Visiting Eastern Nebraska in Your RV

As summer continues on, more people than ever are traveling all over America in their RVs. With many places in the Southeast and Southwest boasting very hot and/or humid temperatures, some travelers prefer to visit places in the northern areas of the country to escape the heat. However, some areas of the Midwest receive more mild summer temperatures, and one of those regions is Eastern Nebraska. Did you know that over seventy-five percent of Nebraska’s population lives in its easternmost region? Between the vibrant cities of Omaha and Lincoln and the nearby state parks, forests, and rolling prairies, there is so much to see and do in this popular area. Here, we will highlight the best activities, as well as some of our favorite eastern Nebraska Harvest Hosts locations in hopes of inspiring your next Midwestern adventure!

For RV camping in Nebraska, be sure to camp near:

  • Omaha, NE
  • Lincoln, NE
  • Indian Cave State Park

Places to Go

There are so many places to go and see in the region of eastern Nebraska, and here we have listed and detailed some of the best. Each of these places also has nearby camping opportunities, making it easier than ever to plan your next RV vacation to the area.

Photo credit: Visit Omaha

1. Omaha

As Nebraska’s largest city, Omaha has so much to offer. Between its plentiful parks, rich heritage, fascinating architecture, and excellent shopping and dining opportunities, you may even have trouble fitting everything into just one trip! When traveling to Omaha in your RV you will also find plentiful camping opportunities, as well. Below we have listed some of the most popular local attractions to help you start planning your vacation.

Photo credit: Visit Omaha

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is one of the country’s top zoos and houses over 500 different animal species. The zoo is also home to the world-renowned Living Amphitheater, with offers live shows every day at a variety of times (and around holidays). The zoo is open 365 days a year and is the perfect place to enjoy with your family.

When you are done visiting the zoo, nearby Rockbrook Village boasts plenty of shopping opportunities, as well as restaurants, fitness centers, grocery shopping opportunities, and more.

Photo Credit: Morrissey Engineering

Old Market

Old Market in Omaha is the most historic neighborhood in the region. It is home to some of the most popular restaurants, bars, art galleries, and shopping opportunities in the region. Be sure to stop by this national historic landmark to hear some live music and explore the surrounding areas. 

Photo Credit: Visit Omaha

Fontenelle Forest

Located in the heart of Omaha, Fontenelle Forest is a great place to explore the outdoors. Here, you can enjoy hiking trails and zip lining, as well as fishing, bird watching. and other wildlife viewing opportunities. This is one of the largest private nature preserves in the country. 

Photo Credit: Visit Omaha

Standing Bear Lake

Also located near Omaha, Standing Bear Lake offers many day-use water activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing and boating opportunities, or they can simply enjoy the scenery from one of the many walking paths surrounding the lake.

Photo Credit: Visit Omaha

2. Lincoln

Not too far from Omaha, Lincoln, Nebraska, serves as the state’s capital city. It offers many attractions and tourist destinations, such as Memorial Stadium (home to University of Nebraska Cornhuskers football), Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, State Capitol Building, Haymarket Park, Lied Jungle Exhibit at John Galt Museum, Spencer Art Gallery, and many more. Visitors to Lincoln tend to enjoy history, culture, shopping, dining, and a variety of outdoor experiences.

Photo Credit: Nebraska Realty

Haymarket District

Haymarket District is the liveliest tourist destination in Lincoln. It has many boutique shops, restaurants, and local artwork to see on display. Here, visitors can enjoy farmers’ markets (in season), a walking tour of the historic areas, breweries, restaurants, and much more. If you’re traveling with Fido, there is even a list of dog-friendly businesses to visit.

Photo Credit: A Brit and a Southerner

3. Indian Cave State Park

Indian Cave State Park is an excellent tourist destination for Eastern Nebraska travelers who are looking to explore the outdoors. It offers biking trails, campgrounds, and over twenty-two miles of hiking trails in one of Nebraska’s most popular state parks. 

The on-site campground offers partial hookups with 134 total RV sites located alongside the Missouri River. There is also a dump station and potable water available seasonally. RVers can enjoy camping from May through the end of October each year. Primitive camping is available year round. 

Photo Credit: Reserve America

Harvest Hosts Locations

When visiting eastern Nebraska, you’ll be delighted to find that there are many excellent Harvest Hosts locations to choose from, as well. Be sure to add just a few of these stops to your itinerary to make the trip even more special.

Tweed Couch – Omaha, NE

Located just across from Standing Bear Lake is Tweed Couch, a unique boutique location. Owner Diane has an eye for design and collects pieces to offer her customers. She specializes in antique furniture, one-of-a-kind gifts and home décor. The shop is located in a 100-year-old barn just outside of Omaha. This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly space for RVs under thirty-four feet in length. 

Slattery Vintage Estates – Nehawka, NE

Slattery Vintage Estates is a winery and wedding venue just outside of Council Bluffs. The main house and vineyards were established in the 1870s, and feature red brick, original woodwork, and studded plank floors.

Across the property from the winery are a collection of cottage-style buildings designed to provide accommodations for overnight visitors. They produce a variety of red, white, and rosé wines to suit almost any palette. Not a fan of alcohol? At Slattery Vintage Estates, you can also try some root beer, ginger beer, or iced tea. Visitors lucky enough to stay on a weekend may have the opportunity to order some wood-fired pizza prepared on-site. This Harvest Hosts location offers four pet-friendly spaces for RVs of any size.

Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard – Nebraska City, NE

First opened in 1925 by Richard Kimmel, Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard strives to maintain its same original quality to this day. While not owned by a Kimmel family member anymore, the present staff continues to welcome visitors from all over and loves educating folks about their farm. They offer U-Pick fruits seasonally, which includes red raspberries, blueberries, peaches, and apples. Their on-site store, The Apple Barn, offers homemade apple cider, fresh-baked goods, a few food options, and a variety of fruit wines. This Harvest Hosts location offers four pet-friendly spaces for RVs of any size.

The Golf Club at Table Creek – Nebraska City, NE

First opened in 1997, The Golf Club at Table Creek is one of Nebraska’s best-kept golf secrets. Their plush greens are built right into the rolling hills of the countryside and cover over 6,000 yards. They have an on-site Pro Shop stocked with equipment and apparel. They also offer a practice facility to improve your chipping or putting skills, along with a fantastic driving range. This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly space for RVs under forty-four feet in length.

SchillingBridge Winery and Microbrewery – Pawnee City, NE

SchillingBridge, owned by the Schillings, is a family business through and through. The property is a passion project turned business adventure by couple Mike and Sharon, with the couple’s adult children also helping out as well. At SchillingBridge, they produce a variety of beers, ciders, wines, and even root beer, to suit any palette. This is the only brewery, winery, and farm combination in eastern Nebraska! They regularly offer light fares and dinners during specific, seasonal hours. This Harvest Hosts location has four pet-friendly spaces available for RVs of any size.

Photo Credit: Visit Nebraska

Shepherd’s Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue – Pickrell, NE

Shepherd’s Rest owner Jen Schurman began working with therapy dogs about twenty years ago. Then, twelve years ago, she introduced goats into the therapy program and never looked back. Following this addition, she created an entire rescue dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of goats and sheep in need. The rescue’s goal is to continue to bring together people and animals with the goal of healing both parties. If you’d like to see the this rescue in action, they offer two pet-friendly spaces for RVs up to thirty-five feet in length. 

Knocknamon Stable and Ranch – Firth, NE

Traveling with a horse? Then this is the perfect Harvest Host stop. Even without a horse, this scenic location is a perfect overnight stay and base camp from which to explore the local area. Nick and Megan Nelson purchased their home in 2018 with one dog and two children. Soon they had three children, two dogs, horses, chickens, ducks, and cats, leading to the establishment of their ranch. Those traveling with horses can rent a night’s stay in a private pasture with electricity and access to water. In addition, they offer duck and chicken eggs for purchase, along with other goods. This Harvest Hosts location offers three pet-friendly spaces for RVs under forty-four feet in length. 

Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed – Lincoln, NE

Founded in 1992 by “Speedy” Bill and Joyce Smith, Speedway Motors Museum’s goal has always been to display and preserve automotive and racing history. Nearly thirty years later, their four sons continue to run the business today. Here, visitors can view a variety of vehicles, engines, and toys, while learning about the people who made the industry what it is today. This Harvest Hosts location offers two pet-friendly spaces for RVs of any size. 

Thornridge Golf Course – Milford, NE

This nine-hole course offers a two-level layout where golfers will encounter a winding creek and a few blind spots. According to many avid golfers, Thornridge is one of the best nine hole layouts in the state. If you have forgotten your clubs, the on-site shop has golf clubs for rent, along with other gear for purchase in their pro shop. This Harvest Hosts offers one pet-friendly space for RVs under twenty-nine feet in length. 

Anchor Meadow Farm – Milford, NE

Anchor Meadow Farm is a year-round farm that offers locals a variety of fresh farm products, produce, and seasonal family-friendly events. Here, they sell eggs, honey and bee products, farm-raised pork, and local crafts. Be sure to stop by and visit with their beautiful breed of Kunekune pigs. This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly space for RVs under thirty-five feet in length. 

Diamond B Horse Motel – York, NE

The Diamond B Horse Motel is open to those traveling with or without horses. The best way to support this Host is by using their electrical hookups for a donation, offering a standard donation, or purchasing something from their Amazon wishlist. All donations go towards making improvements to the property for future guests. While here, members can also visit the owner’s horses, donkeys, cats, dogs, and hens. This Harvest Hosts location offers five pet-friendly spaces for RVs of any size.

Memories by Kim – Monroe, NE

Lifelong photographer Kim, has professionally photographed portraits for clients for nearly thirty years. Her husband Marv’s original passion lied with farming, but he left that industry to support Kim’s photography business. Together, this dynamic duo builds and designs their own backgrounds and offer the photoshoots together. At some point, all of their seven children have helped with the photography business in some way. If you won’t be scheduling a photography session, the next best ways to support this Host is by purchasing something from their shop. Memories by Kim offers three pet-friendly spaces for RVs of any size. 

Pfanny’s Farm – Randolph, NE

Owners Gene and Julie have always had a love for gardening and growing healthy, home-grown produce. Every year they re-evaluate their farming practices to ensure they’re providing their customers with the best possible products. In addition to seasonal produce for sale, they have a market that partners with a variety of local businesses to offer even more selections. This Harvest Hosts location offers two pet-friendly spaces for RVs of any size and is not to be missed. 

The prairie state of Nebraska is often overlooked by air travelers, but it can be a great destination for RVers. Eastern Nebraska offers some scenic views and activities that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. Consider heading to eastern Nebraska on your next vacation across America!

Photo Credit: Beautiful Places

Have you taken your RV to Nebraska? What are things you find special about the state? Tell us about it in the comments below!

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