Louisville Sra
00 review15810 Hwy. 50, Louisville, Nebraska, 68037-2880, United States
Louisville Sra
$6.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nebraska State Park Permit is required: $30 annually for Nebraska licensed vehicles or $60 annually for out-of-state vehicles. Daily permits are $6 for Nebraska vehicles or $12 for out-of-state vehicles. Campsite fees vary by type from $6 to $60.
About this campground
Nestled along 192 acres of Nebraska's scenic landscape, Louisville State Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its five shimmering sandpit lakes and diverse camping options. Whether you're pulling in with a fully-equipped RV, seeking a powered site for your tent, or yearning for a primitive backcountry experience, this versatile destination delivers. Cast a line for bass and bluegill, take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters, or paddle peacefully across mirror-like lakes in your kayak or canoe. With direct access to the mighty Platte River and ample picnic areas shaded by mature trees, Louisville SRA transforms every visit into an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Louisville State Recreation Area offers diverse camping accommodations, including RV, tent, and primitive camping options.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Nebraska's dynamic seasons at Louisville SRA, where summer temperatures climb to a pleasant 87°F—perfect for swimming and water sports—while winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland with temperatures dipping to a crisp 18°F. Spring and fall paint the cottonwoods in spectacular colors, though seasonal precipitation can add its own character to your camping experience. Each season unveils a different facet of this recreational gem, from sun-drenched summer days on the water to peaceful autumn mornings shrouded in river mist.
ElevationSet within Nebraska's gently rolling river valley terrain, Louisville SRA rests at the convergence of prairie and riverine ecosystems, creating unique microclimates perfect for diverse recreational activities.
Natural Features and SceneryFive pristine sandpit lakes sparkle like jewels beneath towering cottonwood sentinels, their branches creating natural cathedral ceilings that filter golden sunlight onto the water below. This aquatic paradise teems with life—largemouth bass lurk in the shadows, channel catfish patrol the depths, and schools of bluegill dart through sun-dappled shallows. The surrounding landscape bursts with native prairie grasses that dance in the breeze, while the nearby Platte River adds its ancient song to nature's symphony. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting deer at dawn, great blue herons stalking the shorelines, and countless songbirds filling the air with their melodies.
Geological RegionPerched on the south bank of the legendary Platte River in Cass County, Louisville SRA showcases the fascinating geology of Nebraska's river country. These five sandpit lakes, carved by decades of sand and gravel mining, have been transformed by nature into thriving aquatic ecosystems. Majestic cottonwoods—some centuries old—stand as living monuments to the river's fertile floodplain, their massive trunks telling stories of floods, droughts, and the endless cycle of seasons. This unique blend of human-altered landscape and natural reclamation offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience both the raw power of the Platte River and the serene beauty of spring-fed lakes, all within a single remarkable destination.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers handicap access as part of its amenities, such as paved roads and areas.
Sites SizeCampsites include large RV pads and smaller, shaded spots for tents.
Sites PrivacySome sites provide a good level of privacy due to shade and spacing, while others are noted to be close to one another.
Total Campsites311 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent camping spots are not drive-up accessible, but parking is close. RV sites offer level concrete pads, some shaded.
Best CampsitesSite #267, as noted in reviews, offers shaded areas near sandbars and trails. Riverview campground is recommended for shade and proximity.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in schedule varies by site type.
Check-out
Check-out schedule varies by site type.
Stay Limit
Maximum 180 days in advance for reservations.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type, tent sites allow multiple tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes primitive, RV, and electrical hookup sites spread across multiple areas. Primitive sites are non-designated.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Winter operations are limited to two pit toilets.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at OutdoorNebraska.org, via phone, or at onsite facilities.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability during peak weekends; seldom available without reservations, especially for RV sites.
Cancellation PolicyUnused portions of payments are forfeited if checked out early.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Louisville State Recreation Area is a hub for various recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, hiking, and non-motorized boating. Families can also enjoy wildlife viewing, playgrounds, and a floating water obstacle course.
Hiking
There are trails available, including some along the Platte River, which offer scenic views. The difficulty levels of the trails are not specified.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity here, with lakes stocked with bass, bluegill, catfish, and carp. Fishing docks, including shaded ones, are available.Swimming
A designated swimming area is available at Lake No. 2, featuring a shallow roped-off zone and a floating water playground for children. Clean changing rooms are located nearby.Biking
The park is bicycle-friendly, with paved paths and roads suitable for riders of all ages.Boating
Non-motorized boats and electric-motor boats are permitted on the lakes. Rentals for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards are also available.Wildlife viewing
The area is surrounded by cottonwood trees and provides opportunities for bird watching and wildlife observation.Beach activities
The park features a sandy beach near the swimming area, ideal for sunbathing and family picnics.Winter Activities
Limited activities due to the closure of most facilities during winter, except for vault toilets.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are supported. Rentals available on-site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings provided; regulations on open flames not specified.
- Quiet hours are enforced but inconsistently according to reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsFreight trains nearby may disrupt sleep. Seasonal flooding impacts river access. Vandalism has affected facilities in the past.
Active alertsWinter offers reduced amenities with limited toilets. Seasonal flooding has disrupted river trails.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services, including police and medical facilities, are less than 1 mile away in Louisville. The nearest hospital is more than 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day constitutes peak season.
Trash and recyclingAmple dumpsters are available throughout the park, making it easy for campers to manage trash. Recycling information is not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to five lakes and the Platte River. Swimming at Lake No. 2, canoeing and kayaking available.
Common complaintsFrequent train noise is a major issue. Crowding during peak weekends and holidays has been noted. Facilities cleanliness is inconsistent.
HostCampground hosts available onsite. Concession operators offer supplies and snacks.
Campground Map
15810 Hwy. 50, Louisville, Nebraska, 68037-2880, United States
Driving directionsFrom Omaha: Take Exit 440 from I-80 south on Hwy 50 to 1 block south of Main Street Louisville and turn right into the park. From Lincoln: Take Exit 426 from I-80. Go east on Hwy 66 to Hwy 50, Left on Hwy 50 or North 2 miles. Turn left into the Park.
Accessible year-round with connections to major highways. Roads are paved and well-maintained. Seasonal closures are not noted.Nearby places
Louisville (less than 1 mile), Omaha (approximately 20 miles), Lincoln (approximately 40 miles), Ashland (approximately 15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores are located within a mile, and camping supplies can be purchased at the onsite convenience store or within Louisville. Fuel stations are also nearby.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Louisville Sra has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Louisville State Recreation Area are mixed, with many highlighting the variety of activities and cleanliness of the facilities. However, frequent train noise and occasional overcrowding during peak times are common complaints.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the wide range of activities, including fishing, swimming, and hiking. The availability of clean restrooms, family-friendly amenities, and the scenic environment are frequently...
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Common Concerns
Many users mention the disruptive noise from nearby train tracks, which can disturb sleep. Overcrowding during holidays and weekends is another noted issue. Some reviews highlight poor enforcement of...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs to deal with train noise. Make camping reservations well in advance, especially for large groups. Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. If primitive camping, ensure you're prepared to...
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Seasonal Insights
The park is busiest during summer weekends and holidays, leading to some overcrowding complaints. Winters see limited restroom availability, with only vault toilets in use.
Camper Quotes
"Louisville is always fun. Easy-going, laid-back, and nicely well-kept." "The train noise is relentless—every 30 minutes all night long." "Great place for family camping, fishing, and swimming."
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #267 received positive feedback for its proximity to the Platte River and spacious layout.
Accessibility Features
Paved roads and easy access to restrooms make the park accommodating for individuals with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on leashes. Dogs are not permitted in the beach area.
Last updated August 10, 2025