Area Three Campground

Hello, Nebraska adventurers and road trippers! Are you looking for a peaceful, no-frills escape into nature right here in our beloved Cornhusker State? Look no further than Area Three Campground in Raymond, NE. This hidden gem, nestled within the larger Branched Oak State Recreation Area, offers a refreshing alternative to bustling, amenity-heavy campgrounds, providing a genuine opportunity to relax and connect with Nebraska's serene landscapes. For those who appreciate quiet evenings under the stars and straightforward camping, Area Three is rapidly becoming a go-to spot.

Many of us in Nebraska cherish our state's open spaces and the tranquility they offer. Area Three Campground perfectly embodies this spirit, standing out as a calm oasis even during busy holiday weekends. As one satisfied camper noted, "I had no reservation but there were lots of sites unclaimed, and lots of room... Area Three was perfect for my overnight travel needs." This speaks volumes about its ability to provide a peaceful retreat when other nearby campgrounds might be bustling. It's the ideal spot for "a really good place kick back and relax," away from the more crowded sections of the lake. This article will guide you through what makes Area Three Campground a prime choice for Nebraska locals, covering its location, the services it offers, and the simple yet profound features that make it such a beloved spot for a genuine outdoor experience.

Area Three Campground is located in Raymond, NE 68428, USA. It's important for Nebraska locals to note that Area Three is part of the expansive Branched Oak State Recreation Area, which is the largest lake in eastern Nebraska. This location offers a fantastic balance of accessibility from major routes and a sense of being "out of the way" from the more crowded parts of the lake.

For those traveling across the state or just looking for a convenient local getaway, Area Three's proximity to I-80 is a significant advantage. As one traveler from Denver heading to Wisconsin pointed out, it's an excellent "overnight travel needs" stop. This makes it particularly appealing for road trippers passing through Nebraska who seek a quiet, restful night's sleep without venturing far off the main highway. The campground is situated within an approximately 19-minute drive from Lincoln and about 53 minutes from Omaha, making it easily reachable for a quick weekend escape from these larger metropolitan areas. While the exact driving distance from Raymond to the campground might vary slightly within Branched Oak SRA, its overall location within this popular recreation area means it's well-signposted and generally easy to find once you're in the vicinity. The setting on the peninsula of Branched Oak Lake also provides close access to various lake activities, while maintaining a sense of seclusion from the busier sections, ensuring a truly relaxing experience. This blend of convenient access and tranquil setting makes Area Three Campground a practical and appealing choice for Nebraska residents.

• Primitive Camping: Area Three Campground primarily offers primitive camping sites, meaning no utilities (electric, water, sewer) are available directly at the sites. This caters to campers who prefer a more traditional, rustic experience.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets for restroom facilities. It's good practice for campers to come prepared with their own supplies, as indicated by experiences at similar primitive sites.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meals and gathering.
• Burn Pits/Fire Rings: Sites usually include a fire pit or ring, allowing for campfires and outdoor cooking (check for any current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Access to Branched Oak Lake: Campers have close access to Branched Oak Lake, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the water.
• Nearby Showers: While Area Three itself is primitive, showers are available "just up the road" at other modern campgrounds within Branched Oak State Recreation Area (e.g., Middle Oak Creek and South Shore campgrounds), providing a convenient option for a refresh.
• Dump Stations: Branched Oak SRA generally offers dump stations within the recreation area, which is convenient for RVers even if they are staying at a primitive site.

• Quiet and Relaxed Atmosphere: A key highlight is its tranquil environment. Reviewers consistently praise it as a "quiet campground" and "a really good place kick back and relax," ideal for those seeking serenity.
• "Out of the Way" Location: Situated away from the "busy part of lake," it offers a more secluded and less crowded camping experience, even during peak times like holiday weekends.
• Ample Availability: Even without a reservation, campers have found "lots of sites unclaimed, and lots of room," making it a reliable option for spontaneous trips, especially when other popular spots are full.
• Affordable Pricing: With a cost of $15 to camp (plus a non-resident vehicle fee if applicable), it offers a budget-friendly option for an overnight stay or a simple camping trip.
• Close Lake Access: Despite being primitive, sites are often "a few hundred yards from the lake," providing easy access for walks, fishing, or enjoying the shoreline. Some sites are even right on the water on the east end.
• Beautiful Scenery: Described as featuring "flat terrain with open spaces and scattered trees," and providing opportunities for "a great morning walk" by the lake.
• Proximity to Outdoor Activities: Offers close access to activities within Branched Oak State Recreation Area, including disc golf and a nice beach. The broader SRA features boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, and more.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: As part of a state recreation area, it provides opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Address: Raymond, NE 68428, USA

As Area Three Campground is part of the larger Branched Oak State Recreation Area, specific direct contact information solely for Area Three is generally not provided separately. For reservations, general inquiries, or information regarding Nebraska State Park permits (which are required for entry into state recreation areas like Branched Oak SRA), it is best to contact the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission or the Branched Oak State Recreation Area office directly. While individual phone numbers for Area Three Campground are not publicly listed, the main office for Branched Oak State Recreation Area can be reached at (402) 783-3400. This is the most reliable way for Nebraska locals to get current information on fees, availability, and any specific regulations for Area Three. Remember, a State Park Permit is required for entry to Branched Oak Lake State Recreation Area.

For Nebraska locals, Area Three Campground in Raymond is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a testament to the understated beauty and peaceful escapes available right within our own state. Its appeal lies precisely in its simplicity and tranquility, offering a genuine primitive camping experience that contrasts with the often-overcrowded and amenity-rich alternatives. As one local noted, it's "Out of the way, not in the busy part of lake. A really good place kick back and relax." This resonates deeply with anyone seeking true relaxation and a break from the daily grind without having to travel too far from home.

The fact that even during a busy holiday weekend, "lots of sites unclaimed, and lots of room" were available speaks volumes about its capacity to provide a serene spot when other popular campgrounds like Middle Creek and South Shore are completely full. This reliability makes it a fantastic last-minute option for a spontaneous escape. For Nebraskans who appreciate value, the reasonable cost of $15 to camp (plus any necessary state park permit fees) makes it an economical choice for an overnight or multi-night stay.

Furthermore, its location within the expansive Branched Oak State Recreation Area means that while Area Three itself offers a rustic experience, access to essential amenities like showers is "just up the road" at other facilities within the SRA. This blend of primitive charm with convenient access to modern comforts, coupled with opportunities for disc golf, walking, and lake activities, makes it incredibly versatile. Whether you're a seasoned camper looking for quiet solitude, a family seeking a simple nature experience, or a road tripper needing a peaceful overnight stop, Area Three Campground delivers. It's a true Nebraska gem that many will want to "remember this quiet campground for my next road trip" or local getaway, offering the perfect balance of accessibility and genuine tranquility that many of us are searching for.

Area Three Campground

Raymond, NE 68428, USA