When someone mentions Nebraska, your first thought is probably a flat landscape and sprawling farms. While these areas do exist, visitors camping in Nebraska will discover that his state has so much more to offer. From magical waterfalls and dramatic bluffs to peaceful rivers and otherworldly rock formations, Nebraska is packed full of hidden gems.

1. Carhenge

Wikimedia Commons/Jacob Kamholz

Inspired by England’s Stonehenge, Carhenge is located near Alliance, Nebraska. The artist, Jim Reinders, often experimented with unique art forms, and he created this masterpiece using 38 cars saved from dumps and farms in the nearby area.

2. Sunken Gardens

These beautiful gardens were created around 85 years ago in Lincoln Nebraska. Both lush and fragrant, the seasonal flowers, inspiring art, charming Koi ponds, and calming waterfall make this the ideal place for an easy stroll.

3. Toadstool Geologic Park

Wikimedia Commons/Brian Kell

Named for the toadstool-like formations, this park features a nice mixture of prairie, forests, and badlands. Toadstool can be found in the Oglala National Grasslands and offers an interpretive trail and picnicking. The park is far away from any city lights so this is a great place to view the night sky.

4. Indian Cave State Park

Flickr/RLEVANS

This park boasts 3,052 acres of rugged land bordering the beautiful Missouri River. The main attraction is Indian Cave which contains prehistoric Native American petroglyphs. Visitors can view the cave via a wooden boardwalk. There are 22 miles of excellent hiking and biking trails in the park and 16 miles of equestrian trails.

5. Chimney Rock

As one of the more popular attractions in Nebraska, you’ve probably heard of Chimney Rock. This impressive rock formation towers more than 300 feet above the North Platte River Valley and is a famous stop along the Oregon Trail.

6. Niobrara National Scenic River

Wikimedia Commons/Ammodramus

The Niobrara River boasts 76 miles of stunning waterfalls and exquisite bluffs. Diverse wildlife can be seen both on the water and the shore, and the river itself offers tons of opportunities for water recreation. Niobrara is also a hotspot for fossil deposits with more than 160 paleontology sites in the area.

7. Smith Falls State Park

Home to Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, Smith Falls, this park is popular for its kayaking, tubing, canoeing, and hiking. The waterfall plunges nearly 70 feet into the Niobrara River and is definitely worthy of a photo or two.

8. Scotts Bluff National Monument

Flickr/Ken Lund

Scotts Bluff rises 800 feet about the North Platte River and is the ideal place to check out if you’re a history buff. Serving as a landmark for those traveling both the Mormon Trail and the Oregon Trail, this 3,000 acre monument offers scenic views, hiking trails, a picnic area, and ranger programs.

9. Snake River Falls

Wikimedia Commons/Ammodramus

Cascading over a 54-foot-wide ledge within a deep canyon, Snake River Falls is the perfect place to spend a hot summer day or relax in solitude during the winter months. Visitors can gaze at this spectacular waterfall from above or hop on a hiking trail and venture right down to the falls.

Where to Camp in Nebraska

If you’re looking for a centrally located campground to call your home while you explore these beautiful locations, Arnold Motel and Camp, located in Arnold, is the ideal spot. Offering 4 motel rooms, 5 RV sites, and primitive tent sites, this quiet campground is great for a weekend or a longer stay. Book your stay online at Arnold Motel and Camp on Camp Native!