Cottonwood Campground

Nebraska residents, are you longing for a serene and picturesque camping experience where you can cast a line, enjoy the gentle flow of the Platte River, and truly relax amidst nature? Cottonwood Campground, nestled within the expansive Two Rivers State Recreation Area in Waterloo, Nebraska, offers just that. Celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent fishing opportunities, this campground is a beloved local spot for a quiet getaway or a fun-filled family adventure without straying far from home.

Cottonwood Campground is one of several distinct camping areas within the 622-acre Two Rivers State Recreation Area. This popular state park, situated where the Platte and Elkhorn Rivers meet, boasts 320 acres of water spread across multiple sandpit lakes and peaceful wooded areas. Cottonwood Campground itself is renowned for its tranquil environment, offering beautiful, peaceful camping with great views of the Platte River. Visitors consistently praise the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for doing a "great job" maintaining the area, ensuring a pleasant and clean experience for all.

While Two Rivers State Recreation Area is known for its diverse offerings, including unique refurbished caboose cabins and a put-and-take trout lake, Cottonwood Campground provides a more traditional camping experience with the added benefit of scenic river views. The sites are generally flat and grassy with scattered trees, creating a comfortable and natural setting. It’s a place where you can easily unwind, enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors, and appreciate the beauty of Nebraska's landscape. Whether you’re an avid angler, a family seeking a quiet weekend, or simply looking for a pleasant overnight stay, Cottonwood Campground offers a welcoming and well-kept environment for your next adventure.

Cottonwood Campground is located within the Two Rivers State Recreation Area, with the general address being Waterloo, NE 68069, USA. The specific entrance to Two Rivers State Recreation Area is at 27702 F St, Waterloo, NE 68069-7012. This location places it conveniently on the banks of the Platte River, southwest of Venice and easily accessible from major metropolitan areas in Eastern Nebraska.

For Nebraska residents, the campground is a relatively short drive from Omaha (approximately 30-40 minutes) and Lincoln (approximately 1 hour), making it an ideal spot for a quick escape without extensive travel. Access to Two Rivers SRA is typically via Nebraska Highway 92, and the park is well-signed from the main roads. Once inside the recreation area, follow the signs to the Cottonwood Campground section.

The campsites within Cottonwood are generally flat with grass, which aids in an easy setup for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 60 feet in length. The roads within the park are paved, contributing to smooth access. Its location along the Platte River offers serene views and a sense of being truly immersed in nature, yet remains close enough to Waterloo for any necessary supplies or services. This balance of natural beauty and convenient access makes Cottonwood Campground a highly appealing choice for local campers.

Cottonwood Campground, as part of the larger Two Rivers State Recreation Area, provides a range of essential services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

• RV & Trailer Sites: Offers numerous padded sites, including some with 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups. Some sites also have water hookups.
• Tent Camping: Dedicated sites are available for traditional tent camping.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained facilities are available for campers' convenience.
• Drinking Water: Accessible at various points throughout the campground.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is conveniently located within the Two Rivers SRA for RVs.
• Concession Stand/Store: A convenience store is available within the Two Rivers SRA, often offering bait, snacks, and other essentials.
• Pets Allowed: Well-behaved pets are welcome at the campground, though they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
• Wi-Fi/Cell Service: While park-wide Wi-Fi may vary, cell service is generally reliable in the area.

Cottonwood Campground within Two Rivers State Recreation Area boasts several features and highlights that make it a favorite among campers, particularly those seeking a peaceful and nature-focused experience.

• Beautiful Platte River Views: Many sites within Cottonwood Campground offer direct views of the Platte River, providing a serene backdrop for camping and relaxation.
• Peaceful Camping Environment: Known for its quiet and tranquil atmosphere, Cottonwood Campground is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the sounds of nature.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The sandpit lakes within Two Rivers SRA are well-known for great fishing, including a put-and-take trout lake, making it a popular spot for anglers.
• Unique Caboose Cabins: While not directly within Cottonwood Campground, a major highlight of Two Rivers SRA are the ten refurbished Union Pacific cabooses, offering a unique and memorable lodging option for those who prefer not to tent or RV camp.
• Spacious, Grassy Sites: The campsites are generally flat and grassy, making for comfortable walking and easy setup.
• Walking and Biking Trails: The recreation area offers trails for exploring the natural surroundings, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With facilities like a swimming beach and various recreational opportunities within the broader Two Rivers SRA, it caters to families.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission consistently receives praise for keeping the campground and its amenities in excellent condition.

As a state recreation area managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Cottonwood Campground's pricing and any "promotions" are generally tied to the state park system's fee structure. While specific, short-term commercial discounts are not typical, there are established benefits and ways to make your visit more economical for locals:

• Nebraska State Park Entry Permit: A valid Nebraska State Park Entry Permit is required for all vehicles entering Two Rivers SRA. Locals can purchase an annual permit ($35 for a Nebraska Licensed Vehicle; $17.50 for a duplicate annual permit), which offers significant savings for frequent visits throughout the year compared to the daily permit ($7 per day).
• Competitive Nightly Rates: Camping fees for sites at Cottonwood Campground generally fall within the state park range of $15-$25 per night, depending on the type of hookups (electric only or electric plus water). These rates are competitive for the amenities and location provided.
• Reservations Available: Half of the electrical campsites at Two Rivers SRA (including Cottonwood) are reservable up to one year in advance. This is a crucial "offer" for securing a desirable spot, especially during peak season and weekends when the park is popular. Other sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Caboose Cabin Rentals: While an extra cost, the unique caboose cabins can be seen as a special offering, providing a different kind of lodging experience that is often sought after.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on entry permit costs, camping fees, reservation policies, and any seasonal programs or events, it is always recommended to check the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website (OutdoorNebraska.gov) or contact the park directly.

To plan your tranquil camping getaway at Cottonwood Campground within Two Rivers State Recreation Area, or for any inquiries, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Two Rivers State Recreation Area, 27702 F St, Waterloo, NE 68069, USA (Cottonwood Campground is a section within this park).

Park Office Phone: (402) 359-5165 (This is the primary contact number for the Two Rivers State Recreation Area office.)

Mobile Phone: +1 402-359-5165 (This number serves as an additional direct line for inquiries.)

For general Nebraska State Parks reservations and information, you can also call the centralized reservation line at (402) 471-1414, or visit the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website at OutdoorNebraska.gov/location/two-rivers/ for detailed park information and online booking.

For Nebraska residents, Cottonwood Campground at Two Rivers State Recreation Area is an exceptionally suitable destination for a local outdoor escape. Its prime location near Waterloo, just a short drive from Omaha and Lincoln, makes it incredibly convenient for spontaneous weekend trips or planned family vacations, minimizing travel time and maximizing relaxation. The affordability of a state park entry permit, especially an annual one, adds significant value for locals who wish to make frequent visits throughout the year.

What truly makes Cottonwood Campground shine for a local audience is its promise of a peaceful and natural setting. The beautiful views of the Platte River, combined with excellent fishing opportunities in the sandpit lakes, cater perfectly to those seeking a tranquil and engaging outdoor experience. The well-maintained facilities by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission ensure a comfortable stay, whether you're in an RV or a tent. While the unique caboose cabins offer an alternative lodging option, the core appeal of Cottonwood lies in its serene camping atmosphere. It’s a place where Nebraskans can easily disconnect, enjoy the beauty of their state's waterways, and create lasting memories with loved ones, all within a convenient and cherished local recreation area.