Branched Oak Lake near Raymond, Nebraska sits at 1,230 feet elevation within the Salt Valley watershed. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often reaching the 90s and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in the Raymond area remain open year-round, though water systems are typically winterized from October through April.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking: The Oxbow Trail System near Ashland RV Campground provides technical terrain for cyclists of all skill levels. "It is also right by a killer mountain biking trail (lookup Oxbow Trail System on Trailforks if you are into that)," notes Andrew D., who visited multiple times.
Geocaching: Several family-friendly geocaching opportunities exist within walking distance of campgrounds. "To entertain my kids (ages 6-12), there were several geocaches to find within walking distance," reports a visitor to Ashland RV Campground.
Water recreation: Czechland Lake Recreation Area permits non-motorized boats for peaceful paddling. "There is a water fill and lake to kayak and use non-motorized boats," confirms Stacy D., who visited in 2025.
Archery: Practice target shooting at designated ranges in recreation areas. "I love the whole park - especially the archery range!!" mentions Debra B. about Pawnee Dam Site 14 Campground.
What campers like
Sunset views: Campers consistently mention exceptional sunset viewing opportunities. "We also love the front row seat to fabulous sunsets," remarks Allison B. at Pine Grove RV Park & Campground, where westward-facing sites provide optimal viewing.
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds offer shore fishing without requiring boat access. "We love camping on the south shore. Can kayak right by your campsite," notes Steph S. about Area One Campground.
Clean facilities: Several rv parks near Raymond maintain high cleanliness standards. "The bathhouse was recently replaced. It is clean. Shower rates (bring quarters) are reasonable. $.50 for 3 minutes and every $.25 gives another 90 seconds," reports Kyle S. at Pawnee Dam Site 14 Campground.
Walking trails: Well-maintained trails suitable for various ability levels surround many campgrounds. "Well maintained walking trails that are perfect for dogs," notes Chris A. about Czechland Lake Recreation Area in 2024.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campsites require significant leveling equipment. "We stayed at site number 8 which may be one of the more unlevel spots. The passenger side of our 5th wheel was about 7" lower than driver side and rear of fifth wheel was about 3" lower than front before we levelled out," warns Chris A. about Czechland Lake.
Highway noise: Several Raymond-area rv parks experience interstate noise. "Close (but not too close) to I-80, we stayed here as a way point cruising across Wyoming/Nebraska/Iowa," explains Jessica about Pine Grove RV Park & Campground.
Seasonal algae blooms: Lakes occasionally close due to toxic algae. "The lake was closed due to a toxic algae bloom which meant that is was a little quieter than normal," notes Bran P. about their stay at Pawnee Dam Site 14 Campground.
Shower payment systems: Bring quarters for pay showers. "The change machine was either broken or out of change but that seems to be the norm this year at Nebraska parks," warns a camper at Pawnee Dam Site 14 Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground offers extensive child-friendly amenities beyond standard playground equipment. "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," reports Camden O.
Storm shelter awareness: Check whether campgrounds have designated storm shelters before arrival, especially during severe weather season. "The weather was a bit up in the air for some of the weekend and they do not have any storm shelters, so that is about the only thing does require an upgrade," notes Pat V. about Czechland Lake Recreation Area.
Weekend noise levels: Family-focused weekends can become louder than weekdays. "We were here during the week so it wasn't too busy. We were told the weekends could get rowdy," explains Shannon G. about Area One Campground.
Weekday camping advantages: For quieter experiences with fewer crowds, plan mid-week visits. "It's great for overnighters in the middle of the week," advises Brian C. about Pawnee Dam Site 14 Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: RVers with larger vehicles should request specific site numbers to ensure adequate space. "We had a pull-thru site with Electric and Water. The site was a level, gravel pad with a picnic table and a large fire ring," describes a camper at Pine Grove RV Park & Campground.
Electronic payment options: Some Raymond area rv parks now offer contactless payment methods. "Pay with your phone with QR code scan to pay so no need to have cash or check," explains Stacy D. about Czechland Lake Recreation Area, which charges $18 nightly for electric hookups.
Electrical hookup variations: Verify amperage before booking as not all sites offer 50-amp service. "Some sites have 30 and 50 amp hookups," confirms Chris A. about Czechland Lake Recreation Area.
Water access locations: Not all campgrounds have water hookups at individual sites. "No water hook up at the camp sites. They have water you can fill up your fresh water tank," notes Tony D. about Area One Campground.
