOHA SPIRIT. My '69 Holiday Camper is available for the solo camper or pair of campers. The camper is located in the heart of Papillion. Situated in the suburbs but access to whimsical porches and backyard this camper will lift your spirits. Escape to So Cal while enjoying the peacefulness of the Midwest.

Toilets

Campfires

from

$90

/ night

Elkhorn Shores Campground

11. Elkhorn Shores Campground

18mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 49 sites · Tents, RVs

Come see us next Season. We are closed for the winter. South Beach RV's will re-open April 1, 2026 and the North Park RV's tents will open May 1, 2026. The South Beach Tent's and the Glamping Village will re-open May 22, 2026. We look forward to seeing you next season. 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 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\u2019t 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

from

$20

/ night

City Explorers' Stampede

12. City Explorers' Stampede

100%

(7)

18mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 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

Campfires

Water hookup

from

$35

/ night

Tiny Home Alley Delight

13. Tiny Home Alley Delight

23mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site · Lodging

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

from

$212

/ night

Camp A Way

14. Camp A Way

100%

(8)

24mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 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

from

$33

/ night

Bartlett Shores RV Park

15. Bartlett Shores RV Park

100%

(2)

28mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 102 sites · RVs, Lodging

Discover a one-of-a-kind RV park nestled along the picturesque banks of the Missouri River on the Iowa side, offering a serene escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This unique campground features a seasonal riverside area that welcomes guests from May to October, providing an idyllic setting for relaxation and recreation. In addition to the seasonal options, our year-round campground is conveniently located within the levee, offering both short-term and monthly rental opportunities. This ensures that visitors can enjoy the beauty of the river and surrounding landscapes throughout the entire year. Guests can take advantage of nearby attractions, including scenic hiking trails, swimming holes, and various outdoor activities that cater to all ages. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable stay. Experience the perfect blend of nature and convenience at our beautiful RV park, where adventure awaits at every turn.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$35

/ night

Best Nest Farm

16. Best Nest Farm

33mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 2 sites · Lodging

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.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$200

/ night

Magill Farm Drive w/ hook ups

17. Magill Farm Drive w/ hook ups

89%

(19)

36mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

$28

/ night

Long's Creek RV Park

18. Long's Creek RV Park

100%

(1)

50mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site · RV

Enjoy the sunshine and fresh air at Long's Creek RV Park! Our park offers spacious concrete pads with 30/50 amp hookups, perfect for your RV. Nestled next to a beautiful fishing lake, cast a line or explore the scenic walking path. Property is close to the highway making it a great place for an overnight or extended stay! Relax and unwind with our amenities: *Showers *Bathrooms *Laundry Facilities *Free WiFi Please note: Our RV sites are located in an open area with no trees, ideal for those who love to bask in the sun. Long's Creek RV Park is located behind the Auburn inn motel. We look forward to welcoming you to Long's Creek RV Park!

Pets

Full hookups

from

$38

/ night

Pine Grove RV Park

19. Pine Grove RV Park

5.6mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site

Discover the unique charm of our campground, where a blend of relaxation and recreation awaits every visitor. Dive into the refreshing waters of our expansive swimming pool, perfect for cooling off on warm days. For those who enjoy entertainment, gather in the lodge to watch your favorite shows on the large screen, or stay connected with our complimentary Wireless Internet from the comfort of your campsite. Families will love our spacious playground, while sports enthusiasts can take advantage of our sand volleyball court, tennis court, and horseshoe pits. If you’re looking to maintain your fitness routine, our well-equipped exercise room is available for your use. With a variety of amenities and activities, our campground is designed to cater to all interests, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.

Walnut Creek Lake Recreation Area

20. Walnut Creek Lake Recreation Area

17mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site

The Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area stands out as a unique destination due to its “pack in, pack out” policy, which encourages visitors to take responsibility for their waste and maintain the park's natural beauty. Spanning 450 acres, this mixed-use recreation area features a stunning 105-acre reservoir, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Conveniently located south of Highway 370 and west of 96th Street, the park offers two entrances for easy access. The first entrance is directly off 96th Street, while the second is located 1.5 miles further south and west on Schram Road, leading to Turkey Road. Visitors to Walnut Creek can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The park's serene environment is perfect for those seeking privacy and a chance to connect with nature. While there are no trash services available, this unique aspect fosters a sense of community responsibility among guests, ensuring that the park remains clean and inviting for everyone. Whether you're looking to explore the natural surroundings or simply relax by the water, Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area is a fantastic choice for your next outdoor adventure.

90% (5)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next E.T. Mahoney State Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near E.T. Mahoney State Park

Omaha Campsite - ONE SITE ONLY

94%

(53)

4.1mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$35

/ night

BNR Acres Nebraska

90%

(20)

15mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$12

/ night

Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

99%

(128)

26mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 19 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$15

/ night

Cottonwood Creek Camp

100%

(118)

27mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$40

/ night

Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

96%

(59)

31mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site · Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$85

/ night

Magill Farms

92%

(39)

36mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$34

/ night

Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

99%

(87)

47mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$40

/ night

The ALOHA SPIRIT Camper

100%

(2)

16mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site · Lodging

Toilets

Campfires

from

$90

/ night

Elkhorn Shores Campground

18mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 49 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$20

/ night

City Explorers' Stampede

100%

(7)

18mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Water hookup

from

$35

/ night

Tiny Home Alley Delight

23mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 1 site · Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$212

/ night

Camp A Way

100%

(8)

24mi from E.T. Mahoney State Park · 45 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$33

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Lonna

1 week ago

22 ft campervan

1 night at Cottonwood Creek Camp

I stayed at this Hipcamp site as my second stop heading out west. Easy Access & Clear Communication The hosts provided detailed instructions and amenities information before my arrival, which made everything seamless. The site was easy to locate - no wandering around in the dark trying to figure out where to park - and I was able to pull in smoothly for the night. Comfortable Amenities The indoor community space was a real highlight. It’s one thing to have a place to park and sleep, but having access to a welcoming indoor area made the experience feel more like a retreat than just a parking spot. It was clean, well-maintained, and had everything needed for a comfortable stay. Perfect for Road Trippers This site is ideal for travelers finding their road trip groove or needing a safe, peaceful place to rest between destinations. Thoughtful hosts, clear communication, and quality facilities make this a solid choice. Would definitely stay again if my travels bring me back through this area. Thank you to the hosts for creating such a welcoming space!

Hannah

December 2025

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!

Rachel

November 2025

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.

Bradley

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Shepherd's Rest Goat Rescue

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

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

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.

30A FHU Pull-thru for RVs up to 29' long

Lora

October 2025

25 ft Class C

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Camp A Way

Super nice owners! Even called to check on us to make sure we were still coming when we were coming in later than planned. So considerate. We liked the RV amenities as well. Nice place and reasonable rates. I highly recommend.

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.

Ryan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at City Explorers' Stampede

Tasha was very accommodating and met me when I got there. They have a cool hang out area next to the house. I was just passing through and this was great.

Deann

October 2025

33 ft fifth wheel

With pets

1 night at Omaha Campsite - ONE SITE ONLY

We enjoyed a quiet night in a beautiful country setting. The host Corey was very hospitable and welcoming. The site and grounds are very well kept. I’m glad we found this site passing through. I definitely recommend stopping in if you get the chance.

Erin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to BNR Acres Nebraska

Perfect spot for tent camping! The site was peaceful, private, and well-kept with plenty of flat ground for our tent and scenic walking trails. Brenda was friendly and responsive, and everything was exactly as described. Her son’s loaded us up with fire wood, too!

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.

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!

james

October 2025

1 night at Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

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

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.

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!

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

The best camping in E.T. Mahoney State Park, NE guide

Overview

About

Set about halfway between Lincoln and Omaha, this popular park along the Platte River offers numerous lodging options, from tent and RV sites to cabins and lodge rooms, in addition to an array of activities. Enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, a driving range, mini golf course, sports fields, a theater, conservatory, two lakes, and a water park complete with a wave pool and water slides. Soar to new heights on a treetop ropes course, or climb the observation tower for stellar views. There’s even an indoor playground, rock climbing wall, and activity center for when the weather turns. The fun doesn’t stop in winter, when ice fishing, sledding, tobogganing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing take center stage.

Notable campgrounds

Best for water access: Lakeside Campground offers 49 sites close to both Baright Lake and CenturyLink Lake.
Best for families with kids: Little Creek Campground offers 99 sites, and is the closest to the playground.
Best for large groups: Located on a secluded ridgetop, 57 fully furnished cabins with two to six bedrooms have room for the whole gang.

Tips for snagging a campsite

All cabins and half of the modern campsites can be reserved up to one year in advance. Plan ahead and make a reservation online or by phone.
If you can’t get a reservation ahead of time, plan to arrive as early as possible to grab any remaining campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
If your plans are flexible and you don’t mind the cold, try timing your stay for winter. The campgrounds are open year-round, and there are still plenty of activities available.

When to go

The park is very popular over the summer. Expect large crowds, high temperatures, and lots of bugs. The Family Aquatic Center is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with reduced hours starting in mid August. Owen Marina also serves food and drinks from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Horse trail rides are available from May to October. The ice skating season typically runs from mid November to March, weather permitting. Certain activities are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Check ahead to avoid disappointment.

Know before you go

Only a very limited number of campsites have full hookups. All sites have electricity, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Water and a dump station can be found near the park entrance.
Owen Marina offers a concession stand and paddleboat rentals, and also sells fishing and camping supplies, sundries, and basic groceries. Pick up other supplies in nearby Ashland.
A fishing permit is required to fish. You can borrow fishing rods and reels for free from Owen Marina.
Alcohol consumption is prohibited during the quiet hours of 10pm to 6am.

90%

5 ratings · 4 reviews

March 2018

Lakeside Campground

Mahoney is on of Nebraska’s best state parks. It is a must do if you are traveling I-80 in Easter Nebraska.

Joe R.

7 years on Hipcamp

March 2018

Little Creek Campground

I have camped here a few times. It is great for scout camp outs and family alike. There is a lot to do from horse back riding to the water park. Good trails for hiking and mountain biking right on the Platte River. Check out the view from the observation tower when you are there. Very friendly staff and camp hosts. My only complaint is it’s proximity to interstate 80. You do get some road noise not matter where you camp.

Joe R.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2017

Lakeside Campground

Lots to do!

C C.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· February 2017

Lakeside Campground

No electric