Oak Grove Campground

For Nebraskans seeking a quintessential outdoor escape, Oak Grove Campground in Waterloo stands out as a highly recommended destination. Nestled within the beloved Two Rivers State Recreation Area, this campground offers a blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it a favorite among local campers. It's an ideal spot for those looking to reconnect with nature, enjoy a weekend getaway, or embark on a memorable family adventure without venturing too far from home.

Oak Grove Campground consistently receives high praise from visitors for its well-maintained facilities and inviting environment. Reviews highlight "very nice campground" with "clean restrooms & shower house," indicating a commitment to guest comfort often sought after in outdoor settings. The campsites themselves are described as "nice size" and "shaded," providing a comfortable and private space for campers, whether they are in tents or RVs. This thoughtful design ensures a pleasant stay, even during warmer months, and allows groups to easily camp together, as noted by appreciative visitors who value communal experiences.

The broader Two Rivers State Recreation Area, of which Oak Grove Campground is a part, is renowned for its diverse recreational opportunities. Spanning 622 acres with 320 acres of water across seven sandpit lakes, the area is a haven for water enthusiasts. Beyond traditional camping, visitors can enjoy fishing, non-powered boating, and a designated swimming beach. For those seeking truly unique lodging, Two Rivers also offers renovated Union Pacific cabooses for rent, providing a distinctive overnight experience. Oak Grove, while being one of the smaller campgrounds within Two Rivers, maintains its tranquil charm and provides an excellent base for exploring all that the recreation area has to offer.

Oak Grove Campground is conveniently located at 27702 F St, Waterloo, NE 68069, USA, placing it within the Two Rivers State Recreation Area. Its position makes it incredibly accessible for residents across Eastern Nebraska, particularly those from Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding communities. Waterloo itself is a charming town just west of Omaha, offering easy access to essential supplies while maintaining a serene, rural ambiance.

Reaching the campground is straightforward, with well-maintained paved roads leading directly into Two Rivers State Recreation Area. From Omaha, you can take Q Street west, or Center Street to 264th Street and turn south. From Lincoln, Interstate 80 East to the Gretna exit, then north on Highway 31/6 to Q Street and west, will lead you there. If coming from Fremont or Valley, Highway 275 to the Meigs Street/252nd exit in Valley, then south on 264th Street, will bring you to the park entrance. Once inside Two Rivers, signage will direct you to the various campgrounds, including Oak Grove. The accessibility of Oak Grove Campground, combined with the excellent road conditions, ensures a stress-free journey for all types of vehicles, from compact cars to large RVs, making it a popular choice for quick weekend getaways or longer vacations.

As part of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission's Two Rivers State Recreation Area, Oak Grove Campground benefits from a comprehensive suite of services and amenities designed to enhance the camping experience. These facilities cater to a wide range of needs, ensuring comfort and convenience for all visitors.

Services Offered:

• Campsites: Oak Grove offers padded campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 50 feet in length. Many sites are reservable, allowing groups to plan stays together.
• Electrical Hookups: Campsites are equipped with electric hookups (30 amp and 50 amp, with some having water hookups), catering to modern RV needs.
• Restrooms and Showers: Very clean modern restrooms and shower houses are conveniently located, a consistent highlight in visitor reviews.
• Drinking Water: Access to drinking water is available throughout the campground.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump and fill station is provided for RVs.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring or grill for outdoor cooking and enjoyment.
• Unsupervised Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach on Lake 4 is available for cooling off during warm weather.
• Boat Launch Access: Access to the area's seven lakes for non-powered boating (kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding).
• Accessible Facilities: Some sites and facilities are designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in the campground but must be kept on a leash (maximum 6 feet).

Oak Grove Campground, as a key component of Two Rivers State Recreation Area, offers numerous features that make it a highly desirable camping destination in Nebraska. From its natural setting to the thoughtful amenities, it provides a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Features / Highlights:

• Seven Sandpit Lakes: The primary highlight is access to seven sandpit lakes totaling 320 acres of water, providing abundant opportunities for fishing (including a put-and-take trout lake), non-powered boating, and a designated swimming beach.
• Shaded & Spacious Campsites: Campers consistently praise the "nice size, shaded" campsites, offering privacy and protection from the sun, which is particularly valuable during Nebraska summers.
• Clean and Modern Facilities: The "clean restrooms & shower house" are a significant draw, providing a comfortable experience often not found in more rustic campgrounds.
• Mostly Reservable Spots: The ability to reserve most campsites in advance is a key advantage, especially for groups or families who wish to camp together and secure their preferred spot.
• Unique Caboose Cabins: While not directly part of Oak Grove Campground, the nearby refurbished Union Pacific cabooses offer a truly unique lodging alternative within the same recreation area for those looking for a different kind of stay.
• Variety of Activities: Beyond camping, the broader Two Rivers SRA offers hiking trails (1 mile of marked trails and additional in the wildlife management area), picnicking areas, playgrounds, and wildlife viewing opportunities (deer, wild turkeys, waterfowl).
• Proximity to Urban Centers: Its location near Waterloo and Omaha means easy access to supplies, emergency services, and other attractions, making it convenient for short or extended stays.
• Accessible Fishing Pier: An accessible fishing pier on the south end of Lake 5 enhances fishing opportunities for all visitors.

For more information or to make reservations at Oak Grove Campground within Two Rivers State Recreation Area, here is the contact information:

Address: 27702 F St, Waterloo, NE 68069, USA

Phone: (402) 359-5165

Email: ngpc.two.rivers@nebraska.gov

Reservations for campsites can also typically be made online through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website (ReserveAmerica).

Office Hours: March 1 through July 4, 7:00 a.m. to Sunset. July 5 through December, 8:00 a.m. to Sunset. (Hours may vary seasonally; it's always best to confirm).

Oak Grove Campground at Two Rivers State Recreation Area is an outstanding choice for Nebraskans seeking a well-rounded and enjoyable outdoor experience. Its strategic location near major population centers like Omaha ensures easy access for a spontaneous weekend trip or a planned longer vacation. The emphasis on clean, modern facilities, particularly the restrooms and showers, addresses a common concern for many campers, guaranteeing a comfortable stay.

What makes this place truly suitable for locals is its balanced offering: the peace and quiet of nature combined with convenient amenities and a wide array of activities. Whether you're a family looking for safe, shaded campsites with playgrounds nearby, an angler eager to explore the seven lakes, or a group wanting to reserve adjacent spots, Oak Grove accommodates diverse needs. It allows Nebraskans to fully embrace the state’s natural beauty, engage in popular outdoor pursuits like fishing and non-motorized boating, and create lasting memories, all within a familiar and highly recommended local setting. It's a true gem for Nebraska's outdoor enthusiasts.

Oak Grove Campground

Waterloo, NE 68069, USA