Guest Info, FAQs & Packing List | River Lodge Outfitters

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you arrive.

We primarily hunt out of A-frame and pit blinds, which offer excellent concealment and versatility. We provide heat in all of our blinds so you can stay comfortable regardless of the weather.

A diverse range — the Platte River, the Loup rivers, the Calamus River, warm-water sloughs, dry fields, and flooded corn fields.

Yes. We recommend a 12-gauge chambered in 3-inch, though some clients prefer 20- or 28-gauge. All firearms must meet state and federal regulations and will be inspected by our staff before the hunt. Every package also includes complimentary use of our Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 shotguns.

We host private groups only — one group in the lodge at a time, with a minimum of four. We typically hunt in groups of eight, though our guides may split into smaller groups of four when it enhances the experience.

Yes — non-hunting guests are welcome for private groups of four and six for an additional $900 per non-hunter. We recommend a rental vehicle for sightseeing around the Kearney area during hunting hours.

Comfortable two-story suites, each with two queen beds on the lower level and a queen in the loft, plus a private restroom and walk-in shower. Groups of 4 enjoy all single rooms; groups of 6 have two single and two double rooms; groups of 8 have four double rooms. Meals are included with all lodging packages.

Yes — all lodging packages include meals prepared by our in-house culinary team. We accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.

Generally, no. We strive to keep clients out of deep water — 99% of the time you won't step above knee level. We recommend 18-inch Muck boots; we do not provide boots or waders.

Possibly. You must have hunted with us for at least one prior season, have a private group whose members all approve, and comply with our guides' decisions in the field, where conditions can be hazardous.

No — harvested birds are the responsibility of the client and must be removed by the final day of your stay. Yeti coolers are available in our Pro Shop, and we highly recommend them for transport.

Gratuity is never required but greatly appreciated. We accept cash, PayPal, and Venmo, collected at checkout so they can be distributed fairly to the whole team. Industry-standard gratuity ranges from 15–20% of your hunt package.

Yes. Nebraska winters can be unpredictable and flights may be canceled. Since all payments are non-refundable, we highly recommend travel or hunt insurance and can suggest reputable providers.

Check-in is 5:00–6:30 PM on the first night of arrival; check-out is 1:00 PM on the final day of your stay.

Getting Here

Airports & travel.

We offer round-trip shuttle service from Kearney Regional Airport (EAR). For private flights, Kearney offers superior hangars and inclement-weather equipment; we also provide pickups from Lexington Municipal for pilots departing immediately.

Kearney Regional (EAR)

~30 min · round-trip shuttle provided · best for private flights

North Platte (LBF)

~1 hour drive

Central Nebraska Regional (GRI)

~1 hr 15 min drive

Eppley Airfield (OMA)

~3 hours drive

Denver International (DEN)

~4 hr 30 min drive

Packing List

What to bring.

We provide Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 shotguns, unlimited MIGRA ammunition, and Orvis upland vests at no additional cost. Pack for cold mornings and comfortable evenings:

Waterproof boots (18-inch Muck recommended)
Warm, layered winter clothing
Waterproof outer layers
Sunglasses (eye protection)
Electronic hearing protection (optional)
Blaze orange for upland hunts
Burr-resistant pants for upland
A Yeti cooler to transport your game
Workout & leisure clothing for the lodge
A swimsuit for the hot tubs

Everything you need to know.

Before you arrive.

Airports & travel.

What to bring.

Still have questions?

Your guide to the River Lodge.