Park FAQs

Peak season rates

Nebraska’s state parks, state historical parks and state recreation areas offer five different levels of camping: full hookup ($35 per night); electric plus ($30 per night); electric ($25 per night); basic ($15 per night); and primitive ($10 per night). These rates are consistent across all parks throughout the state with the exception of Lake McConaughy, which is subject to an additional $2 per night.

Peak season at Nebraska’s state park areas generally runs from mid-October through April annually. However, specific dates vary from park to park each year based on factors such as weather conditions and seasonal park events. During peak season, camping reservations can be made at reservable campsites up to 180 days in advance. Reservation information specific to each park can be found within the Nebraska Game and Parks reservation system.

Lake McConaughy peak season

Reservations are required to camp at Lake McConaughy SRA during its peak season from May 20-Sept. 10.

Non-peak season rates

Camping rates during the off-season are $5 less per night for all site types, except primitive rates that remain $10/night year-round. Most modern facilities such as full-hookup service, showers, modern restrooms, dump and fill stations will typically be closed from mid-October through mid-April depending on weather. Specific dates will vary from park to park. Consult the park location directly for information regarding off-season services.

Additional information and downloadable camping rates can be found on our park pricing page.

Yes, a valid Park Entry Permit is required for any motorized vehicle to enter any Nebraska state park, state historical park or state recreation area.

From severe storms and flooding to wildfire risk and winter conditions, changing weather can impact access to park roads, campgrounds, and facilities with little notice. During drought conditions, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission may also implement a temporary ban on campfires. Stay up to date on current closures, weather advisories and campfires bans by visiting our Closures and Safety Advisories page.

You may make reservation by calling 1-844-637-2757 (1-844-NEPARKS) between 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Saturday and Sunday. The call center is closed on state holidays. Online reservations may be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Reservations are accepted for cabins, lodge rooms, and group lodges up to one year in advance of the arrival date at 9 a.m. CT. Reservations for camping are accepted up to 180 days in advance of arrival date at 9 a.m. CT. For more information regarding our reservation policies, please visit our reservations page.

Campers can generally check in to campsites any time after 4 p.m. and must check out by 2 p.m. on the final day of their stay. Check-in and checkout times may vary by park. Please call the specific park ahead of time or check the hours posted at the park for verification.

Self-service boxes are available for depositing fees when the entry station is not staffed.

In order to create fair camping opportunities for as many guests as possible, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission updated its campground reservation policy in 2017. More information on the campground policy is available on the campground policy page.

If you sell or trade your vehicle, or if your windshield needs replaced, the park permit may be removed in pieces and mailed or brought in person to one of our Commission offices or park locations for a free replacement. It does not need to remain intact, and any available pieces should be included with the replacement request.

Water typically gets turned on around April 15, after the last freeze, and remains on until the first freeze (usually late October or early November).

No, fires can only be built in designated areas.

Camp stoves using liquid or gas fuel are permitted as they reduce the likelihood of ash or hot charcoal being discarded before they are extinguished. These types of stoves also do not produce blowing embers, further reducing wildfire potential.

Find more information about permitted and prohibited fire sources during burn bans, along with fire safety protocols, on our fire safety page.

Yes, there is a $25 one-time pet fee per unit for pets staying in cabins. Service animals are exempt. Pets are not allowed in the lodge rooms; however, pets are allowed in campgrounds. All animals within the park must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, crated or caged.

No, public buildings, designated swimming beaches and pools are off-limits to all animals except Seeing Eye and service dogs. At select park areas, such as Lake McConaughy SRA, dogs must be maintained on a leash to protect endangered species nesting areas (Least Tern and Piping Plover).

Amateur photography and videography, including nature photography and videography, family, wedding and senior photography, and recreational photography are permitted in state parks and recreation areas. Commercial photography and videography that involve models, sets and props for the purpose of promoting goods, services or brands require a special occasion permit.

ATVs are not permitted. Golf carts and motorized scooters are allowed if you have a Motorized Transportation Device Permit.

Alcohol is permitted at all parks except at Lake McConaughy, Lake Ogallala and Willow Creek State Recreation areas. Consumption of alcoholic beverage is prohibited at all park areas owned or controlled by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. (quiet hours), unless specifically authorized by an approved Special Occasion Permit.

Consumption or possession of an open container is prohibited on all roadways, designated swimming areas and parking areas. Consumption or possession of alcohol may also be prohibited in any portions of park areas where signage indicates that alcohol is not allowed. No containers over one gallon are allowed.

Three state recreation areas, Branched Oak, Pawnee and Wagon Train, may allow fireworks in designated areas from 8 a.m. to midnight on July 4 if conditions allow. Decisions are made near to July 4 based on current drought conditions and local fire department authority.

Only fireworks approved for sale in Nebraska by the State Fire Marshal are permitted to be brought into the SRAs that allow fireworks. Fireworks are not permitted the remainder of the year.

No, Nebraska does not offer any camping/lodging discounts for veterans, handicapped or senior citizens.

Select cabin locations feature reduced off-season pricing, and camping is discounted by $5 per night when water systems are shut off for the season.

Nebraska also has a Free Park and Fish Day for residents and nonresidents.

Yes, a Special Occasion Permit may be requested by individuals or groups who would like to utilize our areas for events including but not limited to: weddings, fishing tournaments, 5k runs, fundraisers, Boy Scout events, scientific studies, commercial filming, geocache placements, etc.

State parks are public use areas of significant scenic, scientific and/or historical values and of sufficient size to allow adequate development. From our standpoint, state parks are destination areas. They have many amenities available daily to guests, ranging from swimming and paddle boating to horse trail rides and jeep rides. Entertainment is offered and it is up to the guest how much or little they would like to participate.

State recreation areas possess resource values primarily associated with active outdoor recreation pursuits, day-use activities and camping. All the state’s major water-oriented areas fall in this classification. State recreation areas are mainly situated along bodies of water. Guests provide their own entertainment, primarily fishing and boating.

State historical parks are sites that have notable historical significance to the state of Nebraska. State historical parks offer a chance for cultural interpretation. Living history demonstrations are periodically staged and guests can tour the historic grounds and buildings.

Visit our careers page to view open jobs at state parks and recreation areas, as well as throughout the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.