Tent camping options near Valparaiso, Nebraska extend beyond the immediate area to accessible locations within a 30-mile radius. The region features several state recreation areas with designated tent camping, plus city parks with primitive camping options. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, with limited wintertime availability. Camping permits cost $5-20 depending on amenities and park status.
What to do
Fishing access: Riverside Campground at Two Rivers SRA provides direct waterfront tent 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 Robin E. about the recreation options.
Bike riding: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area features extensive paved paths for cyclists. "Very woodsy feeling through the whole park and a nice bicycle trail that leaves the park and winds out to Hormel Park on the Platte River," writes Anji L. about the recreational opportunities.
Lake activities: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area Tent Campsites contains multiple small lakes for water recreation. One visitor mentions, "There are at least a dozen small lakes part of the grounds," making it ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming during summer months.
Morning wildlife viewing: The quiet mornings at Area Three Campground provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. "Our site was a few hundred yards from the lake, and we had a great morning walk," reports Chelsea K., highlighting the accessibility of nature trails.
What campers like
Quieter camping sections: The older section at Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area provides a more secluded experience. "If you want a less busy area, find the older section," advises Alyssa E., noting the contrast with the busier RV-focused areas.
Clean facilities: Multiple campers note the exceptional maintenance of restroom facilities at Fremont Lakes. "Facilities were very clean. Cleanest I have ever seen in a campground," reports one visitor who was impressed by the park upkeep.
Affordability: Powerhouse Park in Columbus offers free primitive tent camping with basic amenities. "Free tent camping, good fishing in the canal. Close to town yet far enough away," writes Charles C., highlighting the cost-effective option.
Local food options: Some campgrounds provide convenient food services. At Riverside Campground, "There is a convenience store ran by a very nice family and they make a great breakfast for a low cost," according to one reviewer who enjoyed walking across the park for meals.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience significant railway disturbance. At Fremont Lakes, one camper warns about "a very busy set of train tracks that run about every 20 minutes all day and all night," suggesting earplugs may not be sufficient for light sleepers.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Area Three Campground provides minimal facilities for the price. "Yet other than the regular old picnic table, burn pit and rather dirty vault toilet, there is nothing else here," notes Charles C., who felt the $15 fee excessive for the level of amenities.
Site selection importance: At Riverside Campground, tent sites vary significantly in privacy and river access. "I have only ever used tent sites by the river. For the tent sites I wish there were more amenities but the one we stayed at was in a nice location," explains Emily M.
Weekend crowds: Popular water-adjacent sites fill quickly during summer months. "There were not any other campers but I could see it getting pretty busy on the weekends," one visitor observed at Riverside Campground, suggesting weekday visits for more tranquility.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Riverside Campground — Two Rivers SRA features play areas near tent camping. "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," shares Michael M.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs at Two Rivers provide learning experiences for children. "The park has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom," notes a visitor who brought Cub Scouts.
Alternative water recreation: When river levels fluctuate at Riverside Campground, nearby lakes provide backup swimming options. One family reported, "It does get loud during weekends but that's because everyone is having so much fun!"
Shade considerations: Most tent sites lack significant tree cover. "The lake was awesome, not much shade on most tent sites," warns Molly M. about Fremont Lakes, suggesting bringing canopies or shade structures for summer camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Saunders County Fairgrounds Campground provides affordable full-service sites. "$20 per night for full hookup. Appear to be approximately 40 sites," notes Lucian F., highlighting the value compared to state park rates.
Park section selection: At Fremont Lakes, different camping sections cater to different camping styles. "The new lakes are busy and full of RVs," mentions one tent camper who preferred the older section, indicating RVers should head to the newer development for better accommodations.
Sanitation facilities: While many campgrounds offer dump stations, service availability varies seasonally. Multiple reviewers note the importance of checking which facilities remain open during shoulder seasons when water systems may be winterized.
Proximity to services: Centennial Park Campground balances nature with convenience to nearby towns. "Small towns tend to be quiet areas anyway and this is surrounded by small towns. Therefore it has that ALL is welcome feel," writes MomOfBoys W., noting the peaceful setting with access to necessities.
