Platte River State Park
Platte River State Park is Nebraska’s crown jewel for cabin camping and family adventure—a forested oasis along the scenic Platte River Valley with 55 cabins ranging from cozy camper cabins to modern glamping retreats. Climb the 85-foot observation tower for panoramic views, hike to Stone Creek Falls, sleep in a Pawnee teepee village, or explore 10+ miles of trails through wooded bluffs. Located just 30 minutes from Omaha and Lincoln, this year-round park delivers an accessible escape into Nebraska’s surprising natural beauty.
Cabins – 55 Options from Rustic to Glamping
| Cabin Type | Units | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Housekeeping Cabins | 21 | Full kitchen, bathroom, linens, heat/AC |
| 🛖 Camper Cabins | 31 | Refrigerator, fire ring, picnic table, heat/AC |
| ✨ Glamping Cabins | 3 | Polished concrete floors, stone fire pit, modern rustic |
📅 Reservation Windows
- Housekeeping/Camper Cabins: Book up to 12 months ahead
- Teepees & Full Hookup Sites: Book up to 180 days ahead
- All cabins include linens and are available year-round
Pawnee Teepee Village
| Teepee Details | Information |
|---|---|
| 🏕️ Experience | Sleep in authentic-style teepees |
| 👥 Capacity | 6-8 people per teepee |
| 📅 Reservations | Up to 180 days in advance |
| 🔥 Amenities | Fire ring, unique glamping experience |
Camping – 48 Full Hookup Sites
| Campsite Details | Information |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Sites | 48 full hookup sites |
| 🚐 RV Length | Up to 50 feet |
| ⚡ Hookups | Electric, water, sewer |
| 🔥 Amenities | Table, fire ring, grill at each site |
| 📅 Season | Year-round (winter: some facilities limited) |
85-Foot Observation Tower
| Tower Features | Details |
|---|---|
| 📏 Height | 85 feet tall |
| 👀 Views | Platte River Valley panorama |
| 🗼 Second Tower | Additional tower near Walter Scott Jr. Lodge |
| 📸 Best Time | Sunset for golden hour photography |
Stone Creek Falls
| Waterfall Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 💧 Feature | Scenic waterfall in wooded ravine |
| 🥾 Access | Hiking trail from main park area |
| 📸 Tip | Best after rainfall for maximum flow |
| 🌲 Setting | Forested bluffs, peaceful atmosphere |
Activities & Trails
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Hiking | 10+ miles of trails through wooded bluffs |
| 🧒 Playground | Mini ziplines for kids! |
| 🍽️ Dining | Walter Scott Jr. Lodge Restaurant |
| 🎿 Nearby | Go Ape Zipline Park (~7 mi in Ashland) |
Park Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 💵 Entry | Nebraska Park Permit required ($6/day or $35/year) |
| 📐 Size | 418 acres |
| 📍 Location | 30 min from Omaha & Lincoln |
| 📅 Season | Year-round, peak Memorial Day–Labor Day |
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cabins are at Platte River State Park?
Platte River State Park offers 55 cabins in three categories: 21 housekeeping cabins with full kitchens and bathrooms, 31 camper cabins with refrigerators and outdoor fire rings, and 3 glamping cabins with polished concrete floors and modern rustic design. All cabins have heat and AC and are available year-round. Linens are provided. Book housekeeping cabins up to 12 months in advance!
Can you camp in teepees at Platte River State Park?
Yes! The Pawnee Teepee Village offers authentic-style teepee camping. Each teepee sleeps 6-8 people and includes a fire ring. It’s a unique glamping experience that kids especially love. Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance through Reserve America.
Is there a waterfall at Platte River State Park?
Yes! Stone Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall accessible via hiking trail. It’s set in a peaceful wooded ravine and is one of Nebraska’s hidden gems. The falls are especially impressive after rainfall. It’s a popular destination for hikers and photographers exploring the park’s 10+ miles of trails.
How tall is the observation tower?
The main observation tower at Platte River State Park stands 85 feet tall, offering panoramic views of the Platte River Valley. There’s also a second tower near the Walter Scott Jr. Lodge Restaurant. The best time to climb is at sunset for stunning golden hour photography of the valley below.
Is Platte River State Park open in winter?
Yes! The park is open year-round. All 55 cabins are heated and available throughout winter—making this a great cold-weather getaway. Campgrounds are also open, though shower houses may have limited hours. The trails, observation tower, and Stone Creek Falls are accessible in all seasons. Cross-country skiing is possible when snow conditions allow.
🏕️ Nebraska’s Premier Cabin Park
From glamping cabins to Pawnee teepees, climb the 85-foot tower, and hike to Stone Creek Falls—all just 30 minutes from Omaha. Visit the official Platte River State Park website for cabin availability and reservations.
