Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area offers extensive equestrian facilities beyond the primary Area 2 location. The horse camping area accommodates various experience levels with both primitive and developed options. Located approximately 25 miles northwest of York, Nebraska, these facilities provide trail connections that allow riders to explore the lake's perimeter through wooded sections and open prairie.
What to do
Trail riding around the lake: At Branched Oak Lake State Rec Area, riders can access a trail system that circles portions of the lake. "There's a huge no-wake area of the lake for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also offer boat rentals," notes Jordan H., highlighting additional water activities for non-riding days.
Archery practice: Practice your aim at the dedicated range. "We enjoyed the archery range and took plenty of walks," mentions Pat V., who visited Branched Oak for a mountain bike race weekend.
Stargazing sessions: The open areas around equestrian sites provide excellent night sky viewing. One visitor at Timber Point Wetland noted similar conditions: "The stars were spectacular! There's some black cows nearby that kind of stare at you with no emotion."
Fishing from shore: Many sites offer direct lake access for fishing. "Free showers are a great amenity as well. This is one of our favorite places to get away to for fishing, camping, etc," shares Jen K.
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Many equestrian sites offer water views. At Mormon Island State Recreation Area, campers enjoy similar amenities: "Spacious and well maintained campground... Our campsite loop bordered vegetation, was spacious between campsites, and fairly protected from Interstate noise. Had a fire ring and picnic table."
Well-maintained corrals: The dedicated horse facilities receive regular maintenance. At other nearby campgrounds like Bruning Dam Recreation Area, facilities are more limited: "Only two small sites and one appears to have sewage. There's a bathroom available. Best suited for an outdoorsman that's hunting or fishing."
Multiple camping loops: Different areas accommodate various preferences. "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," explains a regular visitor.
Clean facilities: The equestrian camping areas maintain high standards. "The facilities were very clean. (They need a shower house in the new section). Making the reservation was very easy. The people we did talk to were very nice," noted a camper at Mormon Island.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse camping sites fill quickly during peak season. As one camper at Branched Oak warns: "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!!!"
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly. At Bluestem State Rec Area, a winter camper noted: "Really nice and clean place to relax for a couple days. And it's not busy if you like winter camping like I do."
Weekday versus weekend atmosphere: Equestrian areas can get crowded and noisy on weekends. "If you're camping to get out in nature and relax, this is not what you're looking for. The campgrounds and lake here are party central - which is fine, just know what you're getting into," cautions Lauren T. about certain sections of Branched Oak.
Water availability: Check water points before arrival as some may be seasonal. "Downside drinking water access was difficult," noted Jennifer T. after camping at Branched Oak.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several camping areas include children's play equipment. "Nice playgrounds at both camp areas," notes a frequent visitor about the Middle Oak Creek and South Shore campgrounds.
Swimming beach guidelines: Family-friendly beaches have specific rules. One visitor to Bluestem State Rec Area shares: "Not a bad lake to camp at; offers decent fishing, decent kayaking, and a swim beach. You may run into lots of party-folk depending on when you come here."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy spotting local wildlife around horse trails. "No mosquitoes, but bullfrogs aplenty throughout the night. Only one other campsite was up at one of the drive-in locations that surround the lake... Nice quiet area with lots of fireflies, seemed well maintained," reports Abigail H. about her experience at Timber Point.
Site selection for families: Choose areas away from party spots. "It has plenty of greenery and is very well-maintained. It has a very clean beach area, a boat and kayak landing area and many children parks," recommends Patheeka about Branched Oak Lake.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: The central dump station serves all camping areas. "The Rv area has Electric and the sites are evenly spaced on black top and are level. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table," notes Shannon G. about a nearby RV-friendly campground.
Hook-up availability: Electric and water connections vary by section. "We were right next to the lake, great swimming access," Jennifer T. mentions, highlighting the benefit of waterfront sites.
Generator regulations: Some equestrian camping areas have specific generator hours. At Mormon Island, similar restrictions apply: "There are 3 different areas for campers, a tent area, a Rv area, and an area for generator use."
Parking configurations: Horse trailers require specific positioning at campsites. "We stayed here for a mountain bike race weekend. Nighttime is great for stargazing and they have pretty stellar sunrises... The RV spots are pretty dated with narrow roads. We were glad it wasn't a weekend with a full campground," notes Pat V. about Branched Oak.
