Tent campsites near Roca, Nebraska offer accessibility to both lakeside and riverside environments across southeastern Nebraska. The region features elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,400 feet with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds in this area experience high weekend occupancy rates from Memorial Day through Labor Day while maintaining quieter midweek availability.
What to do
Fishing access: Two Rivers SRA offers tent sites with direct river access where "the river is decently safe and a good place to tube" according to Emily M. The park also provides fishing opportunities with access to both the Platte and Elkhorn rivers.
Disc golf course: Area Three Campground provides campers with close access to a disc golf course as well as beach areas. Charles C. notes that the campground is situated "on the peninsula of Branched Oak" which creates convenient access to multiple recreation options.
Nature observation: Riverside Campground at Two Rivers SRA offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. Robin E. mentions that "the park has deer and turkey and many birds" making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Water recreation: Kirkmans Cove Recreation Area features a sand beach popular with local campers. Caitlin R. shares that "we enjoy Kirkman's for the sand beach and boating" with level campsites available near the water.
What campers like
River proximity: At Riverside Campground, tent campers appreciate waterfront sites. Robin E. shares that "there are spots where you can tent camp right by the river" and 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."
Quieter camping periods: Late-season camping provides more solitude at tent sites near Roca. Chelsea K. from Area Three Campground reported that during "Late October tent camping... we seemed to be the only souls in the place" despite temperatures dropping to 19°F overnight.
Convenience to urban areas: Two Rivers SRA provides tent camping opportunities within driving distance of Omaha. Robin E. appreciates that it's "far enough outside of Omaha to feel like a getaway and get back to nature. And close enough to Omaha to not feel like much work to go camping!"
Shade coverage: Many tent sites feature mature trees that provide essential coverage during Nebraska summers. Kirkmans Cove Recreation Area offers "level, and shaded" sites with "mature trees" according to Caitlin R., making them more comfortable during hot weather.
What you should know
Cost variations: Camping fees differ significantly between sites. At Wirth Brothers Lake, Shannon G. reports costs of "$5 a day or $15 for annual permit" for primitive camping, which contrasts with higher fees at other locations.
Facility maintenance: Bathroom facilities vary in cleanliness and upkeep across different campgrounds. Becky D. notes that at Wirth Brothers Lake, "the only downfall is the outhouses could be kept up better," a common observation at several primitive camping areas.
Site privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded tent sites than others. Wirth Brothers Lake "has camping spots that offer some seclusion from other people" according to Becky D., making it suitable for campers seeking more privacy.
Location accuracy: Not all mapped camping locations are accurate. James M. attempted to find Feits Memorial Park using GPS directions but found "there is no park of any kind. It was a residential neighborhood," highlighting the importance of verifying locations before travel.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground provides camping near downtown Wahoo with approximately 40 sites according to Lucian F., who notes it's a "Great Find" with full hookup options at $20 per night.
Accessible water play: Michael M. camps at Two Rivers with young children and reports, "My boys (4&7) loved it" and that the campground offers "a short walk to the outhouse and playground" making it manageable for families with small children.
Educational opportunities: Two Rivers SRA provides educational resources for youth groups. Robin E. shares that "the park has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom," making it suitable for scout outings.
Beach safety considerations: Families should monitor water conditions at Kirkmans Cove, which features a sand beach that children enjoy. However, Caitlin R. mentions "one disappointment is the playground which is dated and not much to offer," suggesting bringing additional entertainment for children.
Tips from RVers
Weekend crowding management: Riverside Campground tends to get busy during peak periods. Emily M. notes, "There were not any other campers but I could see it getting pretty busy on the weekends," suggesting booking midweek stays when possible.
Local amenities: Convenience stores and food options exist near some campgrounds. Robin E. mentions that at Two Rivers, "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."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited near Roca. Lucian F. found Saunders County Fairgrounds to be a valuable option with "$20 per night for full hookup" which is considerably less expensive than many other RV camping options in the region.
