The best camping near Indian Cave State Park
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Indian Cave adventure.
68% (11 reviews)
68% (11 reviews)
Okay, fine, it's not really a cave. You won't care, though, once you explore this fascinating park.
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Stay at a public campground in Indian Cave State Park
Top-rated campgrounds near Indian Cave State Park
100%
(1)
Wathena Riverfront Campground
16 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Wathena, KS
Wathena Riverfront Campground is a new mom and pop private camping club which is made up of 10 waterfront acres along the main channel/current of the majestic Missouri River. It is about 2.5 miles SW of Wathena, KS and is bordered by Walnut creek to the south and a small creek just north of the boat ramp. We do not have staff on site on a scheduled basis. Campground and riverfont access is for registered guest only, there are no public facilities.
Larger RV sites with electric only (30 amp camper plugs). The nearest RV dump station is at Love's Truck stop in St. Joseph 14 miles to the East. Each site has its own fire ring. You may bring your own wood or buy some at Casey's in Wathena. We often have some self service wood on premises as well (pay through Venmo). There is a hydrant near the elevated deck which is supplied with city water in case you need to fill jugs.
Feel free to fish and enjoy shore fires along the banks of the Missouri River, but do so at your own risk and supervise minors at all times. Remember to bring your own fishing gear for an immersive experience by the water. Experience the tranquility of the riverfront and make the most of your stay.
To help you choose which site is best for you: RV sites 2-6 are our largest RV sites. Tent camping site 12 is our largest overall site and is the only tent camping that you can drive right up to your tent. Sites 9 and 10 are the only 2 that you can park at, walk to nearby river and pitch a tent riverfront. Site 11 is the closest site (along with 7-10) to our tiny home/AirBnB. Site 11 is our only 50 amp service, sites 1-8 are 30 amp camper plugs, sites 9 and 10 share a standard outlet plug. Sites 1-6 and 12 are surrounded by grass, sites 8-11 are surrounded by sand.
There is a fairly steep boat ramp past site 10. There are public boat ramps that are maintained in nearby Elwood, St. Joseph (near the Casino) and Atchison. This ramp can only be used by registered campground guest only and users assume all risk to themselves and property.
The campground is at the original steamboat landing and downtown of the now ghost town of Palermo, KS. Nearby town of Wathena (2.5 miles) is the site of the beginning of the California Trail where settlers were let off at the river NE of town (area and trail is marked) and headed west. The Pony Express started at nearby St. Joseph, MO (9 miles) and passed through the area. It has a museum. Wathena has Star 36 Diner (breakfast, lunch and supper), the legendary Dairy Barn (ice cream and food options), Doniphan Nutrition (drinks), VFW bar, quilting store.
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$20
/ night
99%
(670)
Horse Creek Adventures
26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents170 acres · Sidney, IA
Horse Creek Adventures is a 170 acre ranch that provides an opportunity for visitors to stay one night or several days to enjoy the land and area sights. You have your choice as to how you want to stay. Our "off the grid" cabins offer a special opportunity to camp with a roof.
The cabins are extremely popular! Check out the information about them and then check the photos posted by quests and read their reviews to give you lots of ideas of how you could enjoy these one of a kind sites.
Tenting is available all over the 170 acres. You can tent by the pond;
on top of the hill, or in a valley. These sites allow you to "get away from it all" and let the stress melt away. We have tenting sites close to
a road to give you flexibility to see local attractions while enjoying the whole 170 acres. Lastly, we have RV hook-ups with 119, 30 amps and
50 amps
The land is part of the famous Loess Hills. There are hilltops to take in the breath taking views and valleys surrounded by trees.
A pond full of trophy sized bass , catch and release, no license required. Wildlife abounds including a wide variety of birds. We have been described by avid birders as a rich place for birding.
The area is rich with history-Lewis and Clark;
French Canadian trappers and their Lakota wives
established French Villages;
Mormons came through here on the way to Utah; Jesse James played cards.
Waubonsie State Park is close with hiking trails and seven miles of Horse trails. At night you can use a portable corral to have your horse close.
End the day around a campfire, look at the stars and the lightening bugs and be serenaded to sleep by the coyotes and whip-poor-wills
Enjoy !!
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$30
/ night
93%
(23)
Little Rivers Edge RV Park and Camp
21 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Syracuse, NE
****We now have 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
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from
$15
/ night
The best camping near Indian Cave State Park guide
Overview
About
Don't come here expecting to put on a headlamp and go spelunking. Despite its name, this park run by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is really about beautiful scenery and relaxation.
Okay, and a little history as well. Visit the living history exhibits at the restored blacksmith and general store in St. Deroin. And yes, take a look at the Native-American petroglyphs on the cave walls (before they're all covered with graffiti—grrr).
22 miles of hiking and biking trails let you enjoy great views over the mighty Missouri. Or BYOH (bring your own horse) to explore 16 miles of equestrian trails. Fall foliage is especially spectacular here.
Tons of camping is available here (cheaper in the winter—gee, I wonder why?). Hook up at any of 134 RV sites, or hike into primitive campsites. If you crave a little "me" time with your horse, opt for the primitive equestrian campsite.
When to go
The ideal time to visit Indian Cave State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer months can be hot and humid, while winter brings a quiet, frosty beauty to the park. Avoid peak holiday weekends for a more tranquil experience.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly, as the park's terrain can be challenging in inclement weather.
- Stay informed about any trail closures or area restrictions by visiting the park's official website or contacting the park office.
- Accessibility varies throughout the park, so inquire ahead if you require accommodations for mobility.
- Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first aid kit, as amenities are limited within the park.
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially during the active seasons for hunting and fishing.
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