Camping areas around Pleasant Dale provide access to several lakes with fishing and boating opportunities. Located in eastern Nebraska at approximately 1,450 feet elevation, this region experiences hot summers and cold winters with transitional spring and fall seasons. Water recreation dominates camping activities at nearby state recreation areas, most within 30 miles of Pleasant Dale.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Smith Creek Recreation Area offers access to a creek-fed lake with a dedicated boat dock. "There are nice walking paths along the lake. You can stay up to 14 days, free. Be sure to pack everything needed but there is a Walmart 15 minutes away," notes Abby M.
Archery practice: Bluestem State Rec Area provides an archery range along with trails and water recreation. "Check out Bluestem 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," shares Joe R.
Mountain biking trails: The Ashland RV Campground connects to nearby trail systems. "It is also right by a killer mountain biking trail (lookup Oxbow Trail System on Trailforks if you are into that)," recommends Andrew D., who has stayed at the campground five times over three years.
What campers like
Lake views: Area One Campground offers elevated sites with water visibility. "In Area One we had full hook ups and a level site. There were picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. The shower house/restrooms were clean," reports Shannon G.
Local convenience: Camp A Way Campground in Lincoln maintains exceptional facilities for families. "This destination was so fun! Sites are shaded and spacious. Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more! Super cute place to stay with family," says Samantha S.
Quiet off-season camping: Pawnee Dam Site 14 Campground provides weekday tranquility for overnight stays. "Its great for overnighters in the middle of the week," Brian C. points out, while Tim C. adds, "Stayed overnight while on the road. Nice walking trails. Clean and quiet."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Storms can develop quickly in the region, requiring preparation. "We experienced a severe thunder storm. There was a camp host who made sure we knew where the storm shelter was on the night of our stay," reports Joe R. about Conestoga State Recreation Area.
Water quality alerts: Lakes sometimes close due to environmental issues. "The lake was closed due to a toxic algae bloom which meant that is was a little quieter than normal," shares Bran P. about Pawnee Lake.
Bathroom facilities vary: Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area has inconsistent shower facilities. "The shower facilities need a lot of updating and the RV spots are pretty dated with narrow roads," notes Pat V., while another camper commented, "No water hook up at the camp sites. They have water you can fill up your fresh water tank."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Campsites near water entry points allow for convenient recreation. "We love camping on the south shore. Can kayak right by your campsite. Lots of room between sites to play catch or yard games," says Steph S. about Area One Campground.
Playground amenities: Several campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "This Camp Area actually is two camping areas (east and west) the West is high on a hill overlooking the water and has a shower/toilet within the camping area. The East overlooks the play area and has a vault toilet," explains Charles C.
Geocaching activities: Some areas have established geocaching locations for family exploration. "To entertain my kids (ages 6-12), there were several geocaches to find within walking distance, and the town has a splash pad and pool during the summer months," notes Andrew D. about Ashland.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV sites near Pleasant Dale, Nebraska, choose locations based on specific needs. "We got in site #22 because it is close to the playground and is a full hookup site. The only downside to this campsite is the traffic noise," says Andrew D. about Ashland RV Campground.
Off-peak advantages: Consider visiting outside summer months for better availability. "We went in the off season so we had a lot of space to ourselves. It was very beautiful and open," reports Jayden K. about Branched Oak Lake.
Highway proximity consideration: Pine Grove RV Park provides convenient interstate access with some noise tradeoffs. "Convenient location right off the highway, but with that you do get the noise. Has a playground and pool as will as a convenience store. Bathrooms and showers were clean," explains Jennifer S.
