Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area offers multiple equestrian camping options within 30 miles of Roca, Nebraska. The recreation area maintains separate facilities for horse riders at the Area 2 campground. Trail access varies seasonally, with some routes closed during wet conditions to prevent trail damage. Winter camping is available with reduced services from October through April when temperatures can drop below freezing at night.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area, the lake provides multiple shore fishing spots accessible from campsites. "Middle Oak Creek campground has a row of 10-12 electrical spots that are perfect for shore fishing, kayak launch, lakeside views!" according to Jen K.
Water activities: Families can enjoy paddling and swimming during summer months when water temperatures warm up. "There's a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals," notes Jordan H. Water access points vary by campground section.
Stargazing: Clear nights offer excellent viewing conditions away from city lights. "Nighttime is great for stargazing and they have pretty stellar sunrises," reports Pat V. about Branched Oak Lake. The open layout of most campsites provides unobstructed views of night skies.
What campers like
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced services. At Bluestem State Rec Area, Erik M. notes it's "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 camping requires additional preparation for cold temperatures.
Variety of terrain: The mix of wooded areas and open grasslands creates diverse camping environments. "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," recommends Joe R.
Less crowded options: Several smaller campgrounds offer quieter alternatives to the busier horse camping areas. "This was a pretty neat spot. The trees were a bit small, but they had to replant due to a storm," reports Timothy about Wagon Train State Recreation Area, which typically sees fewer visitors than Branched Oak.
What you should know
Campground capacity: During peak season (May-September), equestrian sites fill quickly on weekends. "Plan ahead and reserve a spot or go early in the week otherwise you won't get a pad!!!" advises Jen K. Horse campsites require advance planning.
Weather considerations: Spring conditions can create muddy trails that may be temporarily closed. "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," shares Kevin A.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience transportation noise. At Louisville State Recreation Area Campground, Justin R. warns "at night the trains go by about every 17 minutes. The tracks run right get along the park." Location selection matters for noise-sensitive campers or horses.
Reservation systems: Park permit requirements apply to all vehicles. "This is a state-funded park, so non-Nebraska plated cars have an additional fee," notes one camper. Permits can be purchased online or at entrance stations.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground offers extensive activities beyond trail riding. "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," shares Camden O.
Campsite selection: Choose sites based on proximity to restrooms and water sources. "The campgrounds and lake here are party central - which is fine, just know what you're getting into," warns Lauren T. about certain areas at Branched Oak Lake.
Activity planning: Schedule horse activities early in the day during summer. "It's always clean, and quiet in frequent visits we have had. They offer tent, and rv camping either off the lakes or river," notes Tony B. about Two Rivers SRA.
Playground access: Multiple recreation areas feature play equipment near camping areas. "Lots of trees for shade 7 lakes to fish platte river to boat in and 4 area's to choose from for camping tent or rv," shares Linda H. Playground locations vary by campground section.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service: Equestrian sites with RV hookups have variable electrical capacity. "The RV spots are pretty dated with narrow roads. We were glad it wasn't a weekend with a full campground," warns Pat V. about Branched Oak Lake.
Water hookups: Limited full-hookup sites exist for horse campers with RVs. "Lots of traffic in and out Kicking up dust all day even at early am hours, lots of vehicles and they drive fast," notes ANDY C. about dust conditions at Wagon Train.
Sanitary stations: Dump facilities have specific hours and may close seasonally. "They have a day use area for the river where you can go and visit in the day or picnic. They also have old remodeled Union Pacific caboose you can stay in," explains Tony B. about additional accommodation options.
Site spacing: RV sites for horse campers vary in size and privacy. "The camp sites are forked out like the cul-de-sac properties, each facing the road and having a large portion of the lake or greens to themselves on the back," describes Patheeka about the layout at Branched Oak Lake.
