Memphis State Recreation Area - Image 1
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Memphis State Recreation Area

4.4
·227 reviews·Memphis, United States

A hidden gem near Omaha offering tranquil lake camping, stargazing, and peaceful outdoor escapes.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Cooler temps, fewer bugs

CrowdLow
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Memphis State Recreation Area - Image 1

Memphis State Recreation Area

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Cooler temps, fewer bugs

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A hidden gem near Omaha offering tranquil lake camping, stargazing, and peaceful outdoor escapes.

4.4
(227 reviews)

"Great place to camp. Very quiet and the lake scene is beautiful. Extremely relaxing weekend."

Vertical photo
TIP

🔋 Check Hookups Before Booking

Confirm electrical hookup functionality for your chosen site, especially if AC is crucial. :warning:

💨 Be Aware of Nearby Feedlot

On windy days, a scent from a nearby feedlot may be noticeable. :wind_face:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Lake Camping

Tranquil Lake Camping

Campgrounds surrounding the lake

Pitch your tent or park your RV by the water for a peaceful retreat. Ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature.

Stargazing Opportunities

Stargazing Opportunities

Open areas away from light pollution

Experience surprisingly dark skies, perfect for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers.

Lakeside Walks

Lakeside Walks

Path around the lake

Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the unpaved, flat path encircling the lake, offering scenic views.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Memphis State Recreation Area offers a serene escape with camping, kayaking, and stargazing. Be prepared for potential wind-borne scents from a nearby feedlot, especially on warmer days. Check electrical hookup status for your specific site before arrival to ensure a comfortable stay.

Camping Comforts & Considerations

While primitive restrooms are available and generally well-maintained, some campers have reported issues with electrical hookups. Respecting designated parking and leash policies for pets ensures a pleasant experience for everyone. Bug spray is recommended around dusk.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Cooler temps, fewer bugs
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer weekends
Why
Lively, but can be crowded
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Favorite camping spots in or near Omaha?

🔋 Check Hookups Before Booking

Confirm electrical hookup functionality for your chosen site, especially if AC is crucial. :warning:

💨 Be Aware of Nearby Feedlot

On windy days, a scent from a nearby feedlot may be noticeable. :wind_face:

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy the Lake Loop

The unpaved path around the lake is about 1.8 miles and offers pleasant views. :walking:

🐶 Respect Pet Policies

Most visitors appreciate the leash policy for dogs. :dog:

Tips

from all over the internet

🔋 Check Hookups Before Booking

Confirm electrical hookup functionality for your chosen site, especially if AC is crucial. :warning:

💨 Be Aware of Nearby Feedlot

On windy days, a scent from a nearby feedlot may be noticeable. :wind_face:

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy the Lake Loop

The unpaved path around the lake is about 1.8 miles and offers pleasant views. :walking:

🐶 Respect Pet Policies

Most visitors appreciate the leash policy for dogs. :dog:

🦟 Pack Bug Spray

Mosquitoes can be present around dusk, especially during warmer months. :bug:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(227 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Memphis State Recreation Area is praised as a clean, well-maintained, and quiet park offering a beautiful lake setting for camping and relaxation. Visitors enjoy the stargazing opportunities and the peaceful atmosphere. However, some campers have encountered issues with non-functional electrical hookups and noted a potential odor from a nearby feedlot on windy days.

"A fun place to camp no matter the time of year!"

THE WOOD LIFE

"Clean well maintained hidden little park and lake near Omaha. We had a great time here but be warned there is a feed lot nearby so on a windy day might catch a whiff. Decent dark sky if interested in astronomy pics"

Jeffrey Heldridge

"Great place to camp. Very quiet and the lake scene is beautiful. Extremely relaxing weekend, Kayaking and resting outside by the camper. The only problem we had was with the electrical hookups. The 30 AMP circuit did not work on Camper site 68, so we spent the weekend in extremely hot weather, without the use of our AC. We tried calling the number but only got voicemail. / Spent $30 each night without the ability to stay cool.
We also didn't appreciate people parking in a spot next to their camper, just to keep others from setting up and blocking their view."

Teresa Brestel

What People Like

Quiet and relaxing atmosphere
Beautiful lake setting
Good stargazing

What People Dislike

Electrical hookup issues
Feedlot odor on windy days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Memphis State Recreation Area is located about an hour's drive from Omaha. Travelers often find it a worthwhile drive for its quiet atmosphere and water access, distinguishing it from closer, potentially busier spots. Reddit

While it's described as a 'hidden little park,' it's generally accessible by car. GPS navigation is recommended to ensure you reach the correct location. Reddit

The drive is typically straightforward, often involving highways for a significant portion. It's considered a good option for those seeking camping spots within an hour's drive of Omaha. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry typically involves a fee, especially for camping. Reviews mention paying around $30 per night for campsites with electrical hookups. Reddit

As a recreation area with camping, it's generally accessible for overnight stays. Specific day-use hours might vary, but camping is available year-round. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in the provided information, booking in advance is often recommended for popular camping spots, especially during peak season. Reddit

Information on discounts is not readily available, but it's always worth checking official park websites or inquiring directly if you qualify for any special rates. Reddit

🎫 🏕️ Camping & Facilities

The area offers camping with both electrical hookups and primitive options. Campers have enjoyed setting up by the lake for a relaxing experience. Reddit+1

Primitive restrooms are available and generally considered well-maintained. Information on showers is not explicitly provided, but they are not a common feature at all primitive sites. Reddit

Yes, pets are generally allowed, but visitors appreciate when owners adhere to the 6-foot leash policy, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all. Reddit

Campers have access to dumpsters and can enjoy the lake for activities like kayaking. Some sites offer electrical hookups, though functionality can vary. Reddit+1

Information on Wi-Fi or reliable cell service is not provided. It's advisable to assume limited connectivity and download any necessary maps or information beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Activities & Recreation

Popular activities include camping, kayaking on the lake, enjoying quiet relaxation, and stargazing due to the relatively dark skies. Reddit+1

While the lake is present and used for kayaking, information regarding swimming suitability or designated swimming areas is not provided. Reddit

A pleasant, unpaved, flat grass path around the lake offers a walking opportunity, approximately 1.8 miles long. Reddit

Visitors have noted the presence of geese, often described as cute and respectful, with minimal droppings. Reddit

Fishing opportunities are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews, but lakes in recreation areas often support fishing. It's best to check local regulations. Reddit

🎫 ❓ Other Considerations

A nearby feedlot can cause a noticeable smell on windy days. Campers suggest being aware of this possibility, especially during warmer weather. Reddit

While some visitors find it quiet and a 'hidden gem,' others note it can get crowded, particularly on weekends. Personal preference for solitude plays a role. Reddit

Visiting during weekdays or off-peak seasons is recommended for a quieter, more secluded experience, as weekends can attract more visitors. Reddit+1

Some campers have reported non-functional 30 AMP electrical hookups on specific sites, leading to discomfort during hot weather. It's advised to verify functionality. Reddit

One review mentioned issues with people parking in adjacent spots to reserve views, which can be frustrating for other campers. Respecting designated parking is key. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Memphis State Recreation Area can be a fun spot for families looking for an outdoor adventure. The lake offers opportunities for gentle water activities like kayaking, and the flat walking path around it is easy for little legs to manage. Primitive restrooms are available, which can be convenient for families. Visitors have noted that the geese are generally respectful and cute, adding to the natural charm for children. Reddit

To ensure a smooth trip, it's wise to pack plenty of bug spray, especially for dusk, and to be prepared for potential smells from the nearby feedlot on windy days. If camping, double-checking the functionality of electrical hookups is crucial, particularly if you plan to use air conditioning for younger children's comfort. Overall, it's a good option for a family camping trip focused on simple outdoor enjoyment. Reddit

🏕️ Budget-Conscious Campers

For those seeking an affordable camping experience near Omaha, Memphis State Recreation Area offers a compelling option. While there are sites with electrical hookups that come at a higher price point (around $30 per night), the availability of primitive camping provides a more budget-friendly choice. The primitive restrooms are noted as being decent and well-maintained, offering basic facilities without the added cost of full hookups. Reddit+1

The natural beauty and recreational opportunities, such as walking the lake loop and enjoying the quiet atmosphere, are free once you've paid your camping fee. This makes it an excellent destination for campers who prioritize nature and tranquility over extensive amenities. Just be mindful of potential issues with electrical hookups if you opt for those sites, and consider bringing extra power banks or alternative cooling methods if needed. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Camping at Memphis State Recreation Area

Memphis State Recreation Area is a popular spot for campers seeking a peaceful getaway near Omaha. The area offers a mix of camping options, including sites with electrical hookups and more primitive spots. Many campers rave about the beautiful lake setting, perfect for setting up a camper or tent right by the water. It's described as a 'clean well maintained hidden little park,' making it an attractive destination for those looking to escape the city.

However, potential campers should be aware of a few considerations. Some reviews highlight issues with the functionality of electrical hookups, with one camper experiencing a non-working 30 AMP circuit on site 68. It's advisable to confirm the status of hookups before booking, especially if you rely on air conditioning. Additionally, a nearby feedlot can sometimes cause an odor, particularly on windy days. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment is positive, with many finding it a great place for a relaxing weekend. Reddit+1

For those who prefer a more rustic experience, primitive restrooms are available and generally kept clean. The unpaved path around the lake, about 1.8 miles long, provides a pleasant route for a walk. Visitors also appreciate the respect shown for pet policies, with most dogs kept on leashes. While it can get crowded on weekends, visiting during weekdays can offer a more serene and secluded camping experience. Reddit+1

Outdoor Activities and Nature

The primary draw of Memphis State Recreation Area is its natural setting, centered around a tranquil lake. Kayaking is a popular activity, allowing visitors to explore the water and enjoy the scenic views from a different perspective. The lake's calm waters make it ideal for a leisurely paddle. For those who prefer to stay on land, a well-maintained, unpaved path encircles the lake, offering a roughly 1.8-mile loop for walking or a gentle jog. This path provides lovely vistas of the water and surrounding landscape. Reddit+1

Beyond the immediate lake activities, the recreation area is noted for its surprisingly good stargazing opportunities. Away from the dense light pollution of the city, the night sky becomes a canvas for celestial observation, making it a potential spot for amateur astronomers or anyone interested in astrophotography. While not explicitly mentioned as a primary feature, the presence of geese adds a touch of local wildlife to the environment, often described as a pleasant and unobtrusive part of the natural ambiance. Reddit

It's worth noting that while the area is praised for its natural beauty, it's also situated near agricultural operations. This proximity means that on windy days, a scent from a nearby feedlot can be present. Visitors should be aware of this possibility, especially during warmer months when the wind patterns might be more pronounced. Despite this, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive for those seeking outdoor recreation and a connection with nature. Reddit

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