Tent camping near Glenwood, Iowa provides access to outdoor recreation within approximately 30-60 minutes of driving time. The Missouri River forms the western border of the region, creating camping opportunities with river access in neighboring Nebraska. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-90°F, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area features a dozen small lakes offering varied fishing experiences. According to Alyssa E., "There are at least a dozen small lakes part of the grounds. The new lakes are busy and full of RVs. If you want a less busy area, find the older section."
River recreation: Two Rivers State Recreation Area provides river access with seasonal activities. Emily M. notes, "The river is decently safe and a good place to tube. There were not any other campers but I could see it getting pretty busy on the weekends."
Bike trail access: The area offers dedicated biking paths connecting natural areas. Anji L. mentions Fremont Lakes has "a nice bicycle trail that leaves the park and winds out to Hormel Park on the Platte River."
Primitive archery practice: Wirth Brothers Lake includes archery facilities for practice sessions. Shannon G. confirms the area has "a few fire rings, and raised grills. There are picnic tables and a covered group picnic shelter. There is drinking water, bathrooms, playground, archery, and a swimming beach."
What campers like
Accessible weekend getaways: Two Rivers SRA offers proximity to urban areas while providing natural experiences. Robin E. shares, "It's far enough outside of Omaha to feel like a getaway and get back to nature. And close enough to Omaha to not feel like much work to go camping!"
Family-friendly facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained common areas receive positive mentions. Jeff L. notes Riverside Campground has "Friendly staff and a very nice and clean campground."
Water access sites: Campsites positioned near water provide recreational opportunities. Robin E. explains, "Our favorite campground is Riverside for tent camping. There are spots where you can tent camp right by the river...When the river is low, you can go play on the beach."
Wildlife viewing: Local campgrounds support wildlife observation opportunities. Robin E. reports, "The park has deer and turkey and many birds. There is also fishing."
What you should know
Train noise disruptions: Some campgrounds experience significant train noise throughout night hours. At Fremont Lakes, Alyssa E. warns, "There is a very busy set of train tracks that run about every 20 minutes all day and all night. Didn't get any sleep, even with earplugs."
Limited shade at tent sites: Many tent areas lack adequate tree cover for summer heat. At Fremont Lakes, Molly M. advises, "The lake was awesome, not much shade on most tent sites. Make sure you ask when they dredged the lakes that you want to stay on."
Flood recovery status: Several riverside campgrounds experience periodic flooding affecting facilities. Regarding Brownville Riverside Park, John A. reported in July 2024, "The river has flooded it out as of June 28, 2024 and it will likely be unusable for at least the remainder of this season."
Weekend crowds: Popular water-access sites become congested during peak times. Robin E. notes about Riverside Campground, "It does get loud during weekends but that's because everyone is having so much fun!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Michael M. shares about Riverside Campground, "A short drive from Omaha, Two Rivers offers generally clean RV and tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds. I camped right by the river. Also a short walk to the outhouse and playground. Fun and quick trip if you're in the Omaha area. My boys (4&7) loved it."
Nature education options: Scout-friendly activities available at select locations. Robin E. explains, "We have also used other campgrounds at Two River SRA for Cub Scout campouts. The park has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom."
Breakfast convenience: On-site or nearby breakfast options simplify family camping logistics. Robin E. mentions, "There is a convenience store ran by a very nice family and they make a great breakfast for a low cost. We like to get up early and walk across the park to breakfast and then walk back to our campsite."
Swimming areas: Designated swimming beaches provide safer water recreation. Shannon G. notes Wirth Brothers Lake includes "drinking water, bathrooms, playground, archery, and a swimming beach."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Some county fairgrounds offer economical full-service sites. Lucian F. states about Saunders County Fairgrounds, "Located near downtown Wahoo. $20 per night for full hookup. Appear to be approximately 40 sites."
Less crowded alternatives: Avoiding the busiest sections improves camping experience. Alyssa E. advises, "I tent camped in the old lakes part of the campgrounds. The new lakes are busy and full of RVs. If you want a less busy area, find the older section."
Highway noise considerations: Road proximity affects sleep quality at several sites. Alyssa E. notes about Fremont Lakes, "It's right next to a busy highway so you get to hear the locals revving their over-sized trucks into the early hours."
