Tent campsites near Bellevue, Nebraska provide options for outdoor recreation within a 60-mile radius. The area features several small lakes and river access points, with camping available from early spring through late fall. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 1,000-1,200 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-90°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Wirth Brothers Lake, campers can fish in a well-maintained small lake. "The campground was designed by boy scouts and offers some seclusion from other people," notes reviewer Becky D.
River activities: Riverside camping at Two Rivers SRA provides water recreation options. "The river is decently safe and a good place to tube," reports Emily M., who stayed at the tent sites. Michael M. adds: "A short drive from Omaha, two rivers offers generally clean TV and tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds."
Biking trails: The recreation area at Fremont Lakes connects to extended trail systems. "Very woodsy feeling through the whole park and a nice bicycle trail that leaves the park and winds out to Hormel Park on the Platte River," explains Anji L., highlighting recreation options beyond the lakes.
What campers like
Proximity to Omaha: Two Rivers SRA provides convenient tent camping for quick getaways. "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," writes Robin E.
Multiple lake access: Fremont Lakes features numerous small lakes for different water activities. "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," suggests Alyssa E.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards at certain campgrounds exceed expectations. "Facilities were very clean. Cleanest I have ever seen in a campground," notes Alyssa E. about Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area. Jeff L. similarly mentions "Friendly staff and a very nice and clean campground" at Riverside Campground.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience significant noise disruption. At Fremont Lakes, reviewer Alyssa E. cautions: "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 primitive options: Pelican Point State Recreation Area offers minimal facilities. "This campground is conveniently located at a boat ramp. It has 2 primitive campsites and a vault toilet. The campsites had signs that said $15," reports John A.
Shade considerations: Many tent sites lack natural protection from sun. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly areas: Two Rivers SRA provides play areas near campsites. "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," shares Michael M.
Nature education: Two Rivers offers educational programming for younger campers. "The park has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom," explains Robin E., who used the park for Cub Scout campouts.
Wildlife viewing: Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground provides affordable camping with nearby wildlife. "Located near downtown Wahoo. $20 per night for full hookup. Appear to be approximately 40 sites," notes Lucian F.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Riverside Campground at Two Rivers SRA offers electric hookups for those needing power. "We use this campground the most often for our weekend getaways. Our favorite campground is Riverside for tent camping," reports Robin E.
Site selection strategy: Separate camping areas serve different needs at Fremont Lakes. "The new lakes are busy and full of RVs. If you want a less busy area, find the older section," advises Alyssa E., noting the distinction between camping sections.
Budget option: For camping with complete amenities, some fairgrounds provide unexpectedly good value. Saunders County Fairgrounds offers full-service sites at lower rates than state recreation areas, making it suitable for both tent and RV campers visiting the Bellevue region.
