Buffalo County Recreation Area - Ravenna Lake

Nestled in the heart of Central Nebraska, the Buffalo County Recreation Area - Ravenna Lake stands as a highly valued local amenity, managed by Buffalo County to provide accessible and affordable outdoor recreation. This beautiful campground, located just outside the town of Ravenna, offers a serene lakeside escape that caters to various camping styles, from modern RVs requiring high-amp electricity to those seeking a simple, primitive tent site by the water.

The area is renowned for its well-maintained grounds, which are consistently praised for being "really clean" with no significant trash visible. Visitors enjoy the blend of natural beauty—featuring a pleasant lake, mowed grass, and shade in some areas—with crucial modern conveniences like electric hookups. The campground host is noted for being "super friendly," ensuring a welcoming experience for all who visit. Ravenna Lake is a perfect spot for families, anglers, and travelers looking for a comfortable base camp while exploring the Buffalo County region.

### Overview: Lakeside Amenities and Rustic Charm

The Buffalo County Recreation Area is focused around the centrally located Ravenna Lake, offering a distinct rural feel with direct lake access. The campground provides a variety of site types to match every budget and preference. Sites are available for both short-term stays and extended visits, although the area can get quite crowded, particularly on holiday weekends, due to its popularity and well-kept condition. The campground operates on a system where sites can be reserved in advance through services like Campspot, although some may opt for self-pay upon arrival, with the caveat that sites can fill up quickly.

An important piece of factual information for potential visitors, as highlighted in reviews, is the campground's proximity to an active rail line. While the campground itself is quiet and peaceful, the presence of frequent, audible trains rolling through is a noticeable element of the landscape. As one reviewer noted, it is "very noticeable," a trade-off for the convenient location and affordability, but one that many seasoned campers are willing to make for the overall quality of the stay.

### Location and Accessibility

The Buffalo County Recreation Area - Ravenna Lake is strategically located in the northern section of Buffalo County, Nebraska, near the town of Ravenna. This position places it within easy driving distance of larger Central Nebraska cities like Kearney and Grand Island.

The official address is:

5 Buffalo Lake Rd, Ravenna, NE 68869, USA

The campground is situated approximately 1 mile east of Nebraska Highway 2, and then a short distance north on Maple Road. The internal roads are manageable for large RVs, with various site types available. The "Lover's Lane" premium sites are known to be spacious and pull-through, easily accommodating big rigs up to 80 feet long. Accessibility to the campground's main facilities is good, though visitors should be aware that the main bathhouse/shower facility can be a "long walk" from some of the more spread-out premium sites, as noted by a large-rig camper.

### Services Offered

The Buffalo County Recreation Area offers a comprehensive range of camping services, catering to modern RV comfort while retaining primitive options.

• Premium Water & Electric RV Sites: These sites (e.g., "Lover's Lane") offer dedicated water hookups and electrical pedestals (50A, 30A & 20A). Pricing is set at approximately $30 per night.
• Water & Electric RV Sites: "Cozy Corner" back-in sites offer shared electrical pedestals and individual water hookups for around $25 per night.
• Electric Only RV Sites: "Shady Bend" sites offer shared electrical (20A, 30A, 50A) for approximately $20 per night, nestled in a tree canopy area.
• Primitive Tent/RV Sites: Basic sites with no water or electrical hookups are available for roughly $15 per night.
• Sanitary Facilities: Restrooms with showers are available, typically located near the entrance, though portable toilets (Porta-Potties) are sometimes available closer to the campsites during busy periods.
• Dump Station: A trailer dump station is available for camper use, typically located near the entrance/public works area.
• Picnic Amenities: All sites—including primitive ones—include a picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor use.
• Reservations: Unlike many county parks, sites can be reserved in advance through the Campspot system, though a fee may apply to lock in a specific site.

### Features / Highlights

The Buffalo County Recreation Area offers numerous recreational features that make it a favorite destination for both families and dedicated outdoor enthusiasts.

• Lake Activities: Ravenna Lake is a hub for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Important rule: boats are restricted to electric trolling motors or non-motorized only, ensuring a peaceful water experience.
• Angler Favorites: The lake offers good fishing opportunities for species such as crappie and bass, with an ADA Fishing Pier available for accessible angling.
• Family Recreation: The campground features a dedicated playground and a large, pleasant pavilion for group gatherings.
• Pet Amenities: The park is pet-friendly and includes a dedicated dog park area, allowing furry companions to exercise safely.
• Disc Golf Course: An 18-Hole Disc Golf Course is available, adding a popular recreational feature for all ages and skill levels.
• Premium Sites: The "Lover's Lane" sites offer an ideal experience with generous spacing and seclusion, which is highly valued by guests seeking privacy.
• Local Town Access: Ravenna is a short drive away and offers a "variety of shops in town," providing convenience for groceries, dining, and local exploration.

### Contact Information

For booking assistance, current rate confirmation, or questions regarding the facilities, contact the Buffalo County Park administration or utilize the online reservation system.

Address:

5 Buffalo Lake Rd, Ravenna, NE 68869, USA

Phone (Buffalo County Park Administration/Camp Host):

** (308) 236-1225**

Reservation Website:

Reservations are available online through the Campspot platform (search for Buffalo County Recreation Area - Ravenna Lake).

Emergency Contact:

Contact local authorities as needed, but the Camp Host is the primary on-site resource.

### What is Worth Choosing Buffalo County Recreation Area?

For Nebraska residents seeking a quality, lake-focused camping experience in the central part of the state, the Buffalo County Recreation Area - Ravenna Lake is an excellent choice, standing out for its site variety, modern utilities, and friendly atmosphere.

The most compelling reason to choose this park is the outstanding flexibility and value in its site offerings. Campers can select a premium, highly-spacious pull-through site with full 50-amp electricity for a modest fee or opt for an affordable primitive site, ensuring that the park fits virtually any camping style and budget. The recent clean-up and continued maintenance ensure that the facility feels welcoming and well-cared for.

Secondly, the recreational amenities are family-focused and plentiful. The quiet lake, restricted to trolling motors, is perfect for kayaking and serious fishing, while the large playground, dog park, and disc golf course provide ample entertainment on land. The presence of a friendly, on-site Camp Host further enhances the experience, providing assistance and ensuring a pleasant stay.

While the proximity to the rail line is a consideration, the overall blend of clean facilities, utility options, and waterfront activities solidifies Buffalo County Recreation Area as a top-tier county park destination in Central Nebraska, worthy of an extended visit.