Tent camping options around Denton, Nebraska range from primitive sites to more developed campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Campers can access multiple lakes and river settings throughout Johnson, Saunders, and Lancaster counties. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer highs averaging 86°F and winter lows dropping below 20°F, influencing campsite selection based on season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bruning Dam Recreation Area offers basic tent sites perfect for fishing enthusiasts. "Only two small sites and one appears to have sewage. There's a bathroom available. Best suited for an outdoorsman that's hunting or fishing," notes Dana T. from a 2024 visit to this small recreation area.
River exploration: Riverside Campground at Two Rivers SRA provides direct water access for various activities. According to Emily M., "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. Definitely for relaxing on the river but not much else."
Local attractions: Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground provides convenient access to downtown Wahoo for campers seeking proximity to town amenities. "Located near downtown Wahoo. $20 per night for full hookup. Appear to be approximately 40 sites," explains Lucian F., highlighting its accessibility to local services.
What campers like
Secluded settings: Wirth Brothers Lake draws campers seeking quieter experiences away from crowds. A camper named Shannon G. explains it's "located west off Highway 50 on 733 road on gravel. It is a primitive camping area - no hook ups. It has a few fire rings, and raised grills. There are picnic table and a covered group picnic shelter."
Quick nature access: Two Rivers SRA appeals to campers wanting convenient outdoor experiences without extensive travel. Michael M. shared after a 2024 visit: "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."
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds near Denton feature playground equipment for families. Wirth Brothers Lake offers "drinking water, bathrooms, playground, archery, and a swimming beach," making it suitable for families seeking basic amenities with recreational options, according to Shannon G.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many tent sites around Denton offer minimal amenities. Kwin K. notes about Riverside Campground: "It's nice this site is near the river but it's just your basic campground. you'll find a pretty flat area with access to the river and basic amenities. I've only been to tent sites. I would suggest brining your own wood because when we were there, they were out."
Permit requirements: Some recreation areas require day-use or annual permits. Wirth Brothers Lake requires "$5 a day or $15 for annual permit" according to Shannon G., which should be factored into camping budgets.
Outbuilding maintenance: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between sites. At Wirth Brothers Lake, Becky D. mentioned "the grounds were well maintained. It is off the beaten path and has camping spots that offer some seclusion from other people. The campground was designed by boys outs only downfall is the outhouses could be kept up better."
Map verification: Some campground listings may have outdated information. One visitor to Feits Memorial Park reported: "Tried to find this park using the 'Get Directions'. The place it took us there is no park of any kind. It was a residential neighborhood." Call ahead to confirm locations before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to playgrounds: Select campsites near recreational facilities for convenient entertainment. Michael M. appreciated at Riverside Campground that his site was "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."
Educational opportunities: Two Rivers SRA offers nature learning experiences. Robin E. notes the park "has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds feature opportunities to observe local wildlife. Robin E. mentions that Two Rivers SRA "has deer and turkey and many birds. There is also fishing. It's far enough outside of Omaha to feel like a getaway and get back to nature."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited but available at select locations. At Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground, Lucian F. found "$20 per night for full hookup" with approximately 40 sites available, making it one of the better-equipped options for RVs in the region.
Campground cleanliness: Facility maintenance varies between locations. Jeff L. appreciated Riverside Campground for being "a very nice and clean campground" with "friendly staff," factors that significantly improve the RV camping experience.
Weekend planning: Many campgrounds experience higher weekend occupancy. Emily M. noted at Riverside Campground, "There were not any other campers but I could see it getting pretty busy on the weekends," suggesting weekday visits might offer more solitude for tent camping near Denton, Nebraska.
