Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area serves as the primary camping destination near Raymond, Nebraska, situated just a few miles from the town center. At an elevation of approximately 1,300 feet, the area experiences typical Midwestern seasonal variations with humid summers reaching into the 90s and winters dropping below freezing. Campers can expect relatively flat terrain with mature oak trees providing shade at select campsites throughout the recreation area.
What to do
Archery range access: Branched Oak Lake offers dedicated archery facilities for visitors looking to practice their skills. According to one visitor, "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" (Pat V., Branched Oak Lake).
Overnight stargazing: Clear night skies create optimal conditions for stargazing at Lake Cunningham Campground. A camper notes: "Nighttime is great for stargazing and they have pretty stellar sunrises. We enjoyed the archery range and took plenty of walks" (Pat V., Branched Oak Lake).
Kayaking in no-wake zones: Paddle through designated quiet water areas at Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area. One visitor mentioned: "My first time camping in Nebraska. Ive been to several throughout the US. Loved the spot, I was right next to the lake, great swimming access. Downside drinking water access was difficult" (Jennifer T., Branched Oak Lake).
Biking on lake perimeter trails: Cycle around Lake Wanahoo's perimeter on the maintained gravel path. A camper shared: "There is a gravel trail that goes all the way around the lake, which provides about a three mile loop. The trail also leads down into the town of Wahoo" (Pat V., Lake Wanahoo).
What campers like
Fishing access from campsites: Certain waterfront sites at Branched Oak Lake provide direct fishing access. One camper noted: "Middle Oak Creek campground has a row of 10-12 electrical spots that are perfect for shore fishing, kayak launch, lakeside views! South Shore campground sits lakeside but at a higher elevation so water access is trickier" (Jen K., Branched Oak Lake).
Clean shower facilities: Pine Grove RV Park provides regularly cleaned bathroom facilities. A visitor stated: "We stayed here the first day ownership changed and met the new owners. They are a lovely family who are committed to turning things around. The facilities are well kept and clean" (E C., Pine Grove RV Park).
Swimming opportunities: Multiple locations offer swimming options for cooling off during summer months. According to one review: "This destination was so fun! Sites are shaded and spacious. Awesome playground, pool, water slide and more! Super cute place to stay with family" (Samantha S., Camp A Way Campground).
Kid-friendly amenities: Camp A Way Campground offers numerous activities designed specifically for children. A camper shared: "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" (Heather A., Camp A Way).
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season, particularly with locals. One camper advised: "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!!!" (Jen K., Branched Oak Lake).
Highway noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to Interstate 80. A visitor mentioned: "Close (but not too close) to I-80, we stayed here as a way point cruising across Wyoming/Nebraska/Iowa. Clean facilities, quiet vibe, it was just what we needed after a long day of driving" (Jessica, Pine Grove RV Park).
Limited shade at newer sites: Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area lacks mature trees for shade. According to a review: "Unfortunately when the lake and campground were built they planted saplings, so during the hot months there is no shade to be found" (Pat V., Lake Wanahoo).
Storm preparedness: The region can experience severe thunderstorms during summer months. A camper reported: "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" (Kevin A., Branched Oak Lake).
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Several campgrounds welcome pets with dedicated exercise areas. One visitor noted: "Very clean. Helpful friendly staff. Huge, clean dog run shaded with locust trees. Best dog run we have seen this trip" (Jan S., Camp A Way).
Nearby attractions: Platte River State Park Campground offers unique activities beyond standard camping. A visitor shared: "There is a splash park, shooting, archer ranges, horseback riding. There is a r.v. park, cabins, and a newer tent area. There is also the 2 lookout towers" (Tony B., Platte River State Park).
Water activities for various ages: Multiple options exist for water recreation beyond swimming. One camper mentioned: "They also offer boat rentals. We travel a lot and I have to say for a private campground this is a nice one" (Shannon G., Camp A Way).
Budget considerations: City park camping options provide economical alternatives. A reviewer noted: "First come, first serve campground city park. Large lake, walking trail. Seems that some site are 'reserved' by placing the picnic table on the concrete pad" (Barbara P., Weeping Water).
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Be aware of where sanitation facilities are located relative to camping areas. A camper advised: "To get to the dump station you have to leave the campground, get on the highway and drive to the opposite side of the lake to the day use area. These were just installed a couple years ago" (Pat V., Lake Wanahoo).
Site selection for larger rigs: Cottonwood — Two Rivers SRA offers various camping areas with different amenities. A visitor noted: "Two rivers has several lakes with a variety of different fishing options, though I must admit we do not fish much! The crowd is always there though, for what it's worth" (Morgan W., Cottonwood — Two Rivers SRA).
Power options: Different campgrounds offer various electrical hookup configurations. According to one camper: "The sites for big rigs are not 3 axle friendly. The site provided was not long or wide enough. The electrical box, water and sewer are placed too far to the rear of the site" (Ray R., Pine Grove RV Park).
Off-season availability: Consider visiting outside peak periods for less crowded experiences. A visitor mentioned: "We went in the off season so we had a lot of space to ourselves. Would be a great place to stay if you're going to go to a corn huskers game-short drive to the stadium" (GW C., Camp A Way).
