Area Three Campground

For Nebraskans who appreciate the simplicity and serenity of the great outdoors, with a focus on accessible and budget-friendly camping, Area Three Campground near Pleasant Dale offers a compelling option. Nestled within the vast expanse of the Pawnee State Recreation Area, this campground provides a more rustic experience compared to full-service resorts, emphasizing connection with nature. While it may not boast elaborate amenities, it delivers on the core promise of camping: a place to park your rig or pitch your tent, enjoy the quiet, and immerse yourself in Nebraska's natural beauty. This article will provide a detailed look at Area Three Campground, guiding local users through its location, offerings, and what makes it a suitable choice for a genuine Nebraska camping adventure.

Area Three Campground is located in Pleasant Dale, NE 68423, USA. More specifically, it is situated within the expansive Pawnee State Recreation Area, which is well-known to many Nebraskans as a popular destination for outdoor activities. Pleasant Dale is a small community southwest of Lincoln, the state capital, making this campground easily accessible for residents of Lincoln and surrounding areas. For those coming from Omaha or other parts of eastern Nebraska, it's a manageable drive, primarily via well-maintained state highways and county roads.

The campground's position within Pawnee State Recreation Area is a significant advantage. Pawnee SRA encompasses Pawnee Lake, a large reservoir that provides extensive opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports. The area around the campground is characterized by flat terrain with open spaces and scattered trees, typical of the Nebraska landscape, offering a sense of openness and tranquility. The proximity to Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area and other camping areas like "Area One Campground" indicates a rich natural environment for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite being in a state recreation area, reviews suggest a generally quiet atmosphere, particularly at night, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Accessibility to the sites is noted as straightforward, which is always a plus for RVers. However, visitors should be aware that being in a natural setting means an increased presence of wildlife, including ticks, as noted in one review, underscoring the importance of being prepared for outdoor conditions.

Area Three Campground, as a primitive site, offers a focused set of services tailored for a more traditional camping experience, with some essential modern conveniences for RVers.

• Primitive Sites: The campground offers primitive sites, which generally means basic campsites suitable for tents or smaller RVs that don't require extensive hookups.

• Electric Hookups: While some sites are primitive, information from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission indicates that camping is available year-round, including campsites with electricity (15, 20, 30, and 50 amp options). This is a crucial amenity for RVs and for those who desire power for their camping equipment.

• Affordable Pricing: A key service highlight is its affordability, noted at $15/night for primitive sites (as of July 2024). State park entry permits (annual or daily) are required in addition to the camping fee.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each site typically comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit, essential for outdoor cooking and gathering around a campfire.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, which are basic, non-flush restroom facilities common in more primitive camping areas. While one review mentioned them being "rather dirty," state parks generally strive for maintenance, and conditions can vary.

• Showers: Although some reviews suggest a lack of showers directly at Area Three, other nearby areas within Pawnee SRA or Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area do offer shower facilities, often "just up the road," providing a solution for those who need them.

• Dump Station: As part of a larger state recreation area, it is highly likely that a dump station for RV waste disposal is available within Pawnee SRA, though perhaps not directly within Area Three Campground itself.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in Nebraska State Park campgrounds, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Area Three Campground offers several distinctive features and highlights that appeal to a specific kind of camper looking for a genuine Nebraska outdoor experience.

• Part of Pawnee State Recreation Area: This is a major highlight. Being within Pawnee SRA means campers have access to the lake's extensive recreational opportunities, including boating (with boat ramps), fishing, and swimming. The lake is known for its walleye, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and largemouth bass.

• Proximity to Outdoor Activities: The campground's location provides close access to popular activities such as disc golf, and a beach area for swimming. There are also opportunities for hiking, biking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding SRA.

• Rustic and Quiet Atmosphere: For those who prefer a less crowded and more natural setting, the "primitive sites" and generally quiet environment (apart from occasional specific incidents mentioned in reviews) make it an ideal escape from urban noise. "Minimal road noise at night" further enhances the peaceful ambiance.

• Affordable Camping: The competitive nightly rate of $15 (as of July 2024, excluding state park entry permit) makes it a very budget-friendly option for extended stays or quick stopovers.

• Big Rig Accommodation (for Electric Sites): While some sites are primitive, the availability of electric hookups likely means there are sites capable of accommodating larger RVs, offering flexibility for different camping setups.

• Natural Terrain: The flat terrain with open spaces and scattered trees offers a classic Midwestern camping backdrop, with opportunities to enjoy the natural flora and fauna.

• Accessible Location: Its proximity to Lincoln ensures that campers can easily stock up on supplies or explore city attractions if desired, offering a balance between nature and convenience.

As Area Three Campground is part of the Pawnee State Recreation Area, direct contact information for "Area Three Campground" specifically might not be available as a separate entity. Instead, inquiries and information usually go through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, or the specific project office for Pawnee SRA.

• Address: Area Three Campground, Pleasant Dale, NE 68423, USA (This points to its location within Pawnee SRA)

• Pawnee SRA Project Office Phone Number: (402) 796-2362

• Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Reservations: For reservations and general inquiries about state parks and campgrounds, you can often use the ReserveAmerica website associated with Nebraska State Parks or call their reservation center at (402) 471-1414.

It is highly recommended to contact the Pawnee SRA Project Office or use the Nebraska State Parks reservation system for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding site availability, current pricing, specific amenities at Area Three, and any necessary state park entry permits. Checking the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website (OutdoorNebraska.org) is also advisable for park rules, regulations, and any alerts.

Area Three Campground is highly suitable for locals in Nebraska, particularly those who embrace a more traditional, primitive, or value-focused camping experience within a natural state recreation area. For Nebraskans looking for an affordable escape that puts them directly into the heart of outdoor activities, this campground delivers. Its location within Pawnee State Recreation Area provides immediate access to Pawnee Lake, offering countless hours of fishing, boating, and swimming, making it perfect for water enthusiasts.

The "primitive sites" and competitive pricing make it an excellent option for campers on a budget or those who prefer a more rustic feel without sacrificing the convenience of electric hookups for RVs. While some reviews note minor issues typical of public campgrounds, the overall consensus points to a quiet and accessible place for a genuinely relaxing break. For families, individuals, or groups who value natural surroundings, outdoor recreation, and a straightforward camping setup, Area Three Campground offers a compelling opportunity to enjoy the beauty of southeastern Nebraska without extensive travel or exorbitant costs. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best experiences are found in the simplicity and natural charm that places like Area Three Campground provide.

Area Three Campground

Pleasant Dale, NE 68423, USA