A List of Camping Sites in Nebraska

If you're thinking about taking a vacation this spring, camping is a great activity that the entire family will like. Sitting by the campfire and roasting marshmallows; eating s'mores and looking at the stars. Pretty much just enjoying family time in the great outdoors.

When planning for a camping trip it can get a little frustrating; where will you go? What site should you stay at? Having the answers to these questions is critical and having a plan put in place will make it easier when the time comes to leave.

You can look at brochures, send away for visitor's guides, or surf the net to find just the right spot. Or you can take a look below in case your travel plans include Nebraska.

1. "Arbor Lodge State Historical Park "is approximately 50 miles South of Omaha. Hiking, picnicking, and visiting the "Arbor Lodge Museum" are just a few of the things you can do when visiting.The state park is located at 2600 Arbor Ave in Nebraska City and can be reached at 402-873-7222. Another place to camp in Nebraska City is "Riverview Marina State Recreation Area" located at North 11^th. They have modern showers, many picnic sites, and a beautiful marina. For additional information contact them at 402-873-7222.

2. If you still want to be close to the city you can head to Lincoln which is approximately 59 miles South West of Omaha. "Blue River State Recreation Area" is located at 3019 Apple Street. Here you will enjoy the outdoors and you have direct river access. For more details call 402-471-5566. If you want more amenities such as a swimming beach, boating, archery ranges, and up to date facilities I recommend visiting "Bluestem State Recreation Area"; also in Lincoln located at West Sprague Road 402-471-5545.

3. "Eugene T. Mahoney State Park" located at 28500 West Park Highway in Ashland; approximately 31 miles South West of Omaha. This park is open year round and offers 40 guests rooms with their own private bathroom, fireplaces, and a restaurant for family dining. I addition to these amenities they also have a family aquatic center. Please call 402-944-2523.

4. "Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area" is located in Crofton; approximately 158 miles North West of Omaha. At this recreation area you'll enjoy things such as hunting, fishing, sleeping cabins; equipped with a kitchenette. In the winter you can cross-country ski, snow-mobile, and ice skate. For more information about this wonderful park please call 402-388-4169.

5. If you really want to get away you can make a trip to Ogallala located at 1450 HWY 61 North, which is 330 miles west of Omaha. "Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area" is a great park to camp. This park is the largest reservoir in Nebraska measuring 35,700 acres. You'll find a sandy beach area on the lake, fishing, boating, and picnic areas. For more information please call 308-284-8800.

All of these parks are great to visit; it just depends on the camping area that suits your needs. If any of these interest you or if you'd like detailed information you can contact the "Nebraska Game and Parks Commission" at 402-471-0641.