Two Rivers State Recreation Area RV & Campground Guide
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Two Rivers State Park is found in eastern Nebraska near the city of Waterloo. The park's 662 acres encompass seven small lakes and provide access to the Platte River. With so many bodies of water, this is a favorite for anyone looking for a place to fish, swim, and go boating while surrounded by a beautiful landscape. The park opened in 1960 and is named for its location between the Elkhorn and Platte rivers.
Spring 29 - 73 F
Summer 62 - 86 F
Fall 29 - 78 F
Winter 14 - 37 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Two Rivers State Recreation Area
Two Rivers State Park features five campgrounds. Cottonwood Campground is on the north side of the park with 49 pull-through sites that include electric hookups. Some are by reservation only. Fawn Meadows Campground is on the south side of the park with 12 sites offering electric and water hookups. Those looking for a primitive experience will enjoy Riverside Campground, which offers 37 basic sites.
Oak Grove Campground is the smallest one with only 16 sites. It does offer electric hookups. Next to it, you’ll discover Goldenrod Campground, which sits on the shores of Lake 4. This is where guests will find the swimming beach. All campgrounds have restrooms, drinking water stations, and playgrounds nearby.
What to Do at
Two Rivers State Recreation Area
There are always activities to participate in at Two Rivers State Park with several lakes and rivers offering swimming, boating, and fishing. Hiking is also popular, which allows you to explore the park’s wildlife and natural beauty up close. While camping here, you’ll be able to enjoy picnics at any one of the designated areas, which include convenient grills.
The park’s education center provides guests with a wonderful way to learn about the history of the Two Rivers State Park. This park is open all year round with ice fishing and winter hiking drawing in visitors during the colder season.
Fishing
Anglers will enjoy catching bass, catfish, and bluegill in the park’s large lake. Lake 5 is open for fishing from mid-March to July. An accessible fishing pier on the south end provides fishing opportunities for those with physical disabilities.
Nature Watching
While visiting Two Rivers State Park you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife species such as deer, wild turkeys, squirrels, and cottontails. Bird watchers will appreciate the waterfowl, along with the pheasant and quail.
Stargazing
Because Two Rivers State Park is off the beaten path, it’s an ideal location for stargazing. The remoteness of the park means that you’ll have less light pollution coming from cities, which interferes with your view of the night sky.
Flora and Fauna
As you explore Two Rivers State Park, you’ll find a variety of terrain such as lush forests, wetlands, and grasslands providing natural beauty.
Hiking
You’ll find one mile of marked hiking trails in Two Rivers State Park. You can also hike within the park's 342-acre wildlife management area. Hiking in the park ranges from easy to moderate and is suitable for all skill levels and ages.
Boating
No motor boats are permitted in Two Rivers State Park. However, you can enjoy kayaking, rafting, canoeing, and paddle boarding on the seven small lakes and Platte River.
Swimming
Swimming is permitted only at the beach on Lake 4. The beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. No lifeguard is on duty, so you may want to bring along a life jacket.
How to Get to
Two Rivers State Recreation Area
From Omaha, Nebraska, head east on Harney Street. Turn left on S 31th Street. In 0.2 miles, take a left on US-6 W/Dodge Street. Continue on US-6 W and follow the signs for Boys Town. Take the W Dodge Road/US-275 E exit towards NE-92/Wahoo. Turn left on US-275 E. Go straight onto the NE 28E link. Turn left on S 264th St/Two Rivers State Recreation Road and enter the park.
Entering Two Rivers State Recreation Area
Parking lots are found at the main entrance and throughout Two Rivers State Park. In addition to driving, cycling and walking are excellent ways to get around in the park. Park office hours are from 7:00 a.m. to sunset from March 1st to July 4th. From July 5 to December the park is open from 8:00 a.m. to sunset.
You’ll need a Nebraska State Park Permit to enter Two Rivers State Park. A daily permit is $6 for Nebraska residents and $12 for out-of-state vehicles.
Daily Permit (Nebraska Residents) : $6.0
Daily Permit (Non-residents) : $12.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Two Rivers State Recreation Area
With boating, fishing, and swimming the main activities at Two Rivers State Park, the summer season is the best time of year to visit. The warm weather is also ideal for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Deer, waterfowl, wild turkeys, and bald eagles are common within Two Rivers State Park. You may also see quail, squirrels, cottontail, and pheasant during your visit.
There are 143 designated campsites available among Two Rivers State Park’s five campgrounds. Amenities include modern restrooms, showers, and a dump station.
Some campsites require an advanced reservation, but others are first come, first served. Camping reservations are available up to one year in advance of arrival for half of the electrical campsites. All other camping is first-come, first-served. Pricing for campsites starts at $15 per night.
Pets are allowed in all day-use areas unless signs prohibit them. You must supervise your pets at all times. They need to be in a crate or on a leash that’s six feet or shorter in length.