Tent camping opportunities near Papillion, Nebraska extend beyond the immediate city limits into surrounding natural areas. The eastern Nebraska landscape features a mix of plains and river valleys with elevations averaging 1,000-1,200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during peak camping months, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with overnight lows in the 50-60°F range.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area provides access to over a dozen small lakes for fishing opportunities. A visitor noted, "Tons of water, a few trails, lots of sites to camp." The recreation area offers both busy and quieter sections depending on preference.
Archery practice: Wirth Brothers Lake maintains designated archery facilities alongside its camping areas. According to a camper, "Worth Brothers Rec Area is located west off Highway 50 on 733 road on gravel. It has drinking water, bathrooms, playground, archery, and a swimming beach."
Disc golf and beach access: Area Three Campground provides campers with convenient access to recreational activities. One visitor mentioned, "This is primitive camping on the peninsula of Branched Oak, so you get close access to Disc Golf, nice beach, and Showers just up the road." The east end features waterfront sites.
What campers like
Privacy options: Tent campers appreciate the secluded spots at certain campgrounds. A reviewer at Wirth Brothers Lake commented, "It is off the beaten path and has camping spots that offer some seclusion from other people. The campground was designed by boy scouts."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Riverside Campground — Two Rivers SRA provides a welcoming environment for families with young children. A camper 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."
Clean facilities: Some campgrounds maintain exceptionally well-kept amenities. A camper at Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area Tent Campsites reported, "Facilities were very clean. Cleanest I have ever seen in a campground." The recreation area offers an extensive trail system including a bike path.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Several campgrounds experience significant noise disruption. A Fremont Lakes camper warned, "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. Plus, it's right next to a busy highway."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Many tent camping options offer minimal facilities. At Area Three Campground, a visitor noted, "Yet other than the regular old picnic table, burn pit and rather dirty vault toilet, there is nothing else here. For $15 you can do better in Nebraska."
Cost considerations: Nebraska camping permits and site fees vary significantly. A late-season camper at Area Three Campground shared, "Cost- $12 for out of state plates and $15 for a site without amenities is steep. We were also by the dumpster, and they came by to empty it around 7am."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground provides affordable camping near downtown Wahoo. A visitor noted, "Located near downtown Wahoo. $20 per night for full hookup. Appear to be approximately 40 sites."
Nature education programs: Two Rivers SRA offers educational options for youth groups. According to campers, the park maintains an outdoor nature classroom accessible via short hike, making it suitable for scout groups seeking badge-earning opportunities.
Beach access for children: Several campgrounds feature water access points with shallow areas. A Wirth Brothers Lake visitor described, "It has a few fire rings, and raised grills. There is drinking water, bathrooms, playground, archery, and a swimming beach. $5 a day or $15 for annual permit."
Tips from RVers
Limited primitive boat access: Pelican Point State Rec Area offers minimal camping adjacent to water access. A visitor observed, "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." Recent maintenance includes mowed campsites despite access paths being in poor condition.
Seasonal considerations: Late fall camping requires preparation for cold temperatures. A tent camper at Area Three Campground shared their October experience: "Late October tent camping- low around 19f... we seemed to be the only souls in the place. Our site was a few hundred yards from the lake, and we had a great morning walk."
Hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer electrical connections for those needing power. Riverside Campground at Two Rivers SRA provides electric hookups at some sites while maintaining a natural setting. One camper remarked, "It's nice this site is near the river but it's just your basic campground. You'll find a pretty flat area with access to the river and basic amenities."
