Tent camping near Seward, Nebraska offers multiple recreation opportunities within Lincoln's surrounding counties. The area encompasses lakes, river access points, and state recreation areas across the Platte River watershed. Sites range from free primitive tent camping to designated campgrounds with modern facilities. Average summer overnight temperatures reach lows of 60-65°F while spring and fall campers should prepare for temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bruning Dam Recreation Area provides access for anglers with two small primitive sites. "Best suited for an outdoorsman that's hunting or fishing," notes Dana T., who appreciated the basic amenities including an available bathroom.
River activities: Riverside Campground — Two Rivers SRA offers river-based recreation during summer months. "The river is decently safe and a good place to tube," according to Emily M. Another camper mentioned, "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 options: Several tent camping locations feature walking trails connecting campgrounds to nearby natural areas. "A nice bicycle trail that leaves the park and winds out to Hormel Park on the Platte River," reports Anji L., who enjoyed the woodsy setting and extensive walking paths.
What campers like
Water access: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area Tent Campsites features multiple small lakes across the grounds. Alyssa E. notes, "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."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the maintenance of sanitation facilities at established campgrounds. "Facilities were very clean. Cleanest I have ever seen in a campground," comments one Fremont Lakes visitor, while another reports "friendly staff and a very nice and clean campground" at Riverside.
Proximity to urban amenities: Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground provides tent camping close to town services. "Located near downtown Wahoo. $20 per night for full hookup. Appear to be approximately 40 sites," notes Lucian F., highlighting the convenient location.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds in the region experience significant noise disruption. At Fremont Lakes, Alyssa E. warns, "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."
Cost considerations: Area Three Campground has higher fees for primitive sites. "Cost- $12 for out of state plates and $15 for a site without amenities is steep," mentions Chelsea K., while another camper states, "For $15 you can do better in Nebraska."
Site selection: Many campgrounds offer variable experiences based on which section you choose. "The lake was awesome, not much shade on most tent sites. Make sure you ask when they dredged the lakes that you want to stay on," advises Molly M. about site selection at Fremont Lakes.
Tips for camping with families
Quick getaway option: For families near Omaha, Two Rivers provides accessible nature experiences. "A short drive from Omaha, two rivers offers generally clean TV and tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds. My boys (4&7) loved it," shares Michael M.
Educational opportunities: Several local parks offer nature programs for children. "The park has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom," explains Robin E. about Powerhouse Park.
Weekday visits: Family campers often find weekdays provide a quieter experience. "There were not any other campers but I could see it getting pretty busy on the weekends," notes Emily M., suggesting mid-week visits for families seeking more solitude.
Tips from RVers
Site availability: RV campers report varying experiences with site access during peak seasons. Charles C. notes that at Area Three Campground, "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."
Morning disturbances: Early maintenance activities can disrupt campers. "We were also by the dumpster, and they came by to empty it around 7am. Probably a Monday morning problem, but still worth mentioning," reports Chelsea K. at Area Three Campground.
Seasonal differences: Campground conditions change significantly across seasons. "Late October tent camping- low around 19F... we seemed to be the only souls in the place," shares one winter camper, contrasting with summer crowding mentioned by other reviewers.
