Louisville State Recreation Area

Nebraska residents, are you seeking an engaging outdoor adventure that’s close to home and packed with lakeside fun? Look no further than Louisville State Recreation Area. Nestled near the Platte River, this popular destination offers a vibrant mix of water-based activities, diverse camping options, and family-friendly amenities, making it a beloved spot for a quick getaway or a longer vacation right here in eastern Nebraska.

Louisville State Recreation Area encompasses 192 acres, boasting five sandpit lakes that collectively offer approximately 50 surface acres of water. Surrounded by towering cottonwood trees, this inviting area has long been a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts in eastern Nebraska. It's a key part of the state's recreation system, offering a variety of camping experiences, from modern RV sites to more rustic tent camping. Recent investments in the park have brought significant upgrades, enhancing the overall visitor experience with improved electrical hookups and renovated facilities.

While Louisville SRA is celebrated for its beautiful lakes and water activities, it's worth noting some aspects that give it a unique character. Campers frequently mention the active railroad tracks running close to some sites, with trains passing by regularly, even at night. This can create noise and vibrations that some light sleepers might find challenging, though many adapt by using white noise or fans. Despite this, the allure of the lakes, the convenience of the location, and the range of activities keep visitors coming back. The park also features a concession stand, making it easy to grab essentials or a quick bite. Overall, Louisville State Recreation Area provides a dynamic and engaging outdoor experience that combines natural beauty with recreational opportunities.

Louisville State Recreation Area is conveniently located at 10 Main St, Louisville, NE 68037, USA. More specifically, it’s situated on the south bank of the Platte River in Cass County, near the northern edge of the community of Louisville on Nebraska Highway 50. This prime location makes it incredibly accessible for a large portion of Nebraska’s population, particularly those residing in and around the Omaha and Lincoln metropolitan areas.

For those traveling from Omaha, Louisville SRA is a relatively short drive, easily reached by taking Exit 440 from I-80, then heading south on Highway 50 to Louisville. From Lincoln, travelers can take Exit 426 from I-80, then go east on Highway 66 to Highway 50, and turn left (north) onto Highway 50. The park entrance is typically well-marked, leading you directly into the recreation area.

The accessibility extends within the park as well, with well-maintained roads leading to the various camping loops and recreational areas. While some campsites are noted for being quite close together, particularly certain online reservable sites, the general layout allows for easy navigation for RVs and trailers. Its proximity to the town of Louisville means quick access to local services, shops, and any forgotten essentials, blending a natural escape with convenient amenities. The area is also ideally located for campers who wish to take advantage of facilities at nearby Platte River State Park and Schramm Park State Recreation Area and Education Center.

Louisville State Recreation Area, as part of the Nebraska State Park system, offers a wide array of services and facilities to enhance the camping and recreational experience for its visitors.

• Camping Pads: Over 200 camping pads are available, offering a mix of Electric Plus (50-amp, 30-amp, and 20-amp hookups with water), Electric (20-, 30-, and 50-amp electrical hookups only), and Basic campsites (no hookups).
• Tent Camping: Dedicated primitive tent sites are available for those seeking a more traditional camping experience.
• Tentrr Ready-to-Go Campsites: A new, convenient option featuring fully equipped canvas safari tents with comfortable beds, Adirondack chairs, and fire pits.
• Modern Shower/Latrine Buildings: Clean and well-maintained shower and restroom facilities are strategically located throughout the campground. Note: Showers are coin-operated, typically costing $1 for 3 minutes.
• Dump and Fill Station: Available for RVs, though campers note there are only two stalls, which can lead to waits on busy weekends.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available at various spouts, though not always at each individual campsite.
• Swimming Beach: An unsupervised swimming beach on Lake No. 2, open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Change houses are available nearby.
• Floating Playground: A large inflatable water park on Lake No. 2, offering thrilling obstacles (additional fee applies, timed sessions).
• Concession Stand/Store: A convenient on-site store offering groceries, bait, fishing gear, camping supplies, ice cream, and snacks.
• Boat Launches: Access to five sandpit lakes for non-powered and electric-only boats.
• Canoe Access to Platte River: Provides opportunities for canoeing directly from the SRA to the Platte River, including a special canoe campsite on the river.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playground areas for children, including a "huge jumpkin' pumpkin" and well-maintained standard play structures.
• Picnic Areas & Shelters: Numerous picnic tables, grills, and five picnic shelters (one with electricity) are available for day use and gatherings.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Two miles of scenic trails winding through the park, popular for walking and biking, especially beautiful in the autumn.
• Rentals: Paddle board, water bike, and kayak rentals are available for enjoying the lakes.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Louisville State Recreation Area offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts and families in Nebraska.

• Five Sandpit Lakes: The core attraction, offering nearly 300 acres of water for diverse activities including excellent fishing (bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie, and seasonal trout stocking), swimming, and non-powered/electric boating.
• Floating Playground: A unique and exciting inflatable water park on Lake No. 2 provides a thrilling and challenging aquatic experience for all ages (additional fee applies).
• Proximity to Other State Parks: Its location near Platte River State Park, Mahoney State Park, and Schramm Park State Recreation Area and Education Center allows visitors to easily explore additional attractions and amenities.
• Variety of Camping Options: From full hookup sites to basic tent sites and the new Tentrr glamping experience, there's an accommodation type to suit almost any preference.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With multiple playgrounds (including a large "jumpkin' pumpkin"), a swimming beach, and rental options for water sports, the park is well-equipped for family fun.
• Scenic Trails: Two miles of hiking and biking trails provide opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, particularly stunning during the fall foliage season.
• On-Site Concession Stand: The convenience of a store and eatery right in the park means easy access to snacks, meals, and essential supplies without leaving the recreation area.

As a Nebraska State Recreation Area, Louisville SRA operates under the fee structure set by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. While it may not have individual "promotions" in the commercial sense, there are established benefits and ways to manage costs for local residents:

• Nebraska State Park Entry Permit: A valid Nebraska State Park Entry Permit is required for all vehicles entering the park. Locals can purchase an annual permit ($35 for a Nebraska Licensed Vehicle; $17.50 for a duplicate annual permit), which offers significant savings for frequent visits throughout the year compared to the daily permit ($7 per day).
• Camping Fees: Camping fees are based on site type (Electric Plus, Electric, Basic) and are competitive for state park facilities. These fees range from approximately $10 to $25 per night.
• Water Playground Fee: The floating playground is an additional fee, typically around $15-$18 for a 90-minute session. This is an "add-on" experience rather than a discount.
• Early Reservations: Half of the electrical campsites are reservable up to one year in advance, which is a great "offer" in terms of securing popular sites, especially during peak season and weekends when the park can get very crowded. The remaining sites are first-come, first-served.
• Winter Rates: During the off-season when modern facilities like showers might be closed, a lower winter camping rate may be charged for sites with electricity.

For the most accurate and current information on entry permit costs, camping fees, reservation policies, and any specific events or limited-time offerings, it is always recommended to check the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website (OutdoorNebraska.gov) or contact Louisville State Recreation Area directly.

To plan your visit to Louisville State Recreation Area, or for any inquiries regarding camping, activities, or reservations, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 10 Main St, Louisville, NE 68037, USA (Note: Official sources also list 15810 Hwy 50, Louisville, NE 68037-2880 as the primary address for the park office.)

Phone: (402) 234-6855 (This is the primary contact number for the park office.)

Mobile Phone: +1 402-234-6855 (This number serves as an additional direct line for inquiries.)

For online reservations and more detailed park information, visiting the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website at OutdoorNebraska.gov/location/louisville/ is highly recommended. It is advisable to call ahead, especially for specific site availability or if you have questions about current conditions, as the park can be very popular.

For Nebraska residents, Louisville State Recreation Area stands out as an incredibly suitable and popular choice for a local outdoor escape. Its prime location, just a short drive from both Omaha and Lincoln, makes it incredibly convenient for quick weekend trips or day visits, minimizing travel time and maximizing recreational enjoyment. The affordability of a state park entry permit, especially an annual one, adds significant value for locals who wish to visit frequently throughout the year.

The park's diverse offerings are perfectly tailored for a local audience. The five sandpit lakes provide ample opportunities for beloved Nebraska pastimes like fishing, swimming at the beach, and various forms of boating. The unique floating playground is a major draw for families with children, offering an exciting and engaging experience that sets this park apart. While the proximity to the railroad tracks means some train noise, many locals find that the extensive list of activities and the sheer convenience outweigh this factor. For a blend of water fun, camping comfort, and easy access to a full spectrum of outdoor activities, Louisville State Recreation Area remains a cherished gem for Nebraskans seeking adventure close to home.