Tent camping near Bennington, Nebraska provides access to several recreation areas along nearby waterways including the Missouri River and Platte River. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from April through October with peak visitation during summer months. Winter camping options are limited due to freezing temperatures that typically range from 15°F to 30°F during December through February.
What to do
Water recreation access: Two Rivers State Recreation Area allows campers to enjoy the Platte River with opportunities for tubing directly from campsites. "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," notes Emily M. about Riverside Campground.
Hiking trails: Preparation Canyon State Park offers nearly 8 miles of trails across its 340 acres. A reviewer explains, "Easy access to even more miles of trails in the remainder of the Loess Hills State Forest adjacent to the park." These trails range from beginner to intermediate difficulty and connect to additional wilderness areas.
Wildlife observation: Morning and evening hours provide optimal wildlife viewing at Two Rivers. According to Robin E., "The park has deer and turkey and many birds. There is also fishing." Visitors commonly spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and migratory birds throughout the seasons.
What campers like
River proximity: Tent sites at Riverside Campground allow camping directly beside the water. Michael M. shares his experience: "A short drive from Omaha, two rivers offers generally clean TV and tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds. I camped right by the river. Also a short walk to the outhouse and playground."
Star gazing opportunities: Loess Hills region offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. Christopher S. describes Site 3 at Preparation Canyon as "a small trek up a hillside and looks out across the general area, with a phenomenal star gazing opportunity."
Multiple lakes access: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area features a dozen small lakes within walking distance of tent sites. Anji L. notes it's an "Impressive recreation area. Campsites on and off of the water, all very nice. Lots of walking and bike riding. Very woodsy feeling through the whole park."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds in the area experience railway disruption. 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 amenities at primitive sites: Area Three Campground provides minimal facilities despite the cost. Charles C. observes: "For $15 you can do better in Nebraska" since sites only include "the regular old picnic table, burn pit and rather dirty vault toilet."
Water treatment requirements: Backcountry campsites often require visitors to collect and purify water from nearby creeks. Christopher S. notes about Preparation Canyon: "The creek just to the North was still flowing and provided our water source."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options for children: Two Rivers offers family-friendly sites with playgrounds. Michael M. reports: "Fun and quick trip if you're in the Omaha area. My boys (4&7) loved it."
Educational opportunities: Pelican Point State Rec Area provides access to Missouri River habitats for nature exploration, though facilities are minimal. According to John A., "This campground is conveniently located at a boat ramp. It has 2 primitive campsites and a vault toilet."
Scout-friendly locations: Two Rivers accommodates youth group camping with educational resources. 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."
Tips from RVers
Winter camping considerations: Late fall and winter camping requires preparation for subfreezing temperatures. Chelsea K. describes her experience: "Late October tent camping- low around 19F... we seemed to be the only souls in the place" at Area Three Campground.
Off-season advantages: Shoulder season camping typically offers greater solitude. Alison D. found Preparation Canyon ideal during a cross-country trip: "I stayed here on a long road trip across the country. Had no idea such a scenic place could be found in Iowa!"
