Best Campgrounds near Brainard, NE

Camping options near Brainard, Nebraska include both developed campgrounds and primitive sites spanning the surrounding region. Timber Point Wetland offers free primitive camping with three designated sites located on a small lake about 5 miles from town, while Czechland Lake Recreation Area provides electrical hookups at its 11 campsites 10 miles north. The area features several NRD (Natural Resources District) lakes that allow camping, including Red Cedar Lake and Wildwood Lake. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some locations like Camp A Way in Lincoln (about 30 miles southwest) also offering cabin rentals.

Seasonal conditions significantly impact camping experiences in eastern Nebraska. Most NRD-managed lakes remain open year-round, though facilities may be limited during winter months. "This free camping area is low on amenities, but is well kept and close to the Oak Creek Trail which extends from Valparaiso to Brainard Nebraska," noted one camper about Timber Point Wetland. Water access is a key consideration, as some sites like Wildwood Lake lack running water, while others provide hydrants near camping areas. Vault toilets are common at most locations, though their maintenance varies. Campers should note that several areas require state park permits for vehicle entry, and while some campgrounds are free, others charge $15-20 per night for electrical hookups.

The region's small lakes create opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and water recreation. Reviews highlight the natural setting, with one visitor mentioning, "The stars were spectacular! There's some black cows nearby that kind of stare at you with no emotion." Solitude varies significantly between locations, with some campgrounds like Wildwood Lake described as busy with local visitors, while others offer more seclusion. Fishing quality receives positive mentions at Czechland Lake and Branched Oak Lake, which features multiple camping areas. Site levelness presents challenges at some locations, particularly at Czechland Lake where one camper reported, "Site number 8...may be one of the more unlevel spots." Trails for hiking connect many of the camping areas, with the Oak Creek Trail providing a multi-use path between communities, and several lakes offering walking paths around their perimeters.

Best Camping Sites Near Brainard, Nebraska (91)

    1. Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area

    28 Reviews
    Malcolm, NE
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 783-3400

    $25 - $35 / night

    "My first time camping in Nebraska. Ive been to several throughout the US. Loved the spot, I was right next to the lake, great swimming access. Downside drinking water access was difficult."

    "The area is well known for being the equestrian camping area at one of the finest lakes in Nebraska. Pull through sites with full hookups, equestrian trails, and corals."

    2. Timber Point Wetland

    4 Reviews
    Brainard, NE
    3 miles
    Website

    "No people really, just a bunch of cows you pass as you drive down the gravelly/sandy roads to get to it. No mosquitoes, but bullfrogs aplenty throughout the night."

    "My favorite campgrounds are the ones that are a little out of the way on unpaved roads in the middle of nowhere :-) there was a pretty lake, a bathroom, a dumpster, and a map of the hikes."

    3. Czechland Lake Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Wahoo, NE
    14 miles
    Website

    $18 / night

    "This is another NRD lake, and pretty well maintained. However unlike Wanhoo you don't need a pass or permit. Also the tent camping is free, and electrical is 18."

    "May be difficult parking for larger rigs (35ft+) due to the one way entrance and curvature of the campground."

    4. Lakeview Campground — Pawnee State Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Malcolm, NE
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 796-2362

    $30 / night

    "Pawnee SRA is a well maintained family friendly SRA North West of Lincoln Nebraska. You’ll find powered and primative sites accommodating RV’s to tents."

    "The change machine was either broken or out of change but that seems to be the norm this year at Nebraska parks."

    5. Camp A Way Campground

    31 Reviews
    Lincoln, NE
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 476-2282

    $35 - $67 / night

    "A fun pass is require and costa about $10 but kids get ice cream, Slushies, water balloons for water wars included with that plus access to trampoline basketball, a nice jump pad, pool, indoor hot tub,"

    "Next to highway. You can hear highway but that doesn’t bother me"

    6. Red Cedar Lake

    2 Reviews
    Valparaiso, NE
    7 miles
    Website

    "Red Cedar Lake is a hidden gem if you’re looking for quiet, simple camping. The scenery is beautiful, with open skies and plenty of wildlife around."

    7. Wildwood Lake

    5 Reviews
    Valparaiso, NE
    13 miles
    Website

    8. Area One Campground

    6 Reviews
    Malcolm, NE
    17 miles

    "While Nebraska can't do much about the 90+ temps, they sure do make their campgrounds fun to be around when there's water involved."

    "Branched Oak-Area One Campground is 2 1/2 miles north of Malcom Nebraska. There are many different areas offering over 330 pads and tons of primitive camping."

    9. Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Wahoo, NE
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (402) 443-4675

    $8 - $40 / night

    "Lake Wanahoo is a fairly new lake in Saunders county Nebraska. The lake is part of the local NRD and was originally managed by the state parks department."

    "It’s been a few years since we stayed at Lake Wanahoo, but we decided to stay there over our anniversary weekend. The place is still great, and this time of year it was very quiet and peaceful."

    10. Valparaiso

    1 Review
    Valparaiso, NE
    11 miles
    Website
Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 91 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Brainard, NE

508 Reviews of 91 Brainard Campgrounds


  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Double Nickel Campground

    Amazing

    Very friendly & helpful lady, guided Us to Our site and spotted Us on it. That was after She gave Us a free upgrade, discount, and took several of Our calls. After having a really terrible day She gave a breath of encouragement back into Us. It looked like all the sites were pull through's, had fire pit (saw her delivering wood), never saw this before (each site has a porch swing). It is clean and taken care of nicely. It is most definitely a place to stay at.

  • Fire S.
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Red Cedar Lake

    Peaceful Getaway with Beautiful Views

    Red Cedar Lake is a hidden gem if you’re looking for quiet, simple camping. The scenery is beautiful, with open skies and plenty of wildlife around. It’s free camping, so amenities are limited—bring your own supplies and expect rustic conditions. The fishing was great, and the sunsets over the water were stunning. Perfect spot if you want to unplug, relax, and enjoy nature close to the road.https://kukasoittia.fi/

  • Kyla B.
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Czechland Lake Recreation Area

    Peaceful

    Has fishing, kayaking, hiking, 3 covered picnic areas with electricity, wildlife watching, no-wake boating, 11 (50 amp) RV/tent pads/sites at $20 per night, 3 free non-electrical RV/tent pads/sites, & free tent camping area by the dock. No park permit required. Can pay for pads/sites with cash or with mobile phone. Sites have trash cans, picnic tables and fire rings. Primitive bathrooms available. Water spigots available and working. No dumpsite. Dogs welcome but must be leashed.

    May be difficult parking for larger rigs (35ft+) due to the one way entrance and curvature of the campground. Also note that you will need to bring leveling blocks for nearly every site since the campground is build on a hill.

    https://lpnnrd.org/outdoor-recreation/czechland-lake-recreation-area/

  • Krystal T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    York Kampground

    Quick overnight stay

    This campground was perfect for what we needed. Which was a place to rest on a longer journey. The host was super helpful and friendly when we needed to switch spots and answer some questions. The bathhouse was clean and the neighbors were kind and respectful. Very close to fast food and gas stations! Would definitely stay again.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area Tent Campsites

    Great state rec area

    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 and a nice bicycle trail that leaves the park and winds out to Hormel Park on the Platte River.

  • Trav S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area

    Sewer Dump Available

    This is a very cool park in Papillion, Nebraska!

    It also has a sewer dump site for $5 (if you're not camping). See the camp host to pay.

  • Travis A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Yankee hill wildlife management area

    Good over night spot

    Situated in the middle of corn fields. The WMA has a large marshy, stagnant pond, so bring mosquito repellent. The parking area is clean. There is a dumpster and vault toilet. I didnt inspect it, I'll leave that up to you. No potable water, but Lincoln Nebraska is only 17 miles away.

  • wThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Smiths Creek Recreational Area

    Perfect

    It was not far off the highway but no road noise. Great place for a free overnight camp.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Smith Creek Recreation Area

    Quick overnight stay

    We had a quick one night stay as a van camper. Parked in the stone parking area adjacent to the toilets. A single bright light lit the entire parking lot. We arrived at 9:00 and quickly set up for sleeping. It was dark, our interior car lights immediately attracted numerous bugs. Late in the evening, a vehicle can't in and did a couple of "doughnuts" in the parking lot. It was a nice place overall for a single night.


Guide to Brainard

Camping near Brainard, Nebraska, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Fishing and boating: Many campgrounds, like Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area, provide great spots for fishing and boating. One visitor mentioned, "We spent Memorial weekend here... it was beautiful and very relaxing to hear the waves."
  • Hiking and exploring: Trails are available at places like Pawnee State Recreation Area, where you can enjoy nature walks. A camper noted, "There’s some mowed/natural trails to hike... it’s one of our favorites."
  • Swimming and playing: Campgrounds such as Double Nickel Campground have pools and playgrounds. One family shared, "There are all sorts of games: Basketball, volleyball, miniature golf... Nice pool."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Camp A Way Campground said, "Everyone that works here is so friendly. They have nice shower and bathrooms along with laundry facilities."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater to families with kids. One visitor at Two Rivers State Recreation Area mentioned, "Fun and quick trip if you’re in the Omaha area. My boys loved it."
  • Convenient locations: Campgrounds like Memphis Lake State Rec Area are easy to access from major highways. A camper noted, "This camp was a great stop off of I-80... much better than we expected to find for just a utility stop."

What you should know

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or train tracks. A camper at Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area warned, "There is a very busy set of train tracks that run about every 20 minutes all day and all night."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or extensive facilities. A reviewer at Smith Creek Recreation Area mentioned, "Seems to be used mostly for RVs but has space for tents."
  • Reservation policies: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor at Buckley Park Campground noted, "There are no reservations so be warned on that, but you can call ahead and get a feel for availability."

Tips for camping with families

  • Plan for activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming pools. One family at Double Nickel Campground enjoyed, "Many kid activities with even a Saturday movie night the park put on for the kids."
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand can make family camping easier. A camper at Camp A Way Campground appreciated the market, saying, "They have a nice market for snacks."
  • Bring outdoor games: Activities like frisbee or cornhole can keep kids entertained. A visitor at Two Rivers State Recreation Area mentioned, "The facilities are nice and the people in the little store were great."

Tips from RVers

  • Check for full hookups: Make sure the campground has the necessary hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Pawnee State Recreation Area noted, "The electrical sites are paved."
  • Be prepared for noise: If you're near highways or train tracks, consider bringing earplugs. A camper at Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area mentioned, "You get to hear the locals revving their over-sized trucks into the early hours."
  • Look for spacious sites: RVers appreciate campgrounds with ample space between sites. A visitor at Double Nickel Campground said, "The sites here are decently spaced especially for a private CG."

Camping near Brainard, Nebraska, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the campground details and reviews to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Brainard, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, Brainard, NE offers a wide range of camping options, with 91 campgrounds and RV parks near Brainard, NE and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Brainard, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Brainard, NE is Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area with a 4.1-star rating from 28 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Brainard, NE?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Brainard, NE.