Camping in Nebraska: Best Nebraska Campgrounds 2025

United States
—
Nebraska

95% (1359 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Nebraska

Dog-friendly getaways

Top camping destinations

Platte River State Park

126 campgrounds

Indian Cave State Park

170 campgrounds

Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

122 campgrounds

E.T. Mahoney State Park

Available this weekend

99%

(179)

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

99%

(76)

Cottonwood Creek Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Lincoln, NE

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

Potters Pasture

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Brady, NE

Potters Pasture campground is located across the road from 1200+ acres of the best mountain biking, Camp; hiking in the state of Nebraska. There are over 36 miles of trails to keep you exploring the ridges, valleys, and single track trails. The campground at Potters has electrical and water hookups for camping and newly installed Star Link internet. There are two gates to enter the property with the larger gate located to the North of the main entrance. Enjoy your adventure!

100%

(14)

Snowy Range of Nebraska

1 site · RV5 acres · Riverdale, NE

We are located NW of Kearney in a rural setting. There are neighbors around us but not too close. Being this close to a town, there are many activities and places to go. A few miles to the West of us is Cottonmill Park which has a good sized lake and hiking trails. Within an hours drive there are fishing/boating and recreational lakes. The great Sandhills of Nebraska are just a little over an hour North to get to. Pioneer Village is South about an hour and the Hastings museum is about the same distance only a little East and South.

BNR Acres Nebraska

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Eagle, NE

Nestled in a tranquil wooded area, just 3.5 miles from Eagle or 8.5 miles from Lincoln, our semi-private camping site offers a perfect escape into nature for those seeking solitude and adventure. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of rustling leaves, this serene location provides an ideal backdrop for a restful retreat or an outdoor experience. The campsite features spacious, flat 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. The semi-private setting ensures that while you can connect with nature, you also have a sense of privacy to unwind and recharge. Take time to explore the walking trails that wind through the trees, perfect for birdwatching or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

12 top campgrounds in Nebraska

97%

(424)

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, 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...

Potters Pasture

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Brady, NE

Potters Pasture campground is located across the road from 1200+ acres of the best mountain biking, Camp; hiking in the state of Nebraska. There are over 36 miles of trails to keep you exploring the ridges, valleys, and single track trails. The campground at Potters has electrical and water hookups for camping and newly installed Star Link internet. There are two gates to enter the property with the larger gate located to the North of the main entrance. Enjoy your adventure!

Greenwood Acres

8 sites · RVs7 acres · Greenwood, NE

We purchased our acreage in 2016 from extreme hoarders. Somehow we were able to look beyond all the junk, inside and out, and see the potential of this property. We have been fixing it up mostly on our own and it's still not perfect but we are proud of all the work and progress we’ve made so far! The front part of our property, close to our house is a garden, fruit trees, berry bushes and chickens. You can help yourself to a few garden goods. NOTE: our chickens are free range but we coop them up in their run when we know guests are bringing their pets. On the back of our property is where you will find all our hipcamps. There is a swimming and fishing pond with lots of fish, frogs and other water creatures, all safe to swim with. We are on migration path of many birds you may encounter during your stay, like; blue heron, cranes and ducks. During the warm months help yourself to the beach toys, paddle board, kayak and paddle boat. We simply ask you care for them like you would your own. There is also a large playground area in the trees, close to our house. Please don't hesitate to check it out and let your kiddos play on it!

BNR Acres Nebraska

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Eagle, NE

Nestled in a tranquil wooded area, just 3.5 miles from Eagle or 8.5 miles from Lincoln, our semi-private camping site offers a perfect escape into nature for those seeking solitude and adventure. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of rustling leaves, this serene location provides an ideal backdrop for a restful retreat or an outdoor experience. The campsite features spacious, flat 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. The semi-private setting ensures that while you can connect with nature, you also have a sense of privacy to unwind and recharge. Take time to explore the walking trails that wind through the trees, perfect for birdwatching or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

Cottonwood Creek Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Lincoln, NE

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

98%

(27)

Rock Creek Retreet Center

1 site · RV, Tent12 acres · Davey, NE

We have a very cool .5 mile nature trail that goes through an amazing tree line leading back to a viewing area with an amazing, magical giant Cottonwood Tree. Just completed a meditation labyrith that you'll want to catch around the time of a sunset! We also have chickens, horses, cats and dogs to visit while you are here. There is also an orchard, creeks, and beautiful sunrises and sunsets to enjoy! Not to mention the beautiful night sky! (Please note: The horses we foster are here August - May. They spend the summer at a non-profit kids camp in Ashland.) We also have a picnic table and campfire site for your use.

Snowy Range of Nebraska

1 site · RV5 acres · Riverdale, NE

We are located NW of Kearney in a rural setting. There are neighbors around us but not too close. Being this close to a town, there are many activities and places to go. A few miles to the West of us is Cottonmill Park which has a good sized lake and hiking trails. Within an hours drive there are fishing/boating and recreational lakes. The great Sandhills of Nebraska are just a little over an hour North to get to. Pioneer Village is South about an hour and the Hastings museum is about the same distance only a little East and South.

94%

(39)

Omaha Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Ashland, NE

Small family campground (35 feet or less in length) near Omaha Nebraska with interstate access (I-80, Exit 426) offering extended stay site availability. Rural setting offers peace and quiet at the end of the day and a campground tailoring to the traveling professional. NO concrete all natural pull-thru sites with limestone roads. 50/30/20Amp service and water at all sites with weekly tank dumps if needed.

98%

(82)

Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

19 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Syracuse, NE

****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.

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

97%

(101)

Sunset Serenity

7 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Cairo, NE

We live on a small acreage 3 miles from a farming community of about 800 people. However, we are 20 miles from a larger town of about 50,000 which provides shopping and dining options.

99%

(92)

Brodine Acres

1 site · RV4 acres · Elm Creek, NE

*Please note: We are an RV only location due to the lack of a public restroom. This location is approximately 1.5 miles from a paved road. We are about 6 miles north of Interstate 80. After snow or large amounts of rain, the road can be slick and difficult to traverse. If you have any concerns, please let us know and we can let you know how the roads are! In 2016 my wife and I built a barn home on my family's farm. The family has farmed in the Elm Creek area since the late 1800s. We're glad to be back in the area and can't wait to share how great our little community is with others! Learn more about this land: We are on a pivot corner of a farm in the hills north of Interstate 80 and Highway 30. There are fields of corn/soybeans, pastures that sometimes house cattle and the Elm Creek visible from the camping location. We are near 8 miles from Sandy Channels Recreation area and about 40 miles from Rowe Sanctuary if you enjoy wildlife and bird watching. There is also a viewing tower on site, accessible by stairs, which offers a 360 degree view of natural surroundings and wildlife! The creek running south of the property is home to deer, turkeys, and other wildlife that are easily and safely viewed from the camp site and tower. A 1/3 mile trail runs around the perimeter of the property. The home on the property is a barn style home. The site is a mile and a half from a paved road. There is very little local traffic and the site is relatively quiet other than nearby agriculture activity during certain times of the year. There is a big friendly farm dog on site who roams the property (A Great Pyrenees). He does bark to keep nocturnal animals such as deer and raccoons away from the property - but he loves other friendly dogs! He is neutered, so is safe for other dogs to play with unsupervised. There is a washer and dryer that you can use on site for a small fee, detergent provided. (Must be scheduled while on site) Clothesline is able to be used free of charge, baskets and clothespins available to borrow upon request. There is also guest WiFi available for no extra charge and it is fast enough to stream video, remote work, video conference, etc.

Under $50

97%

(424)

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, 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...

BNR Acres Nebraska

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Eagle, NE

Nestled in a tranquil wooded area, just 3.5 miles from Eagle or 8.5 miles from Lincoln, our semi-private camping site offers a perfect escape into nature for those seeking solitude and adventure. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of rustling leaves, this serene location provides an ideal backdrop for a restful retreat or an outdoor experience. The campsite features spacious, flat 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. The semi-private setting ensures that while you can connect with nature, you also have a sense of privacy to unwind and recharge. Take time to explore the walking trails that wind through the trees, perfect for birdwatching or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

Potters Pasture

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Brady, NE

Potters Pasture campground is located across the road from 1200+ acres of the best mountain biking, Camp; hiking in the state of Nebraska. There are over 36 miles of trails to keep you exploring the ridges, valleys, and single track trails. The campground at Potters has electrical and water hookups for camping and newly installed Star Link internet. There are two gates to enter the property with the larger gate located to the North of the main entrance. Enjoy your adventure!

Papa Moon Vineyards Winery Cidery

1 site · RV300 acres · Scottsbluff, NE

Learn more about this land:Enjoy the winery and cider house with locally made foods and craft beverages. Walking paths and patios to view the Nebraska countryside. Kid friendly swing sets and yard games. Watch the wonderful Nebraska wild life and the beautiful sunsets the Nebraska prairie provides. Wonderful views of the city without all the noise.

Greenwood Acres

8 sites · RVs7 acres · Greenwood, NE

We purchased our acreage in 2016 from extreme hoarders. Somehow we were able to look beyond all the junk, inside and out, and see the potential of this property. We have been fixing it up mostly on our own and it's still not perfect but we are proud of all the work and progress we’ve made so far! The front part of our property, close to our house is a garden, fruit trees, berry bushes and chickens. You can help yourself to a few garden goods. NOTE: our chickens are free range but we coop them up in their run when we know guests are bringing their pets. On the back of our property is where you will find all our hipcamps. There is a swimming and fishing pond with lots of fish, frogs and other water creatures, all safe to swim with. We are on migration path of many birds you may encounter during your stay, like; blue heron, cranes and ducks. During the warm months help yourself to the beach toys, paddle board, kayak and paddle boat. We simply ask you care for them like you would your own. There is also a large playground area in the trees, close to our house. Please don't hesitate to check it out and let your kiddos play on it!

Star Hosts in Nebraska

98%

(82)

Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp

19 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Syracuse, NE

****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.

Cottonwood Creek Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Lincoln, NE

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

Potters Pasture

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Brady, NE

Potters Pasture campground is located across the road from 1200+ acres of the best mountain biking, Camp; hiking in the state of Nebraska. There are over 36 miles of trails to keep you exploring the ridges, valleys, and single track trails. The campground at Potters has electrical and water hookups for camping and newly installed Star Link internet. There are two gates to enter the property with the larger gate located to the North of the main entrance. Enjoy your adventure!

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

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, 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...

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(3)

Platte River State Park

South Bend, Nebraska

90%

(5)

E.T. Mahoney State Park

Ashland, Nebraska

90%

(5)

Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

Indian Cave State Park

Barada, Nebraska

Chadron State Park

Chadron, Nebraska

Fort Robinson State Park

Crawford, Nebraska

Wilson Island State Recreation Area

Iowa

Chief White Crane Recreation Area

South Dakota

Ponca State Park

Ponca, Nebraska

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.