Tent campsites near Fort Calhoun, Nebraska offer primitive to moderate accommodations with minimal shade in most locations. The region sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August. Winter camping options are limited as most campgrounds reduce services or close completely from November through March.
What to do
Fishing access: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area offers multiple small lakes for anglers within 30 miles of Fort Calhoun. According to visitors, "Tons of water, a few trails, lots of sites to camp" with "at least a dozen small lakes part of the grounds."
Hiking in unique terrain: The Loess Hills region contains rare wind-deposited soil formations found in only a few places worldwide. At Preparation Canyon State Park, "the flora, fauna, and geology of this park are amazing and unique to North America. If you have not visited this area, put it high on your to-do list."
Sunrise viewing: Early risers can experience memorable sunrises at tent sites near water. A camper at Preparation Canyon noted that "there's a trail up a hill right near by that had great views of the area and a lovely sunset!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Several tent camping areas provide good separation between campers. At Loess Hills Hideaway, "Owner is very nice and the bathrooms if you need them are clean and well maintained."
Creek access: Walk-in sites at Preparation Canyon offer natural water sources. One camper reported their site was "Near a little creek if you need water, and really nicely secluded. Picnic table and fire ring included."
Clean facilities: Despite primitive settings, many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. A visitor to Riverside Campground observed "Friendly staff and a very nice and clean campground."
What you should know
Train noise disruption: Several campgrounds near Fort Calhoun experience significant railway noise. At Fremont Lakes, campers report "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 availability: Primitive tent sites can fill quickly during peak season (May-September). Self-registration is required at most walk-in sites, and spots cannot be reserved in advance at some locations.
Firewood limitations: Many tent campgrounds prohibit bringing outside firewood due to invasive species concerns. A Riverside Campground visitor advised: "I would suggest brining your own wood because when we were there, they were out."
Seasonal bathroom closures: Pelican Point State Recreation Area and similar locations close bathroom facilities during winter months. Even in summer, facilities can be basic: "This campground is conveniently located at a boat ramp. It has 2 primitive campsites and a vault toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When camping with young children, sites near playground equipment reduce boredom during downtime. A Riverside visitor shared: "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers numerous wildlife viewing opportunities for children. At Riverside Campground, "The park has deer and turkey and many birds. There is also fishing."
Educational activities: Several parks provide nature programs specifically for children during summer months. "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
Designated tent sections: RV campers note that separating from tent areas improves experience for all. At Hildreth Lighthouse Campground, tent sites offer "Flat piece of grass to place two tents for only $20 bucks" separate from RV areas.
Access road conditions: Several campgrounds have unpaved access roads that may be challenging after rain. One camper noted, "two miles of dirt road was less than fun" when accessing tent sites.
Dump station availability: Most tent-focused campgrounds lack sanitary dump facilities. For RVers also considering tent camping, Saunders County Fairgrounds offers "$20 per night for full hookup" with approximately 40 sites near downtown Wahoo.
