Tent camping near Springfield, Nebraska focuses primarily on state recreation areas situated along waterways. Several locations provide sites specifically designed for tent campers on level ground within a 30-mile radius. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with most campgrounds closing during winter months due to freezing temperatures and limited maintenance services.
What to do
Water recreation access: At Riverside Campground, campers can enjoy the Platte River directly from their sites. "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," notes one visitor. The campground connects to water activities including fishing, tubing, and swimming when conditions permit.
Trail exploration: The recreation areas feature interconnected trail systems. "There's a nice bicycle trail that leaves the park and winds out to Hormel Park on the Platte River," reports a camper at Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area. Most trails are relatively flat, suitable for family hiking, and range from 1-3 miles in length.
Nature observation: Local campgrounds support wildlife viewing opportunities. "The park has deer and turkey and many birds," mentions a Riverside camper. Morning and evening hours provide optimal wildlife viewing, particularly around water features. Some camping areas include basic nature centers with educational materials about local ecosystems.
What campers like
Lake-based recreation: Area Three Campground provides direct access to Branched Oak Lake. "Our site was a few hundred yards from the lake, and we had a great morning walk," reports one tent camper. The eastern section features waterfront sites particularly appealing to those seeking proximity to swimming and fishing.
Convenience to urban areas: Many campers appreciate the short travel time from Omaha. "A short drive from Omaha, Two Rivers offers generally clean tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds," states one reviewer. Most locations are accessible within 45 minutes of Omaha, making them practical for weekend getaways without extensive travel.
Spacious camping areas: The region offers generously sized tent sites with natural spacing. "Big beautiful sites" mentions a camper describing the older section at Fremont Lakes. These areas typically provide sufficient room for standard family tents plus additional space for camp kitchens or gathering areas.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds operate with limited services during shoulder seasons. The primary camping season runs mid-April through late October, though some facilities remain accessible year-round with reduced amenities.
Noise considerations: Railroad proximity affects several camping areas. Campers should anticipate train traffic when selecting sites. As one Fremont Lakes visitor notes, "There are very busy train tracks that run about every 20 minutes all day and all night."
Facility maintenance: Bathroom facilities vary considerably between locations. Wirth Brothers Lake features basic outhouses that "could be kept up better" according to one camper, while others note that Fremont Lakes offers "very clean facilities, cleanest I have ever seen in a campground."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature play structures for children. At Riverside Campground, one parent mentions, "My boys (4 and 7) loved it. There's a short walk to the outhouse and playground." Most playgrounds are centrally located near bathroom facilities.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs provide learning experiences for children. "The park has many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom," explains a Scout leader who regularly uses Two Rivers for group outings.
Site selection strategy: Sterling Village Park and similar facilities operate seasonally from mid-April through late October. Families should reserve sites furthest from train tracks and main roads for quieter camping experiences, particularly with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: While many campgrounds accommodate both tents and RVs, hookup availability varies significantly. Johnson County Fairgrounds provides a sanitary dump station but limited other services for RVs.
Campground layout considerations: RV campers often prefer the newer sections at Fremont Lakes. "The new lakes are busy and full of RVs. If you want a less busy area, find the older section," advises one tent camper describing the campground organization. Most RV sites feature 30/50 amp connections with varying levels of shade depending on location.
