Best Equestrian Camping near Columbus, NE

Camping area 2 has a lot to offer, even if you don't own a horse.

The area is well known for being the equestrian camping area at one of the finest lakes in Nebraska. Pull through sites with full hookups, equestrian trails, and corals. Yet few people realize that there is a nice RV and tent camping area, lovely inlet with lakesides slabs, Boat docks, and Boat ramps. Showers are not available at area #2 but are available at a closeby area #1.

The lake has some nice trails including the equestrian trail that comes from the park. The park has several beaches 2 of them very close. There are archery and shotgun ranges at the lake and a decent disc golf course.

At a popular lake, this is a nice yet secluded camping area that often gets overlooked.

Pawnee is a lake that offers the ability of various water and other activities. There are the obvious acitivies for the water. Such as fishing, all types of motor boats, jet skies, all types of water skiing and tubing. I did see numerous kayaks at campsites I passed by as well. But kinds seemed to have to rough of water for a novice like me. There are also a couple swimming beaches, nature trails, horse shoe pits, and a disc golf course. I want to say that the trails are used for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, because I saw a couple road apples. Honestly that don't bother me because I watch were I step, due to some parks I have visited have venomous snakes on The trail. The campsites for tents did have some shade for lake camping. The rv park seems to be fairly close together, but that could be common because I am a tent camper and don't pay attention that close. There is a horse camp on The other end of the lake west side that has corals in it. I would say that Pawnee is a definite a stop even for a day trip for outdoor or nature enthusiasts. Especially sense it's just out side west of Lincoln.

Pawnee Lake State Recreation Area was within 30 minutes of Lincoln, NE . Try to make sure all essentials are packed to enjoy your stay without frequent trips to town. This is one of those spots where you can easily park the car and use other means of transportation for your whole visit.(ie, feet, bike, boat, horse, etc.)

There are options to where you camp. RV sites and tent in three different areas. This is not my favorite sort of tent camping, you have to park and walk everything to your site. Some tent sites are located right on the lake which is nice, you can easily park your watercraft nearby. However if it’s busy your neighbors are going to be very nearby. Not much privacy in that case. We however were completely alone when we visited, the crappy weather played a part I’m sure. Shade, which we didn’t need and picnic tables. If you have a hammock you may have an issue with getting it hung, bring alternate means of suspension.

The trails are multi-use so pay attention. We were hiking in the rain so did not see anyone but the trail apples were fresh. Were we hiked it was grassy and mostly level, there was an area where hikers had trails to themselves and a few benches to sit on.

The lake looked nice but I didn’t see anyone on it. I didn’t see any algae signs but the weather may have been a factor too. We overnighted so I didn’t get to completely explore the entire area. It was pretty quiet, some motor noises but they were more of a background noise. Worth an extended stay as long as the lake is open.

Pawnee SRA is a well maintained family friendly SRA North West of Lincoln Nebraska. You’ll find powered and primative sites accommodating RV’s to tents. Pawnee can be busy during Husker Football Saturdays in the fall as an alternative to expensive lodging in town so plan ahead. You’ll find fun hiking trails along a creek, a shower house, playground, and even an archery range. In the fall this campground is near hunting land so wear bright clothes if you are going on a hike. This is one of my family’s favorite SRA’s within 30 minutes of Lincoln. You won’t regret a stay at this beautiful campground.

The campgrounds were well manicured and very clean. Shower house was decent but could have been a little larger with more stalls. The host and Nebraska Game and Parks patrolled literally every 1/2 hour which we actually liked so there was no issues with people breaking the rules. The lake was good sized for our 29 ft boat and there was even a free boat dock with 8 slips to use. Tons of jet skiers on the water though and alot of them seemed under age or amateurish as in they did not mind the rules of the water. There were several sandy beaches to stop and swim. Overall it was a pleasent stay.