OMAHA — Many people still rely on a tent and sleeping bag when they go camping.
But many more want a different experience.
Nebraska Game and Parks goes to great lengths to accommodate everyone, says Bob Hanover, the state parks assistant director. Campgrounds in Nebraska’s parks have evolved over the years in response to guest feedback.
“People want options. You want choice. They want unique opportunities,” said Hannover. “We consciously try to keep something rustic and natural. We are intentionally trying to make some more modern to accommodate users.”
Camping with a recreational vehicle remains the top choice among Nebraskans. Cabins in parks like Mahoney, Niobrara, and Ponca are also popular.
But over the years Game and Parks has added options like teepees, caravans and glamping cabins that include many of the comforts of home.
The latest trend is a tentrr, a canvas tent on a wooden platform equipped with everything a camper needs. There’s also a picnic table and ring of fire, so users only need to bring personal items.
“It’s for people looking for a more luxurious experience, but it’s not quite glamping,” Hanover said. “This is a fantastic opportunity.”
If you want to leave your sleeping bag or hammock at home, here are some unique options from Game and Parks. Make reservations at outdoornebraska.gov. You may also contact the Reservations Call Center at 402-471-1414, open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m
The tipis at Platte River State Park, each with hardwood floors and other amenities, are just one example of the various options available to campers who want more than just a tent and a sleeping bag.
Teepees at Platte River State Park: Each tipi can accommodate six to eight people. Hardwood floors replace the packed earth of traditional dwellings for added comfort, and a fire pit, picnic table, grill, water hydrant, and pit toilet are located nearby.
Two Rivers State Recreation Area features 10 converted Union Pacific cabooses, each with air conditioning and a modern bathroom and shower.
Cabooses at Two Rivers State Recreation Area: 10 Union Pacific cabins converted and restored for park accommodation. Up to six people can be accommodated in a caboose, with two bunk beds in the stern and two mattresses in the dome. The cabins are air-conditioned and each has a modern bathroom and shower. The kitchen includes a stove, microwave, fridge and sink. A table with four chairs and a couch for two people serves as a dining area. If you prefer al fresco dining, there is a patio with a picnic table, grill and fire pit.
Guests enjoy the deck of a glamping cabin at Platte River State Park. The queen bed in each cabin rolls out onto the deck, allowing campers to sleep under the stars.
Glamping Cabins at Platte River State Park: Three glamping cabins combine modern comfort with a nature experience. Each cabin sleeps two, and the queen bed rolls out onto the deck through oversized French doors for guests to sleep under the stars. The cabins also come equipped with linens, bathrobes and slippers, a modern bathroom with shower, a kitchenette, a raised stone fire pit, a s’mores set, wine glasses and much more.
The former officers’ quarters are among the many historic dwellings at Fort Robinson State Park, which was an active military base from 1874-1948.
Historic Lodging at Fort Robinson State Park: Fort Robinson State Park was an active military post from 1874 to 1948 and is steeped in history. Today, visitors can stay in the stately buildings that once housed the fort’s soldiers and officers. Visitors can stay in the crew’s quarters from 1909 or in the former officers’ quarters from 1874 to 1909. These options can accommodate from two to 20 people. The Comanche Hall, which seats up to 60 people, is a great option for a family reunion or other large gathering. All options have kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. Larger cabins also have living rooms.
Tentrr Camping in the Louisville State Recreation Area: The fully equipped, move-in ready campgrounds are the newest way to experience Nebraska’s state parks. The spacious canvas safari tents are furnished with a bed, Adirondack chairs and a fire pit. Tentrr pitches are a great camping option for couples, families and groups like outdoor clubs. In addition to the platform tent, each site is equipped with a pop-up tent for additional campers. Find out more and book your stay at tentrr.com.
Campers enjoy a stay at one of the eight Adirondack Shelters at Indian Cave State Park.
Adirondack refuges at Indian Cave State Park: Eight Adirondack refuges are scattered along the park’s trails. These three-sided wooden structures are perfect for campers who want extra protection for their tents or sleeping bags. About half of the lodgings have scenic views, and one area has three lodgings that are close together, making it a popular choice for Boy Scout groups. All accommodations in Adirondack are based on availability. Rings of fire are nearby.
Ponca green huts
Green Cabins at Ponca State Park: These are insulated with tightly packed hay bales. They also include geothermal heating and cooling, recycled building materials, and eco-friendly lighting and wastewater treatment. The two bedroom cabins feature queen beds, modern kitchen and bathroom, dining area, big screen TV, wired and wireless internet access, gas grill and outdoor deck.
