Two Rivers State Recreation Area near Waterloo offers outdoor camping experiences along the confluence of the Elkhorn and Platte rivers. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with relatively flat terrain suitable for tent and RV camping. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F during camping season, with occasional thunderstorms creating muddy conditions at waterfront campsites.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Cunningham Campground offers excellent fishing access with a large stocked lake. "This lake is one of the very few in Omaha that offers camping. And definitely of all types rv, and tent," notes a visitor, adding that the property "offered rental boats for the lake, a really nice walking trail, and fishing."
Kayaking and paddling: Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area provides multiple water recreation options. "There's a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals," explains one camper. The lake has dedicated areas for different water activities, making it suitable for various skill levels.
Hiking trails: The Loess Hills at Hitchcock County Nature Center offer distinctive terrain for hiking. "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below," reports a visitor. The park features "a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail" alongside more challenging routes.
What Campers Like
Sunset views: At Cottonwood — Two Rivers SRA, campers appreciate the evening scenery. "The Cottonwood camp area lays right on the Platte River and it is beautiful watching the sunset over the water," shares one reviewer who calls the location a "Nebraska hidden gem."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Lake Cunningham, visitors note the updates: "The entire park is well maintained" and "New roads leading into the park." Camp A Way Campground receives similar praise: "Great management, easy reservations, lots of activities, clean bathrooms, well stocked store."
Variety of camping options: Platte River State Park Campground offers diverse accommodation choices. "There are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees!" explains one camper. The park features "4 tent sites... spread apart enough that your not on top of each other."
What You Should Know
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds face weather-related shutdowns. Haworth City Park has experienced flooding issues, with one visitor noting, "This park is right off the Missouri river, and everytime there is flooding this places gets shelled."
Highway noise: Several campgrounds near Interstate 80 experience traffic sounds. At Pine Grove RV Park & Campground, one camper reports, "It's sandwiched in between I-80 and the I-80 Speedway. Even w/ full hookups it's a bit overpriced."
Reservation requirements: Popular areas fill quickly. At Branched Oak Lake, "Plan ahead and reserve a spot or go early in the week otherwise you won't get a pad!!!" warns one visitor, explaining it's a "VERY BUSY campground as it is super close to a highly populated city."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Lake Wanahoo offers family-friendly water recreation. "Great fishing and kayaking lake! Bike path goes all the way around the lake. Sites are large and spaced out," reports a visitor. The town nearby provides food options: "The town of Wahoo has a cool butcher shop, so I always plan to pick up steaks, hot dogs or other grillable items."
Kid-friendly amenities: West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA Holiday provides structured activities for children. "Tons of activities (most were free, some with a small cost) and just what we needed," notes one family. Another mentions, "Everywhere you turn there was something to do. Good fun."
Playgrounds and recreation: Camp A Way Campground offers extensive play areas. "Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more! Super cute place to stay with family," says a visitor. The campground includes "a hand-built playground, basketball court, slip n slide, dog park, bounce stuff for kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choosing the right spot matters at many campgrounds. At Hitchcock County Nature Center, RVers can select from various site types. "The park has cabins, rv sites, tent camping and backcountry hike in camping," notes a visitor, making it suitable for different camping styles and equipment needs.
Hookup variations: RV campers should verify utility availability. At Lake Cunningham, "The sites have concrete pads with power, but no water or sewer. There is a fill station on the way in," explains one RVer, adding that showers cost "$1 for a hot shower in the comfort station, which is very clean."
