Camping is a classic togetherness activity, but what if you can't stand fiddling with tent poles and sleeping bags? Glamping in Nebraska could be the answer - it's camping, but the accommodations are comfortable and, in some cases, even luxurious. Whether you're looking for a cheap weekend getaway in Nebraska or you're making plans for your next long-awaited adventure, these spots provide an elevated experience that lets you enjoy nature...but from a slight distance.
Glamping specialists Tentrr partnered with Nebraska State Parks to bring glamping sites to three state parks. Ponca State Park is one of those, and it's a must for everyone who loves this picturesque part of Nebraska. The Missouri River views are positively stunning. Get more information and book your stay right here.
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2. Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area Tentrr sites, Loup City
If you're looking for a weekend of fishing to go with your glamping getaway, Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area has just the place for you. Stay at one of the park's Tentrr sites and make it your home base for a stay that's full of fun and nature. Learn more and book your stay right here.
3. Louisville State Recreation Area Tentrr site, Louisville
Louisville State Recreation Area is the third and final Nebraska State Park featuring Tentrr sites. The canvas tents with wooden platforms are a wonderful place to rest before spending a day on the water. If you're visiting in the summer, don't pass up the chance to play on the huge inflatable water park. Find out more about the tent site and book your own stay right here.
Slattery Vintage Estates, a vineyard and winery just outside of Nehawka, was the first spot in Nebraska to offer a permanent glamping setup. There are several tents to choose from with a variety of bed sizes and amenities, though every one of them will result in an unforgettable stay. Read more about the vineyard and reserve a glamping tent at this unique destination right here - just be aware that the campsites are ages 21+ only.
The Dancing Crane Writing Center & Artist Retreat Yurt near Gibbon may be the state's only rental yurt. Located 20 minutes from Kearney, the yurt is right on the flight path of the sandhill cranes during their annual migration. This is an excellent place to hole up for a weekend and reconnect with nature. See more photos, read about the yurt, and book your own stay right here.
You might expect to have to leave the city to find a fun glamping experience, but these tents at Lake Cunningham prove differently. They're a little bit of luxury in a suburban setting, and they're all Instagram-worthy. Find out more, including how to book a tent during the summer camping season, on Lake Cunningham's site.
What could be better after a day of sampling delicious wine than a sleep in a luxurious glamping tent? Oak Haven Vineyard near Plattsmouth lets you spend the night so you don't have to worry about a designated driver. Each tent comes with a wooden deck, a fire pit to share, and most of the comforts you would expect to find in a hotel room. Read more about the glamping tents on Oak Haven Vineyard's website.
If you're the kind of vacationer who likes to make new friends on your travels, this adorable vintage camper is an ideal place to book a stay. You'll wake up and meet your neighbors: the goats and sheep that inhabit Shepherd's Rest Goat and Sheep Rescue. The experience is adorable, educational, and uplifting. Book your own stay on VRBO - and if you're lucky, you may be able to stay during a time when goat yoga or another fun event is going on.
Not all affordable glamping getaways in Nebraska are tents. This teeny-tiny bunkhouse is located on a scenic farm called Stubby Acres, and it's the ultimate couple's weekend getaway. Read more about the farm and the tiny house on Stubby Acres Bunkhouse's Airbnb listing.
An even more unusual accommodation awaits at Two Rivers State Recreation Area near Waterloo. This park has plenty to do in the daytime, and then you can retreat to a retired Union Pacific caboose overnight. The glamping cabooses feature little lofts that are perfect for kids. Book your stay on ReserveAmerica.
We didn't think we could be surprised by unusual Airbnbs anymore, but this one managed to do just that. It's not every day that you see an old Ford Aerostar parked at the edge of an alfalfa field. If budget is your primary concern, you'll be pleased to know that this is the least expensive accommodation on this list. Book a stay at this one-of-a-kind Airbnb on its booking page.
Most of these glamping destinations are only open for part of the year, so be sure to plan accordingly. Have you ever visited any of these cheap weekend getaways in Nebraska? Tell us about it in the comments! If you have other glamping recommendations, tell us about them on our Nominations form.
Visiting the Cornhusker State as a vacation spot may sound a little "out there" at first thought, but really, Nebraska is a magical getaway spot. Our state is home to verdant rolling hills, show-stopping plateaus, and some of the prettiest sunsets known to man. A Nebraska getaway or staycation is a true treat, and there's one Airbnb near Omaha that makes getaways memorable. Despite a population of nearly half a million people, this luxury cabin in Omaha manages to feel secluded and remote.
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Have you ever thought about framing up the next family reunion as a family vacation? If not, you may want to put something on the calendar, because this Airbnb near Omaha is going to knock your socks off. Part luxury cabin, part luxury escape, this spacious home can sleep more than 16 guests. Plus, since it's overlooking Lake Wanahoo, you'll appreciate some time to reconnect with nature in a memorable way.
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With perfectly manicured grounds and no shortage of trees, you'll be immersed in a sea of greenery as soon as you arrive. Barbecue utensils allow you to make the most of your time outside, and a hammock, fire pit, and kayak allow you to relax however you'd like. There's also a community pool if staring at the expanse of Lake Wanahoo makes you get the itch to make a splash. With a private backyard and balcony, spending time in nature is so easy that you might forget to grab your phone off the table... there's just so much to do!
Inside, traditional cabin vibes meet pure luxury with a wide-open space and high ceilings. Everything is done up in gorgeous natural wood, and chandelier fixtures infuse a touch of modern class into the space. You'll love the wide windows that bring a dose of nature inside, and a 52-inch TV will be available for any nature documentaries or soundtracks you'd like. Board games help set up the perfect family game night, while reading material gives you the perfect excuse to tap out and hang out if grandma beats you at Monopoly again and you need an excuse to steal away.
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Across five bedrooms, there are 20 total beds to host your whole crew. Two bedrooms each have four bunk beds, so if you're likely to snore, that's something you might want to mention to your whole travel crew before sleeping arrangements are decided. As this Omaha Airbnb is only $779 a night, you can easily divide up the cost and turn this getaway into a budget-friendly escape. If you're planning a Nebraska getaway with the girls or a men's weekend on the lake, that comes out to less than $40 per person each night.
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You'll love spending time in nature here. From outside dining to kayaking on the lake to quiet sunbathing in that spacious yard, the luxury cabin might just become your next favorite getaway. You'll love features in the immediate area like the Lake Wanahoo Park, Wahoo Distillery, and all the fun happening in Wahoo. Of course, it's totally understandable if you decide to stay at your luxury cabin for most of the trip - there's just so much to love here!
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With a gorgeous interior and absolutely breathtaking landscape, this luxury cabin near Omaha is an absolute treat to visit. Truly, it speaks to why vacations in Nebraska are so memorable... Whether you're in a remote part of the state or one where crowds are more common, you'll love getting away and having fun in this gorgeous state.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
