Fremont, Nebraska camping areas sit between the Platte and Elkhorn Rivers in eastern Nebraska, with elevations around 1,200 feet. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with peak season running May through September when water activities are most popular.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Two Rivers State Recreation Area, campers have multiple options for catching fish. "The fishing is easy in all the lakes and they have a pay fishing trout lake that nearly guarantees success," notes Rick J. The area features seven lakes plus the Platte River access.
Biking trails: The flat terrain around Fremont creates excellent biking conditions for families. At Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area, "There's a nice bicycle trail that leaves the park and winds out to Hormel Park on the Platte River," according to Anji L. The paved roads throughout the recreation area are also popular for casual cycling.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas. "Our kid and her friends love the swimming beach," shares a Two Rivers visitor. Lake Wanahoo provides kayaking opportunities with minimal motorboat traffic, while Elkhorn Crossing offers river access for airboats and other water craft.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area offers prime lakeside camping spots. "We were able to stay here for 2 nights while visiting the city... This campground not only has a fun name to repeat to family and friends but has a ton of campsites right on the lake," reports James D., who managed to catch a 32-inch northern pike during his stay.
Clean facilities: Pathfinder Campground maintains well-kept amenities. Karen W. notes it's a "Nice, clean campground. One of the state parks, so kind of crowded, but still pretty quiet." Most established campgrounds in the area offer modern bathroom facilities with many providing hot showers.
Convenience to town: When staying at Christiansen Field, campers appreciate the proximity to Fremont's services. Tom C. describes it as "a good place for an overnight or even a few nights stay" at approximately $25 per night with water and electric hookups. The location serves as a practical base for exploring the region.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near several campgrounds in the area. At Victory Lake Campground, campers should prepare for occasional train noise. "When we got here on Saturday we were lucky enough to get the last spot. I would definitely call ahead to reserve a spot if going for the weekend," advises Shannon G., who also notes the campground gets busy due to its college town location.
Limited shade: Many newer recreation areas lack mature trees. At Lake Wanahoo, "the lake is part of the local NRD and was originally managed by the state parks department. You used to be able to use your state park permit to gain entry, but now you need to either buy a day pass or a yearly pass from the NRD," explains Pat V., who adds that "unfortunately when the lake and campground were built they planted saplings, so during the hot months there is no shade to be found."
Permit requirements: Most established campgrounds require entrance permits in addition to camping fees. Rates vary between Nebraska residents and out-of-state visitors. Reservation systems operate for many popular sites, especially during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Two Rivers offers kid-friendly amenities throughout the park. "It's flat and easy for young kids to bike around all the different lakes (ponds). Plus the Platte river is right there too that adds a great ambient sound," shares Justin R. The campground also features unique accommodations in converted train cabooses that children particularly enjoy.
Swimming beaches: Designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation for children. "We primary visit Lake Wanahoo for fishing as the lake is regularly stocked. It's great for kayaking or small boats," notes Carly P., adding that visitors should "bring the sunscreen" due to limited shade.
Day trip options: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers extensive family activities within driving distance. "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids including paddleboating, a wave pool, horse riding, ziplining, and playgrounds," reports Jennifer M. The park's pool received high marks despite additional fees.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most established campgrounds offer electric hookups with some providing full service connections. "We had full hookups & the site we were in was spacious with a picnic table and fire ring with grate," reports Glenda D. about her stay at the West Omaha KOA Holiday.
Site spacing: RV sites vary significantly in size throughout the region. "We were given an inappropriate size space for the rig we stated, super narrow and we stuck over the road by 2 feet," shares Stacy M. about a previous West Omaha KOA stay, suggesting campers should "insist that we are in a larger site as it was actually a nice campground."
Seasonal considerations: Summer humidity can make climate control important for RV campers. Sanitary dump stations are available at most established campgrounds, though locations sometimes require driving to a separate area within the park.
