Branched Oak Lake provides a range of equestrian camping options approximately 17 miles northwest of Hickman, Nebraska. The recreation area contains multiple campgrounds with varying amenities for horse owners and riders. Area 2 features large campsites specifically designed to accommodate horse trailers alongside camping equipment. Riders can access a network of trails directly from the equestrian camping area.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area offers excellent fishing access with dedicated shore fishing spots. "This is the best lake in Nebraska for camping! They are tent sites right by the lake. There's a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding," notes Jordan H., highlighting the combination of water activities available.
Winter camping: For those seeking solitude, winter visits provide a different experience. At Bluestem State Rec Area, Erik M. reports, "Really nice and clean place to relax for a couple days. And it's not busy if you like winter camping like I do." Winter campers often enjoy having these recreation areas nearly to themselves.
Target shooting: Several state recreation areas maintain archery ranges. Tony B. recommends, "Check out Blustem if you like to get away from RV heavy camps like I do. You'll find clean raised toilets, trails, and archery range, boating, fishing and hunting here." The archery ranges provide a structured alternative to hiking and water activities.
What campers like
Quiet alternatives: While equestrian camping near Hickman is popular at Branched Oak Lake, some riders prefer less crowded alternatives. "Not a bad lake to camp at; offers decent fishing, decent kayaking, and a swim beach. You may run into lots of party-folk depending on when you come here," reports Jared J. about Bluestem State Rec Area.
Direct lake access: Campers value waterfront sites for easy equipment access. At Wagon Train State Recreation Area, Timothy notes, "This was a pretty neat spot. The trees were a bit small, but they had to replant due to a storm. You should go check it out here. It is really nice and clean." These sites provide convenient water access for horses and riders alike.
Off-season visits: Many equestrian campers prefer shoulder seasons when campgrounds are less crowded. "We camped here in early spring with my boys and another family and we had the place to ourselves," Joe R. shares about his experience at Bluestem. Spring and fall visits often provide more space for horse trailers and equipment.
What you should know
Train noise: At Louisville State Recreation Area Campground, campers consistently mention the railway disruption. Bill M. simply states, "Train noise all night," while Chrisne E. elaborates, "We liked everything about this area but the train tracks! Be selective on where you pitch the tent. It can get loud."
Bathroom facilities: Availability of bathrooms varies considerably across recreation areas. Kevin A. notes at Branched Oak Lake: "5 night stay in late June. 2 days after damaging storm. Lots of broken branches and one totalled 5th wheel but still a very pretty park. Negatives are disgusting showers; felt like I was in prison as you must pull on a chain to get water."
Reservation limitations: Some equestrian camping areas require advance planning while others operate first-come, first-served. Jen K. advises about Branched Oak Lake, "This One of our favorite places to 'get away' to for fishing, camping, etc. Be warned: VERY BUSY campground as it is super close to a highly populated city. Plan ahead and reserve a spot or go early in the week otherwise you won't get a pad!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground offers extensive family options beyond equestrian camping. Jennifer M. shares, "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids including paddleboating, a wave pool, horse riding, ziplining, and playgrounds. Modern restrooms with showers and power are available."
Budget considerations: When camping with families near Hickman, factor in additional activity costs. Meghan H. notes about Eugene T. Mahoney, "I picked this campground as a stopping point on the way to Yellowstone primarily for the pool for the kids. The pool is awesome. It was, however, expensive. $10 for adults (even as a non swimmer) and $8 for kids plus $3 to rent a tube for the wave pool."
Multi-generational camping: Some parks cater better to diverse age groups. Camden O. reports, "There are so many activities from your typical hiking experience to spending the day at the water park to being able to take the family mini golfing." These structured activities complement horseback riding opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Syracuse City, RVers note the unusual setup. Lynn J. explains, "We found 30 and 50 amp power pedestals. We stayed beside a pavilion with a water hydrant. The pavilion has several picnic tables and 20 amp outlets. It's in a treed area with a nice playground. The whole area is very flat. Leveling was a breeze."
Weather precautions: Weather conditions can affect horse camping experiences dramatically. Pat V. shares about Branched Oak Lake, "We stayed here for a mountain bike race weekend. Nighttime is great for stargazing and they have pretty stellar sunrises. We enjoyed the archery range and took plenty of walks. The shower facilities need a lot of updating and the RV spots are pretty dated with narrow roads."
Hookup variability: Water and electrical connections can be inconsistent between camping areas. ANDY C. reports about Wagon Train State Recreation Area, "There are only 3-4 spots with water hookup which are taken. Water is available to fill tanks. The roads around this area are almost all gravel including the main strip through the camp area so you'll have to find your way around to minimize time on gravel."
