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Best Tent Camping near Omaha, NE

543 Reviews

Tent campers near Omaha, Nebraska have several established options within a 30-mile radius of the city. Two Rivers State Recreation Area offers riverside tent sites where campers can set up directly along the water, while Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area provides multiple tent-specific campsites spread across several small lakes. Both locations require state park permits and offer varying levels of amenities for tent campers.

Most tent sites in the Omaha region feature flat, grassy terrain with minimal privacy between sites. Facilities vary significantly between locations, with some sites offering nearby drinking water and vault toilets while others provide more developed amenities including showers and electrical hookups. At Fremont Lakes, campers should be prepared for train noise throughout the night. One camper noted, "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." Sites at Riverside Campground tend to have better access to water recreation but limited shade options.

For those seeking more primitive tent camping experiences, Preparation Canyon State Park across the Iowa border offers walk-in backcountry tent sites with significantly more seclusion. The park features eight designated backcountry campsites, each equipped with a fire ring and picnic table, accessible only by hiking trails. A visitor commented that "sites are dispersed around the area so camping is always private," making this a suitable option for tent campers seeking solitude. The canyon area provides unique landscapes within the Loess Hills region, with primitive camping conditions requiring proper preparation. Water access is limited to creek tributaries, and campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste from these hike-in tent sites.

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Best Tent Sites Near Omaha, Nebraska (10)

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Showing results 1-10 of 10 campgrounds

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Omaha, NE

6 Photos of 10 Omaha Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Omaha, NE

543 Reviews of 10 Omaha Campgrounds

  • J
    Aug. 28, 2020

    Arrowhead Park Campground

    Peaceful Serenity

    I arrived just in time to see the beautiful sunset over the small lake near the primitive campground closest to the Park Office. It only cost $10 for tent camping and $3 for a vehicle pass. Campground and vault toilets were pretty clean. There is a fire ring and picnic table at each tent campsite and there are plenty to choose from near the water. You can bring your own kayak or canoe and even fish here. We had a nice encounter from the campground employee who explained how to put the stake out to claim our campsite. Right away, I saw abundant wildlife, including turkey, deer, black squirrels, woodpeckers, geese, ducks and bats. Come prepared for the mosquitoes but overall I would highly recommend this place!

  • Tarrah C.
    Apr. 5, 2023

    Waubonsie State Park Campground

    Nice Trails

    This is a great weekend spot not much to do around the park. The campsites are nice but close with not much space in between. There are 2 campgrounds, the one north of the highway is a horse campground but required. There are nice trails in this area. The campground on the south is more of a tent site. There are vault toliets, no showers. A lot of great trails o this side. All campsites include a picnic table and fire ring.

  • D
    Sep. 16, 2020

    Memphis Lake State Rec Area

    Camping Right on the Lake

    It is a nice spot a bit off of the main roads. Many of the tent sites allow you to camp right next to the lake. It's generally pretty quiet and people respect the 10 pm quiet hours rule. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring.

  • C
    May. 5, 2024

    Czechland Lake Recreation Area

    Great first come first serve campground

    This is a nice small campground that is well taken care of. We stayed at site number 8 which may be one of the more unlevel spots. The passenger side of our 5th wheel was about 7" lower than driver side and rear of fifth wheel was about 3" lower than front before we levelled out. 

    Pros:

    -Well maintained walking trails that are perfect for dogs

    -Most sites have 30 and 50 amp hookups

    -Fire rings and picnic tables at most sites

    -$18 a night for electric hookups

    -Quiet

    Cons:

    -Some sites are very unlevel  

    -No water or dump station

  • Jennifer T.
    May. 28, 2024

    Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area

    Beautiful spot

    We spent Memorial weekend here in 2022. We had to park in a designated parking spot and walk in to set our tent. The site was shady and came with a picnic table, fire ring and We were right on the shores of the lake. It was a beautiful and very relaxing to hear the waves, although the wind coming across the lake was mighty fierce and destroyed the canopy that we had over the picnic table. And the beating of the tent all night long was a little hard to get some decent sleep. But the area was nice and close to the restrooms and spacious campsites

  • Kyla B.
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Czechland Lake Recreation Area

    Peaceful

    Has fishing, kayaking, hiking, 3 covered picnic areas with electricity, wildlife watching, no-wake boating, 11 (50 amp) RV/tent pads/sites at $20 per night, 3 free non-electrical RV/tent pads/sites, & free tent camping area by the dock. No park permit required. Can pay for pads/sites with cash or with mobile phone. Sites have trash cans, picnic tables and fire rings. Primitive bathrooms available. Water spigots available and working. No dumpsite. Dogs welcome but must be leashed.

    May be difficult parking for larger rigs (35ft+) due to the one way entrance and curvature of the campground. Also note that you will need to bring leveling blocks for nearly every site since the campground is build on a hill.

    https://lpnnrd.org/outdoor-recreation/czechland-lake-recreation-area/

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Lake Manawa State Park Campground

    Nice metro campground

    Large concrete pads with patio and permanently mounted mesh steel picnic table with a fire pit grill on the corner.. Lakeside locations are quite well spaced with a panoramic Lake view. small restroom and shower pair with unisex entry. Quite spartan, but relatively clean. Trees surround the campground, but none provide any campground shade. Entry gate code required, which provides some security. all amenities are available within a limited distance. Some lake activity noises during the day, and depending upon wind, some aircraft traffic, otherwise very quiet.

  • Sarah H.
    Aug. 7, 2016

    Arrowhead Park Campground

    Easy Family Camping Near Omaha

    Our family and another family shared a primitive tent site near the back of the park. We were first and foremost impressed with the freedom we had in choosing our site. Tent camping here is non-reservable, but once you enter the park, you may choose from any spots containing a fire pit outside of RV loops. Tent sites range from lake-front, to playground side, to more private sites on the outer rim of the park. We chose a large, private site at the back of the park. This site was well maintained and had enough space to easily accommodate two families of four. We even had a picnic shelter all to ourselves. Our site was lined by woods and farmland and had a good view of a small pond. The night was full of exciting animal noises from both the nearby farm and pond. Vault toilets were a short walk away with clean shower facilities just a few loops away. The kids enjoyed riding bikes up and down gravel roads, looking for frogs, and playing on the playground. Canoe and paddle boat rental is extremely reasonable. Hiking trails near the park entrance are rugged. The staff was incredibly kind and easy-going, yet attentive. Just a short drive from neighboring towns, this is a good starter campground for families with younger kids. We hope to return in winter to check out the camping cabins.

  • Michael M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2024

    Riverside Campground — Two Rivers SRA

    Quick getaway to nature

    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.

Guide to Omaha

Explore the great outdoors with tent camping near Omaha, Nebraska, where you can find a variety of campgrounds offering unique experiences and amenities.

Tips for tent camping near Omaha

  • For a primitive experience, consider staying at Pelican Point State Rec Area, which features basic amenities like vault toilets and a scenic boat ramp.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, Area Three Campground offers a secluded environment perfect for enjoying nature, though amenities are minimal.
  • Be prepared for a rustic experience at Johnson Park, which is a lovely city park but does not allow camping, making it ideal for day visits.

Local attractions for outdoor enthusiasts

  • Enjoy fishing and walking paths at Luther Hormel Memorial Park, a beautiful park in Fremont, though camping is not permitted.
  • Experience the charm of the Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground, conveniently located near downtown Wahoo, where you can enjoy full hookups and easy access to local attractions.
  • Take a hike at Preparation Canyon State Park Campground, known for its scenic trails and unique geological features, perfect for those who love exploring nature.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • At Loess Hills Hideaway, you can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking and relaxing by the campfire in a well-maintained environment.
  • For a unique camping experience, visit Lyons Park, where you can take advantage of drinking water access while enjoying the park's natural beauty.
  • Experience the beauty of the Loess Hills at Olde Towne Co Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature, despite the lack of amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any lakeside tent camping options around Omaha?

Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area Tent Campsites offers excellent lakeside tent camping with access to multiple small lakes for water activities. While some tent sites lack shade, the lake access makes it a popular choice for water enthusiasts. Another option is Area Three Campground at Branched Oak, which features primitive camping on a peninsula with waterfront sites available on the east end. This location provides convenient access to a beach, disc golf, and shower facilities just up the road.

Where are the best tent camping sites near Omaha, Nebraska?

For tent camping near Omaha, Riverside Campground — Two Rivers SRA is a top choice just a short drive from the city. It offers clean tent sites right along the river, making it perfect for weekend getaways. Families particularly enjoy this location for its proximity to playgrounds and easy river access. Another excellent option is Preparation Canyon State Park Campground, which provides a more secluded backpacking experience with well-maintained trails and private campsites. It's an ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful natural setting within driving distance of Omaha.

What amenities are available at tent campgrounds near Omaha?

Amenities at tent campgrounds near Omaha vary widely. Most sites provide basic facilities like picnic tables and fire rings. Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground and similar developed campgrounds often offer flush toilets, showers, and potable water. More primitive sites like those at Loess Hills Hideaway typically have vault toilets and limited services. Many campgrounds around Omaha feature playgrounds, hiking trails, and water access. Some locations offer additional recreational amenities such as boat ramps, fishing areas, and sports facilities. Availability of firewood, cell service, and electrical hookups varies significantly between locations.

How much does tent camping cost in the Omaha area?

Tent camping costs around the Omaha area vary by location and amenities. Pelican Point State Rec Area charges approximately $15 for their primitive campsites. Most state recreation areas and parks in the region typically charge between $10-25 per night for tent sites, with price variations based on amenities, location, and whether it's a walk-in or drive-up site. Some locations like Luther Hormel Memorial Park may offer more budget-friendly options. Remember that many parks also require a state park entry permit, which is an additional cost to consider.

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