The Pleasant Dale area offers several camping options within 20 miles of Lincoln, Nebraska. Located in the eastern portion of the state where elevations range from 1,100 to 1,300 feet, the region features rolling prairie hills surrounding various lakes and reservoirs. Summer temperatures typically reach the 90s with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions ideal for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Pawnee State Recreation Area offers a 9-hole disc golf course that provides recreational options beyond water activities. "Area 1 has a fun 9-hole disc golf course. There's a swimming beach at Area 1 as well but it's too cold this time of year," notes a Pawnee Dam Site 14 Campground visitor.
Archery practice: Several recreation areas maintain archery ranges for visitors seeking target practice. "I love the whole park - especially the archery range!!" mentions one long-time camper at Pawnee Dam Site. Similarly, Bluestem State Rec Area offers "clean raised toilets, trails, and archery range, boating, fishing and hunting."
Kayaking opportunities: The lakes around Pleasant Dale feature various no-wake zones perfect for paddlers. At Branched Oak Lake, "There's a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals," according to a visitor. The recently renovated Conestoga Lake also offers improved conditions for non-motorized watercraft.
What campers like
Proximity to Lincoln: Many campers appreciate how quickly they can reach these camping areas from Nebraska's capital city. At Conestoga State Recreation Area, one reviewer notes, "I like this site because I can get there within 20 minutes from my house in Lincoln. Paved roads and parking lot. Easy to use boat ramp."
Off-season tranquility: Winter and weekday camping provides a much different experience than busy summer weekends. "We were here during the week so it wasn't too busy. We were told the weekends could get rowdy," reports a camper at Area One Campground. Another visitor at Bluestem adds, "Really nice and clean place to relax for a couple days. And it's not busy if you like winter camping like I do."
Budget options: Free camping spots provide economical alternatives to state parks with entrance fees. Smith Creek Recreation Area stands out as completely free with basic amenities. "You can stay up to 14 days, free. Be sure to pack everything needed but there is a Walmart 15 minutes away," mentions one camper who stayed for multiple nights.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: The quality and type of restrooms differs significantly between campgrounds. At Smith Creek Recreation Area, "Bathroom and lots of spots to set up. Also looks like it might be getting an update with the pavilion," notes a repeat visitor. Meanwhile, some state park showers require quarters: "Shower rates are reasonable. $.50 for 3 minutes and every $.25 gives another 90 seconds."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can become problematic in wet weather. At Smith Creek, "The road in is typical gravel country road that can get a bit muddy with rain. My drive in spot was on the lake shore, no gravel so got quite muddy after the rain storm that blew through. Nebraska clay very slippery sticky and heavy."
Highway noise considerations: Several campsites sit near major roadways, affecting the wilderness experience. Conestoga campers note, "state park with a fishing and small fowl hunting area - therefore gunshots a little too close for comfort... the neighbor across the road has a dog outside at night that barks constantly - though there are coyotes heard within the same amount of distance."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Camp A Way Campground provides extensive recreation facilities beyond standard campground offerings. "This place has tons for kids to do. There is a hand-built playground, basketball court, slip n slide, dog park, bounce stuff for kids," reports a tent camping family.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas, though availability varies seasonally. A Camp A Way visitor shares, "Very nice campground. Kid friendly with tons of activities. Nice pool & hot tub. Clean laundry facilities and they even have a dog park."
City park alternative: For families seeking simple overnight stays with amenities, Beaver Crossing City Park offers budget-friendly options. "Stopped on our way from CO to MI, great little place that usually has no one there. Easy water and electric hookups with different options for 20, 30, and 50. Optional free or donation recommended with TONS of stuff right there! Playground, pool, campfire."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup details: RV campers should note which sites offer which amperage options. At Beaver Crossing City Park, "There are 7 sites with 50amp electric and water. The electric and water connections are at the back of this gravel parking lot. Behind the parking lot is a firepit and a grill. The RV campground is first-come, first-serve. A donation of $10 per nights is suggested."
Off-peak advantages: Visiting during non-summer months provides more site options. "Branched Oak is not the luxury park that Mahoney is but it is one of the premiere campgrounds at Branched Oak which is one of the premiere parks of Nebraska," notes a reviewer, adding that the West area "is high on a hill overlooking the water and has a shower/toilet within the camping area."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have on-site dump stations. At Pawnee, "The nice dump station is located a couple of miles down the road near the Park Office. There are a couple of day use areas located on the lake also with boat ramps."
