Tent camping opportunities near Waterloo, Nebraska primarily cluster around the Missouri River and smaller recreational lakes within a 20-mile radius. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in the glaciated till plains region with hot summers regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters. Most campsites feature level terrain with mixed grass and dirt surfaces, though flooding can affect riverfront sites during spring months.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: Two Rivers State Recreation Area offers river access for campers with tent sites positioned within close proximity to fishing spots. According to a visitor, "A short drive from Omaha, two rivers offers generally clean TV and tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds. I camped right by the river. Also a short walk to the outhouse and playground." Some campers wade in the water during low-flow periods, as one reviewer notes: "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 at Preparation Canyon State Park: Located approximately 45 miles northeast of Waterloo, this park offers tent-only hiking opportunities with 8 miles of trails. A camper reports, "Beginner to intermediate level trails that are good for the whole family. 340 acres with nearly 8 miles of trails to explore." Another mentions, "There's a trail up a hill right near by that had great views of the area and a lovely sunset!"
Disc golf access: Area Three Campground provides direct access to disc golf facilities for tent campers staying near Branched Oak Lake. One reviewer noted, "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."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Riverside Campground at Two Rivers SRA appeals to campers seeking water proximity. A visitor explains, "Our favorite campground is Riverside for tent camping. There are spots where you can tent camp right by the river." Another adds, "It's nice this site is near the river but it's just your basic campground. You'll find a pretty flat area with access to the river and basic amenities."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds receive praise for maintenance standards. One visitor to Riverside Campground stated, "Friendly staff and a very nice and clean campground." Similarly, at Fremont Lakes, a camper noted, "Facilities were very clean. Cleanest I have ever seen in a campground."
Secluded options: Loess Hills Hideaway provides more remote camping experiences. A camper reports, "I've camped here a few times. They have cabins and R.V. spots for sure. Owner is very nice and the bathrooms if you need them are clean and well maintained."
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area tent sites experience significant noise disruption. A visitor warns, "Big beautiful sites, BUT 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. Plus, it's right next to a busy highway so you get to hear the locals revving their over-sized trucks into the early hours."
Limited shade coverage: Tent campers should prepare for sun exposure at most sites. One reviewer of Fremont Lakes notes, "The lake was awesome, not much shade on most tent sites." Bringing portable shade structures is advisable during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Site limitations: Some recreation areas offer minimal actual camping. A visitor to Pelican Point State Recreation Area reports, "This is really not a state park or camping spot. There is a boat ramp to the Missouri river, a parking lot, and about 2 primitive camping spots."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access tent sites: Preparation Canyon State Park offers family-friendly options despite being hike-in only. A visitor explains, "I chose the closest walk-in spot, less than a mile in. It was great! Near a little creek if you need water, and really nicely secluded. Picnic table and fire ring included."
Consider weekday visits: Weekend crowding affects some sites at Two Rivers. One regular visitor notes, "It does get loud during weekends but that's because everyone is having so much fun!" Weekday camping provides a quieter experience for families with young children.
Educational opportunities: Two Rivers SRA provides nature education options. A reviewer shares, "We have also used other campgrounds at Two River SRA for Cub Scout campouts. The park has many, many opportunities to earn badges. You can even take a short hike into a little outdoor nature classroom."
Tips from RVers
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Area Three Campground provides only basic facilities despite fees. A camper notes, "Yet other than the regular old picnic table, burn pit and rather dirty vault toilet, there is nothing else here. For $15 you can do better in Nebraska." Consider this when selecting tent camping locations near Waterloo.
Temperature planning: Late season camping requires preparation. A tent camper at Area Three Campground reported, "Late October tent camping- low around 19F... we seemed to be the only souls in the place." Bring appropriate cold-weather gear for spring and fall camping in the region.
