Tent camping near Omaha, Nebraska offers several options within a short drive from the city. The region features a mix of state recreation areas along river corridors and lakes, with most campsites situated on flat terrain at elevations between 1,000-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-90°F during camping season, with higher humidity levels from June through August that campers should prepare for.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Two Rivers State Recreation Area provides access to both the Platte and Elkhorn rivers for anglers. "The river is decently safe and a good place to tube," notes camper Emily M., who recommends this location primarily "for relaxing on the river but not much else."
Hiking trails: Visitors to Preparation Canyon State Park can access nearly 8 miles of trails within its 340 acres. One reviewer explains, "The hilled prairie trail which is the first right as you enter from the Eastside Boundary" showcases why this park is special, while another camper adds it has "beginner to intermediate level trails that are good for the whole family."
Water recreation: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area features multiple small lakes for swimming and boating. "The lake was awesome," reports camper Molly M., while another visitor notes there are "at least a dozen small lakes part of the grounds" offering "tons of water" access points throughout the recreation area.
What campers like
Secluded sites: The backcountry sites at Preparation Canyon offer significant privacy compared to other locations near Omaha. "There are about 8 sites dispersed around the area so camping is always private," writes camper Tarrah C., who appreciates the envelope payment system at the parking lot before hiking in.
Clean facilities: Loess Hills Hideaway maintains their restroom facilities well. According to Tyler S., "the bathrooms if you need them are clean and well maintained," which can be important for tent campers seeking basic amenities during their stay.
Proximity to Omaha: Two Rivers allows for quick weekend getaways without extensive travel time. Michael M. notes it's "a short drive from Omaha" with "generally clean TV and tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds," making it convenient for city dwellers needing a nature break.
What you should know
Train noise: Fremont Lakes campers should be prepared for significant railroad disruptions. As one camper explains, "there is a very busy set of train tracks" with trains passing "about every 20 minutes all day and all night," making earplugs insufficient for sound-sensitive campers.
Limited amenities: Pelican Point State Recreation Area offers minimal facilities for tent campers. "There are 2 primitive campsites and a vault toilet," reports John A., who observed the "path to the campsites was in rough shape, but the grass on the campsites appeared recently mowed."
Seasonal considerations: Late fall camping requires preparation for cold temperatures. At Area Three Campground, one October camper reported "low around 19F" temperatures, noting "we seemed to be the only souls in the place," indicating off-season camping provides solitude but requires cold-weather gear.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Two Rivers offers recreation facilities specifically for children. "A short walk to the outhouse and playground," writes Michael M., whose "boys (4&7) loved it," making this location suitable for families with young children.
Educational opportunities: Area Three Campground provides access to nature exploration with proximity to the lake. One camper mentions their "site was a few hundred yards from the lake, and we had a great morning walk," creating opportunities for wildlife observation with children.
Safety considerations: Preparation Canyon offers backpacking experiences manageable for families. One reviewer describes the trails as "good for the whole family" with water options available throughout the park, though parents should note the primitive conditions require proper preparation for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Cost considerations: Area Three Campground's pricing may be high relative to amenities. One RVer noted, "For $15 you can do better in Nebraska" given the primitive nature of the sites that include only "the regular old picnic table, burn pit and rather dirty vault toilet."
Site selection: Fremont Lakes offers distinct camping areas with varying levels of activity. A visitor advises, "If you want a less busy area, find the older section" as "the new lakes are busy and full of RVs," allowing tent campers to find quieter locations away from larger rigs.
Hookup availability: Loess Hills Hideaway provides electrical options for those needing power. "They have cabins and R.V. spots for sure," confirms Tyler S., with thirty-amp hookups available for campers requiring electricity during their stay.
