Glenn Cunningham Lake

For those of us living in Omaha and across Nebraska, having a natural oasis close to home is a true blessing. Glenn Cunningham Lake, often affectionately referred to as "The C," is precisely that – a sprawling park and campground offering a wealth of recreational opportunities right on the edge of our vibrant city. It's a place where you can swap the city sounds for birdsong, and urban pavements for scenic trails, all within an easy drive.

Glenn Cunningham Lake has undergone significant improvements in recent years, transforming it into an even more inviting destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature. From its sparkling lake views to its well-maintained trails and diverse activities, it provides a convenient and refreshing escape, making it a favorite for many Nebraskans seeking both relaxation and adventure without traveling far from home.

Glenn Cunningham Lake is conveniently located in north-central Omaha, Nebraska, with its primary address listed as Omaha, NE 68122, USA. More specifically, the campground can be found at 8305 Rainwood Rd, Omaha, NE 68122. This prime location means it's incredibly accessible for residents from Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding communities.

The park boasts multiple entrances, including those off State Highway 36, State Street, 96th Street, and Rainwood Road, ensuring easy access regardless of your approach. Its proximity to major thoroughfares like Interstate 680 makes it a straightforward drive from various neighborhoods and cities across Eastern Nebraska. While you feel immersed in a natural environment, you're just minutes away from essential city amenities, making it perfect for both short day trips and extended camping stays where you might still need to pop into town for supplies. The blend of rural tranquility and urban convenience is a key advantage for this beloved Omaha park.

Glenn Cunningham Lake Campground provides a range of modern and well-maintained services, catering primarily to RV and tent campers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

• Campsites: The campground is divided into two sections: West C Campground and East C Campground. The West C Campground offers 41 concrete RV sites with 20, 30, and 50-amp electrical hookups. The East C Campground features 42 concrete campground stalls, complete with water, 20, 30, and 50-amp electrical, and sanitary (sewer) hookups at each pad – a rare treat for state park-like facilities. There are also 7 regular tent camping sites.

• Modern Bathhouses: Both West C and East C campgrounds have bathhouse facilities with flush restrooms and hot showers, which are praised for their cleanliness. The West C has one facility with two restroom stalls and one shower per gender side, while the East C has one facility with two restroom stalls and two showers per gender side.

• Dump Station: A freshwater fill station and a dump station are conveniently located at the campground entrance for all RV sites, including those without individual sewer hookups.

• Fire Rings & Picnic Tables: All RV sites have access to a fire ring, perfect for campfires and s'mores. Picnic tables are provided in picnic areas throughout the park and often at individual sites.

• Camp Hosts: The park has dedicated camp hosts on site at both the West C (Site 8) and East C (Site 73) campgrounds, providing assistance and ensuring a safe, quiet environment.

• Mini Store/Concession Stand: A mini store on-site offers essentials like ice and firewood, adding to the convenience for campers.

It's important to note that tent camping was not available in 2024 due to expanded youth programs, but the park is actively working on future plans for primitive camping options. Long-term stays are not offered; the maximum length of stay is 14 days. Reservations are recommended and can be made via the park's website.

Glenn Cunningham Lake offers an impressive array of features and activities, making it a true hub for outdoor enthusiasts in Nebraska.

• Beautiful Lake and Views: The 390-acre lake itself is a centerpiece, providing beautiful views, especially at sunrise and sunset. The surrounding 1,050-acre parkland enhances the natural beauty.

• Extensive Paved Trails: A major highlight is the 6.2-mile concrete multipurpose trail that circles the entire lake. This paved trail is perfect for walking, running, biking, and is fully accessible (ADA-compliant with low-slope ramps).

• Boating and Water Recreation: As a no-wake lake (5mph speed limit), it's ideal for leisurely boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Public boat ramps are available, and kayak/paddleboard rentals are offered through Neighborhood Offshore.

• Fishing: The lake is well-stocked with catfish, white bass, bluegill, largemouth bass, and crappie. Numerous piers and areas around the park are available for fishing (Nebraska fishing license required for those 16+).

• Dog-Friendly: The park is welcoming to dogs, with paved trails and dedicated areas. Pets must be kept on a leash (maximum six feet) and picked up after immediately. They are not allowed in buildings, bathrooms, or playground areas, and excessive barking is not permitted.

• Disc Golf: The park features a renovated 18-hole disc golf course, adding another fun recreational option.

• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic areas with benches and tables are scattered throughout the park, ideal for day use and enjoying meals outdoors.

• Wildlife Viewing & Birding: With over 1,050 acres of parkland, including a 450-acre wildlife area north of Highway 36, the park offers excellent opportunities for nature study, birding, and observing local wildlife.

• ADA Accessibility: The park has made significant strides in accessibility, including smooth concrete paths and ADA-accessible kayak launches, ensuring that visitors of all abilities can enjoy the park.

The variety of activities and the emphasis on maintenance make Glenn Cunningham Lake a top-tier outdoor destination within Omaha.

As a city park, Glenn Cunningham Lake Campground primarily offers its services at competitive daily and weekly rates rather than traditional "promotions." However, there are aspects of its operation that provide value and convenience for Nebraskans.

• Affordable Rates: RV site rates are generally considered reasonable, with starting daily rates around $37.00 for West C (electric only) and $47.00 for East C (full hookup), with weekly rates also available. This makes it an accessible option for local staycations or weekend trips.

• Online Reservations: The park strongly encourages and facilitates online reservations through its website (explorethec.com or RoverPass). This allows campers to secure their preferred site in advance, especially crucial during peak season, ensuring a stress-free arrival.

• No Entrance Fee: As a city park, there is no general entrance fee to access Glenn Cunningham Lake and its trails for day use, only fees for overnight camping. This makes it an excellent free resource for daily outdoor enjoyment.

It is always recommended to check the official Lake Cunningham website (explorethec.com) for the most current pricing, availability, and any specific seasonal notices or events.

For more detailed information, to make reservations, or to inquire about specific park policies and amenities, you can reach out to the Lake Cunningham management.

Address: 8305 Rainwood Rd, Omaha, NE 68122, USA
Phone: (531) 201-5754
Email: explorethec@lakecunningham.org
Website: explorethec.com

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM. For emergencies, always call 911 or contact park security. The camp hosts are also available on-site for immediate assistance.

For us Nebraskans, Glenn Cunningham Lake is much more than just a campground; it’s a premier recreational hub that offers an incredible blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, all within the urban convenience of Omaha. Its recent renovations have significantly enhanced the visitor experience, providing clean, well-maintained facilities and a wide array of activities that cater to all ages and interests.

The availability of full hookup RV sites is a major draw, providing a comfortable and convenient option for those who prefer modern camping. Beyond the campsites, the extensive paved trails, abundant water activities on the no-wake lake (boating, kayaking, fishing), dog-friendly spaces, and accessible features make it a truly inclusive outdoor destination. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll by the lake, an energetic bike ride, a fun family picnic, or a full camping getaway, Glenn Cunningham Lake offers a high-quality experience without the need to travel far. It stands as a testament to Omaha's commitment to providing excellent green spaces for its residents, making it an ideal choice for any Nebraska local seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure close to home.