Tent camping near Boys Town, Nebraska centers around small state recreation areas and river access points within 30-60 miles of town. The region offers relatively flat terrain typical of eastern Nebraska with camping options ranging from primitive sites along the Platte and Missouri rivers to more developed areas with basic facilities. Temperatures range from 20°F in winter months to 90°F+ in summer, with spring and fall providing milder conditions for tent campers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Two Rivers SRA features spots where tent campers can fish directly near their sites. "The park has deer and turkey and many birds. There is also fishing," notes a regular visitor who camps at Riverside Campground.
Water activities: When water levels cooperate, campers can enjoy beach areas along riverfront campsites during summer months. According to one reviewer at Two Rivers, "We've even walked through the water to go play on the islands."
Hiking trails: Preparation Canyon State Park offers nearly 8 miles of trails through the unique Loess Hills landscape. "If you're looking for a relaxing backcountry retreat for a little backpacking adventure then this is a great weekend option. Beginner to intermediate level trails that are good for the whole family," explains a park visitor.
Biking: Fremont Lakes recreation area provides cycling options throughout the park and beyond. A recent camper describes, "Lots of walking and bike riding. 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."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Area Three Campground offers tent sites with varying levels of seclusion. "Late October tent camping- low around 19F... we seemed to be the only souls in the place. Our site was a few hundred yards from the lake, and we had a great morning walk," reports one off-season visitor.
Clean facilities: Many tent campers note facility quality varies significantly between locations. One camper at Fremont Lakes observed, "Facilities were very clean. Cleanest I have ever seen in a campground."
Unique landscapes: The Loess Hills region provides distinctive terrain not commonly associated with Nebraska or Iowa. A visitor to Loess Hills Hideaway shares, "Owner is very nice and the bathrooms if you need them are clean and well maintained."
Proximity to water: Many tent sites offer direct river or lake access. "I have only ever used tent sites by the river. For the tent sites I wish there were more amenities but the one we stayed at was in a nice location. The river is decently safe and a good place to tube," notes a Two Rivers camper.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train tracks near certain campgrounds can create disruption. A camper at Fremont Lakes 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: Pelican Point State Rec Area offers extremely basic accommodations. "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."
Shade availability: Tree cover varies significantly between locations. "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," advises a Fremont Lakes visitor.
Weather considerations: Temperature swings can be significant, with summer daytime highs regularly exceeding 90°F while spring/fall camping can involve freezing nights.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Two Rivers SRA includes family-friendly facilities near tent camping areas. "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. Fun and quick trip if you're in the Omaha area. My boys (4&7) loved it," shares a recent visitor.
Educational opportunities: Two Rivers SRA offers unique nature learning areas. "The park has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom," notes a visitor who uses the park for Cub Scout campouts.
Budget meals: Some recreation areas have affordable food options nearby. "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," shares a Two Rivers regular.
Timing considerations: Weekends, especially during summer months, bring higher visitor counts to most tent camping areas near Boys Town, potentially limiting site availability without reservations.
Tips from RVers
Cost expectations: Tent campers should expect to pay entrance fees plus camping fees at most locations. "For $15 you can do better in Nebraska," notes a visitor to Area Three Campground who found the primitive amenities didn't match the price point.
Accessibility issues: Some campsites have challenging access roads. "The path to the campsites was in rough shape, but the grass on the campsites appeared recently mowed," reports a visitor to Pelican Point.
Maintenance timing: Early morning maintenance can disrupt sleep. "We were also by the dumpster, and they came by to empty it around 7am. Probably a Monday morning problem, but still worth mentioning," shares an Area Three Campground visitor.
