Area Three Campground

For Nebraskans who appreciate the subtle beauty of our state's landscapes and the tranquility of an uncrowded escape, finding the right campground can make all the difference. If your idea of a perfect stop involves peace, ample space, and a connection to nature without the hustle and bustle of more developed sites, then Area Three Campground at Branched Oak Lake, near Raymond, Nebraska, is a destination you'll want to remember. This hidden gem offers a refreshing alternative for those traveling through or simply seeking a quiet retreat within our own beloved Cornhusker State.

Area Three Campground is a part of the expansive Branched Oak State Recreation Area, the largest of the Salt Valley Lakes near Lincoln. While Branched Oak offers a variety of camping experiences, Area Three stands out for its non-powered, more primitive camping options. This means you won't find bustling crowds or a plethora of modern hookups, but instead, you'll discover a serene environment where the sounds of nature prevail. It's a place where you can truly "kick back and relax," as one visitor noted, away from the busier sections of the lake.

For a local planning a road trip or simply needing a peaceful overnight stop, the value of a quiet and accessible campground cannot be overstated. Area Three offers just that – a space where you can unwind after a long day, enjoy the open sky, and feel securely settled in a natural setting. As one camper recounted their positive experience during a busy holiday weekend, it's clear that this campground often provides "lots of sites unclaimed, and lots of room," even when other popular areas are full. This makes it an invaluable resource for spontaneous travelers and those seeking solitude.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what makes Area Three Campground an excellent choice for Nebraskans. We'll cover its precise location and accessibility, detail the services it offers (and what to expect from a non-powered site), highlight its unique features, and provide essential contact information. Our goal is to offer a clear, engaging, and factual overview that helps you plan your next peaceful outdoor adventure in Nebraska.

Location and Accessibility

Area Three Campground is located at Branched Oak State Recreation Area, specifically addressed as Raymond, NE 68428, USA. This places it approximately 2.5 miles north of Malcolm via S-55M, and is part of the larger Branched Oak Lake system, the largest of the Salt Valley Lakes near Lincoln. For Nebraskans, its location offers superb accessibility, making it an excellent stop whether you're embarking on a long cross-state journey or just seeking a short local escape.

The campground is conveniently situated within easy reach of Interstate 80 (I-80), a major east-west artery that traverses Nebraska. This makes it an incredibly practical overnight stop for travelers, as highlighted by a camper who found it "perfect for my overnight travel needs" on a trip from Denver to Wisconsin. The main entrance to Branched Oak State Recreation Area, often located off West Branched Oak Road, is well-marked and navigable for various vehicle sizes, including larger RVs.

While the address is Raymond, NE, Area Three is part of the extensive Branched Oak SRA network, which encompasses 5,595 acres with 1,800 acres of water. The specific location of Area Three within this large recreation area is known for being "out of the way, not in the busy part of lake." This characteristic is a significant advantage, ensuring a quieter and less congested experience, even during peak seasons. Despite its tranquil setting, the campground benefits from its proximity to Lincoln (a reasonable driving distance away), providing access to city amenities, supplies, and services when needed. The combination of easy interstate access and a secluded, peaceful setting makes Area Three Campground a highly desirable and practical choice for any Nebraskan.

Services Offered

• Non-Powered Campsites: Area Three Campground primarily offers non-pad sites without electrical hookups. This means campers will need to be self-sufficient, either utilizing their RV's internal power systems, bringing a generator, or enjoying a true primitive camping experience.
• Drinking Water Access: Potable drinking water is available within Branched Oak State Recreation Area at various points, accessible to campers in Area Three.
• Restrooms and Showers: While Area Three itself might offer more primitive restroom facilities (such as vault toilets), modern restrooms and shower houses are available within Branched Oak State Recreation Area, typically located at more developed campgrounds like Middle Oak Creek (Area #4) and South Shore (Area #1), which are accessible to all park visitors.
• Dump Stations: Multiple dump stations are provided within Branched Oak State Recreation Area for convenient wastewater disposal, serving all campers in the park.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Camping at Area Three is typically on a first-come, first-served basis, particularly for its non-powered sites. Campers pay their fees through a self-service "Iron Ranger" system (cash or check). This offers flexibility for spontaneous trips without the need for advance reservations.

Features / Highlights

• Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: A paramount feature of Area Three is its serene environment. Visitors consistently praise it as a "quiet campground" and "a really good place kick back and relax," ideal for those seeking respite from noise and crowds.
• Ample Space: Even during holiday weekends, Area Three often has "lots of sites unclaimed, and lots of room," providing a sense of openness and privacy rarely found in busier campgrounds.
• Affordable Pricing: As a non-powered campground within a State Recreation Area, the camping fees are very reasonable. One camper reported paying "$12 for the non-res vehicle plus $15 to camp," totaling $27, which is highly economical for an overnight stay.
• Proximity to Branched Oak Lake: Campers have convenient access to the largest of the Salt Valley Lakes, Branched Oak Lake, which spans 1,800 acres of water. This offers extensive opportunities for boating (all types allowed), fishing (various species including walleye, bass, and catfish), and swimming at designated beaches.
• Extensive Recreational Opportunities within Branched Oak SRA: While Area Three itself is simple, being part of Branched Oak SRA means access to a wealth of activities. These include miles of hiking, biking, and horse trails, equestrian camping areas (in other parts of the park), a marina with boat rentals, a bar/grill, disc golf, horseshoe pits, and areas for wildlife viewing, particularly bald eagles in spring.
• Ideal for Overnight Travelers: Its location near I-80 and its quiet nature make it an excellent choice for a restful overnight stop during longer road trips.

Contact Information

Address: Raymond, NE 68428, USA (Part of Branched Oak State Recreation Area)

Phone: (402) 783-3400 (Branched Oak State Recreation Area Office, managed by Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)

Email: ngpc.Branched.Oak@nebraska.gov

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Nebraskans seeking an authentic, tranquil, and value-driven camping experience, Area Three Campground at Branched Oak Lake is exceptionally suitable. It embodies the best of Nebraska's outdoors, providing a no-frills yet highly rewarding escape that caters perfectly to local preferences.

Firstly, its strategic location within Branched Oak State Recreation Area, easily accessible from I-80 and a short drive from Lincoln, makes it incredibly convenient for residents across the state. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or need a peaceful stop during a longer journey across Nebraska, the ease of access minimizes travel time and maximizes your leisure. This practicality is a significant advantage for Nebraskans balancing busy schedules with a desire for outdoor adventures.

The non-powered, primitive nature of Area Three is a key draw for many locals. It caters to those who appreciate a genuine camping experience, away from the hum of constant electricity and crowded sites. For RVers equipped with generators or tent campers, it offers a refreshing return to basics, fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment. This quiet atmosphere is invaluable, providing a true sense of relaxation where the sounds of nature replace urban noise, allowing for peaceful nights under the vast Nebraska sky. As one reviewer noted, it’s a place to "kick back and relax," a sentiment many Nebraskans truly value.

Furthermore, the affordability of Area Three Campground makes it an accessible option for frequent use. Providing a comfortable and secure place to stay for a modest fee ensures that more Nebraskan families and individuals can enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation without a significant financial burden. This value-for-money approach resonates strongly within our communities.

Finally, as part of the extensive Branched Oak State Recreation Area, campers at Area Three have access to a wealth of activities at the largest lake in eastern Nebraska. From fishing, boating, and swimming in the vast waters of Branched Oak Lake to exploring miles of hiking and biking trails, the opportunities for outdoor engagement are abundant. This provides a diverse recreational experience, catering to various interests, all within a short distance from a peaceful home base. For Nebraskans, Area Three Campground is more than just a campsite; it's an invitation to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the simple, genuine pleasures that define the spirit of our state.