Less than an hour-long drive from Omaha is one of eastern Nebraska’s top destinations for outdoorsy families: Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area. This large park has several beaches for day trippers as well as campsites. It’s a great park close enough to Omaha for those looking for a dip in a lake or relaxing under the shade of trees.

What You’ll Find At Fremont Lakes

It’s not like a state park in the sense that you’ll find daily programming and a lot of facilities, but it’s not lacking either.

At the biggest lake, Victory Lake, you’ll find a bar and grill/convenience store with a sand volleyball pit. It sells soda and beer, snacks and bait.

Around Victory Lake, you’ll also find playgrounds, several bathrooms (some with running water) and the park administration office.

We found a table and grill at Victory Lake and that’s where we spent most of our afternoon there. It was great, since it right by a beach and park (and a short distance from another newer park, too).

Water activities

My kids are content just playing in the sand and splashing in the shallow beach areas. You can find swimming beaches on Lakes 9, 10, 15 and 20. Swim at your own risk – there are no lifeguards here.

You’ll find boaters, jet skiers and water skiers, around a couple of the lakes, as well.

Other lakes are designated fishing lakes.

Camping

Some campgrounds can be reserved ahead of time. Find out what’s available HERE.

We didn’t check out campsites too closely, so I’ve got no recommendations on which is best.

Anyone have campsite recommendations?

More about the lakes

Getting to Fremont Lakes SRA is a bit confusing for first-timers, especially if you’re specifically looking for a beach or a fishing lake. The park is spread out with more than one entrance.

Before setting up in a spot, drive around to be sure you’ve seen it all.

We stopped at the first clear beach we could find. While it felt like a private beach, there was a reason no one was there. Two reasons.

Wind.

And glass. Everywhere.

We moved on before one of us got a shard in the foot and found Victory Lake. The wind was buffered a bit, and it was definitely a busier lake.

Beyond water sports and playgrounds, families have several other activity options if you plan ahead. We brought bikes, and the flat park provided an easy outing. There isn’t a bike path so you have to be comfortable on the road.

We also had some bread to feed the geese.

YOUR TURN:

What are some other things your family loves to do at Fremont Lakes SRA?

 

If you go

Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area

Where: 4349 W. State Lakes Road, Fremont, Neb. I marked the map for Victory Lake so you can easily find our favorite spot in the park.

Cost: A state park permit is required for entrance. Swimming is free once you’re in the park. Bring your own watercraft.