Tent camping near Fremont, Nebraska centers around several state recreation areas with varied terrain and water access. The region experiences cold winters with temperatures occasionally dropping below 20°F, while summer camping sees high temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Train noise can be a significant factor at certain campgrounds, with tracks running near popular camping areas.
What to do
Biking opportunities: At Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area, cyclists can enjoy wooded trails connecting different parts of the park. "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," notes Anji L.
Lake activities: The multiple small lakes at Fremont Lakes offer water recreation options, though water conditions vary. "Make sure you ask when they dredged the lakes that you want to stay on," advises Molly M., highlighting the importance of checking lake conditions before planning activities.
River exploration: At Two Rivers State Recreation Area, campers can access the river for tubing and wading. "The river is decently safe and a good place to tube," explains Emily M. When water levels are low, visitors can explore temporary sandbars: "When the river is low, you can go play on the beach. We've even walked through the water to go play on the islands."
Hiking the Loess Hills: The unique geological formations at Preparation Canyon State Park offer distinctive hiking options 60 miles from Fremont. "Hike through the hilled prairie trail which is the first right as you enter from the Eastside Boundary, and you'll know why you came," says Christopher S. The park features nearly 8 miles of maintained trails.
What campers like
Multiple small lakes: Fremont Lakes SRA offers numerous water bodies for different activities. "There are at least a dozen small lakes part of the grounds. The new lakes are busy and full of RVs. If you want a less busy area, find the older section," recommends Alyssa E.
Clean facilities: Despite some limitations, the cleanliness of facilities receives praise. "Facilities were very clean. Cleanest I have ever seen in a campground," notes a Fremont Lakes camper, making it suitable for those concerned about bathroom conditions.
Riverside camping: Riverside Campground offers tent sites directly adjacent to water. "There are spots where you can tent camp right by the river," says Robin E., noting this proximity as a major advantage over other area campgrounds.
Secluded walk-in sites: For those seeking privacy, walk-in sites provide separation from developed areas. "I chose the closest walk-in spot, less than a mile in. It was great! Near a little creek if you need water, and really nicely secluded," reports Alison D. about her experience at Preparation Canyon.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Fremont Lakes campers should prepare for significant railway disruption. "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," warns Alyssa E. Highway noise compounds this issue.
Limited primitive options: Pelican Point State Recreation Area has minimal primitive camping. "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," explains John A., indicating the limited availability.
Shade considerations: Tent campers should note that many sites lack tree cover. "Not much shade on most tent sites," cautions Molly M. about Fremont Lakes, making summer camping potentially uncomfortable without proper shade equipment.
Price-to-amenity ratio: Some campsites charge fees disproportionate to their offerings. "For $15 you can do better in Nebraska," notes Charles C. regarding Area Three Campground, which provides only basic picnic tables and fire pits despite the cost.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: Preparation Canyon State Park offers accessible hiking for all skill levels. "Beginner to intermediate level trails that are good for the whole family," notes Tony M., making it suitable for family hiking expeditions without excessive difficulty.
Breakfast options: Two Rivers SRA features a family-run convenience store with affordable meals. "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 Robin E.
Badge opportunities: Scout groups can benefit from educational programs near Fremont. "The park has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom," explains a Two Rivers visitor, noting the educational value for organized youth groups.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For Area Three Campground, RV campers should know about site positioning relative to amenities. "On the east end there are sites right on the water," advises Charles C., though he notes these are primitive sites lacking hookups.
Early morning noise: Be prepared for maintenance disruptions at some campgrounds. "We were also by the dumpster, and they came by to empty it around 7am. Probably a Monday morning problem, but still worth mentioning," warns Chelsea K. about Area Three Campground.
Winter camping conditions: Cold weather camping requires preparation, with temperatures dropping significantly. "Late October tent camping- low around 19F... we seemed to be the only souls in the place," reports Chelsea K., highlighting both the solitude and extreme temperatures possible during shoulder season camping.
