In Nebraska, the cooler weather in September and October provides comfortable days for enjoying the outdoors and cool nights for sleeping. Couple the amazing weather with the endless forests of yellow and orange and spectacular river views, and fall in Nebraska is one of the best times to plan your own camping getaway. So pack your bags and head out to enjoy one of these five perfect fall camping spots in Nebraska before winter hits!
Indian Cave State Park near Shubert is one of the absolute best spots to camp in the Nebraska fall. Surrounded by endless forest and flora, set up your tent then head out to enjoy the numerous hiking and biking trails through the gorgeous fall-colored trees. During the month of October, Indian Cave campers also tend to decorate their campsites with lights and spooky decorations which can make for a fun, different way to experience Halloween activities.
Stretching alongside the eastern part of the Missouri River, Ponca State Park offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails for fans of fall foliage to enjoy. Campsites at Ponca State Park are paved and have electrical hookups, however, more primitive campsites are available if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous. In the fall, many families gather here to enjoy the cooler weather and have cookouts.
The Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is another fantastic camping option for the fall. Well-maintained trails and a 70-foot observation tower provide stunning views of the Platte River and the forest filled with fall colors that surround it. Camping and fishing is allowed all year-round so make your way here and enjoy everything that fall in Nebraska has to offer.
Located right where the Niobrara and Missouri rivers meet, Niobrara State Park offers plenty of camping and outdoor activities to experience all year round. Campgrounds, horseback riding trails, hiking trails, and fishing, can all be enjoyed through the fall but the real treat is making your way to one of the lookout points and seeing the beautiful fall colors along the river banks.
Located about halfway between Omaha and Lincoln, Platte River State Park is the perfect weekend escape, even in the fall months. With spectacular views overlooking the Platte River, campers can enjoy their stay in a modern cabin, teepees, or their own tents.