Branched Oak Sra
00 review12000 West Branched Oak Rd., Raymond, Nebraska, 68428-9728, United States
Branched Oak Sra
$35.00 - $70.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A Nebraska State Park Permit is required to enter the park. Fees for Nebraska licensed vehicles are $35 for an annual permit, $17.50 for a duplicate annual permit, and $7 daily. Non-Nebraska licensed vehicles are charged $70 for an annual permit, $35 for a duplicate, and $14 daily.
About this campground
Escape to Nebraska's crown jewel of outdoor recreation at Branched Oak State Recreation Area, where 5,595 acres of rolling prairie meet 1,800 acres of sparkling water. As the largest of the Salt Valley Lakes near Lincoln, this expansive playground beckons water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Modern comforts await with well-maintained restrooms, hot showers, and convenient dump stations, while those seeking a more rustic experience can embrace the solitude of primitive camping beneath star-filled skies.
Branched Oak SRA offers a mix of camping styles, including modern RV camping, primitive camping, tent sites, and equestrian camping. Group camping options are also available.
Historical SignificanceThe stories of this land await discovery by curious visitors exploring its shores and trails.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Nebraska's dramatic seasonal tapestry at Branched Oak, where each season paints the landscape in distinctive hues. Spring arrives with gentle breezes and wildflower blooms, while autumn wraps the shoreline in golden warmth. Summer brings sun-soaked days perfect for water adventures, though winter's quiet beauty offers its own stark appeal. Seasoned campers know that week 17 emerges as the golden window for outdoor enthusiasts, delivering crystalline skies, comfortable temperatures, and virtually rain-free days that make every moment outdoors a pleasure.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a water lover's paradise where pristine swimming beaches invite refreshing dips and endless shoreline beckons exploration. As visitor Jaci LaMere enthusiastically shares, the clean swimming beaches and crystal-clear water create an irresistible aquatic playground. With vast expanses of open water perfect for boating adventures and meandering nature trails that wind through diverse habitats, every visit reveals new treasures. Whether you're cutting through morning mist on a kayak or watching sunset paint the water in brilliant hues from a lakeside trail, Branched Oak's natural splendor never fails to captivate.
Geological RegionNestled within Nebraska's remarkable Salt Valley Lakes system near Lincoln, Branched Oak sprawls across an impressive 5,595-acre landscape where ancient prairie meets modern reservoir. This geological wonder features 1,800 acres of life-giving water, creating a diverse ecosystem where rolling grasslands transition seamlessly into aquatic habitats, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the heart of America's Great Plains.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap-accessible amenities such as mounting blocks and comfort stations are available, but detailed accessibility feedback is limited.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary, and many sites are paved and relatively level. South Shore and Middle Oak Creek campgrounds include options like large grassy spaces for tents and RV pads with electricity.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary significantly depending on the area. Some reviewers noted a lack of privacy between sites in RV areas, while primitive spots offered more seclusion. 'Neighbors are right on top of you,' said one RV camper.
Total Campsites338 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTry Middle Oak Creek for waterfront sites and Southshore Campground for full hookups.
Best Campsites"Had a great campsite on the water in Middle Oak Creek campground." - Jerry Adams. Popular waterfront sites are available but fill quickly.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
4:30 PM
Stay Limit
Camping reservations may be made a minimum of three days in advance of arrival and a maximum of 180 days in advance.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNine public use areas, offering modern and primitive camping options. Specific loops or sections are not detailed.
Open and Closed SeasonOffice hours are Memorial Day to Labor Day, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. During the rest of the year, hours remain the same.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at OutdoorNebraska.org.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available, but these tend to fill up during peak months.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $25 fee. Remaining amounts refunded depend on the unused portion of the reservation.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Branched Oak SRA is a hub of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, biking, swimming, and equestrian activities. The lake serves as a focal point for water sports, with separate areas for power boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include several miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. The trails are shared with bikers and horse riders.Fishing
Fishing is described as a popular activity, with species such as crappie, walleye, and bass commonly caught. 'The fishing is great for crappie, walleye, and bass, but it's more enjoyable when traffic is low,' one user noted.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in designated beach areas. Reviewers frequently praised the clean, family-friendly beaches. 'Clean swimming beaches, clean water,' observed one reviewer.Biking
Bike trails are available and shared with hikers and equestrian users. Some trails are described as more suitable for casual riders due to flat terrain.Boating
Boating is one of the standout activities, with facilities for power boats, kayaks, and jet skis. However, high boating traffic on weekends causes rough waters, as noted by some users.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include bird watching and observing other native species. Migratory birds are commonly seen in the area.Beach activities
Activities like sunbathing and beachcombing are available on the sandy beaches.Winter Activities
Snow-related activities like snowshoeing and skiing were not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized activities like kayaking and paddleboarding are supported.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings are available for use. No specific restrictions on campfires mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Reviews indicate quiet hours are not enforced effectively.
Hazards
General hazards"Playground is missing rubber sections and is extremely dangerous for small children," per user Heather Annin. Bathrooms are noted as gross and non-flushing.
Active alertsNo current alerts mentioned, but user reviews recommend avoiding crowded weekends to reduce noise disturbances.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Within 10 miles: Medical Clinic, Town; Greater than 10 miles: Hospital
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months (exact months not provided)
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, and trash pickup is scheduled early in the morning.
Proximity to water featuresLakefront access offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsPoor road conditions, limited full hookup sites, lack of security at night, noisy neighbors, and poorly maintained restrooms.
HostCamp hosts are noted as friendly and helpful. "Host was awesome and had decent shower facilities." - Travis O'Brien.
Campground Map
12000 West Branched Oak Rd., Raymond, Nebraska, 68428-9728, United States
Driving directionsGoing west on I-80: Take the North 27th street exit, at the stop sign turn right, go 1/2 mile to Arbor Rd., turn left go 1 mile to North 14th, turn right on North 14th, go to yellow flashing light which is Raymond Rd., Turn left, stay on Raymond Rd. for 8 miles, there will be a curve in the road. If you turn right you will go to areas 14,13,12,11,10 and 9 if you stay on Raymond Rd. you will go to areas 1 (Southshore Campground) ,2,3,4 (Middle Oak Creek Campground), 5,6,7 and 8. Going east on I-80: From I-80 take the Seward/HWY 15 exit, which is North to Seward. At the stop light in Seward turn right which will be HWY 34, stay on this HWY for 12 miles you will see a sign that says Branched Oak. There is only one way to turn, which is north and puts you on NW 112th. It takes you through the town of Malcolm. Stay on this road for 5 miles and you are at the lake. If you turn right you will go to areas 14,13,12,11,10 and 9. If you turn left you will go to Areas 1(Southshore Campground),2,3,4 (Middle Oak Creek Campground),5,6,7 and 8. Going South on HWY 79: At the yellow flashing turn right on Raymond Rd, go 4 miles and same as above. Going North on HWY 77: stay on 10th St., in Lincoln, take HWY 34 West. Stay on Hwy 34 until you come to the HWY 79 exit, turn right-on HWY 79 stay on this for 5 miles. You will come to a yellow flashing light turn left on Raymond Rd. for 4 miles and at the curve, same as above.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but some reviews note that the roads within the park are poorly maintained, with holes and ruts. Seasonal closures are not mentioned explicitly.Nearby places
Lincoln, approximately 20 miles
Malcolm, approximately 2.5 miles
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: Grocery Store, ATM/Cash Machine, Seasonal Concessions
Greater than 10 miles: Mall, Car Rentals
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Branched Oak Sra has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Branched Oak SRA as a versatile and family-friendly destination with ample activities. Complaints often focus on maintenance issues, such as aging restroom facilities and occasional rowdy behavior by other campers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many users praised the availability of diverse activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Clean beaches, beautiful views, and well-maintained grassy sites were also commonly highlighted.
Common Concerns
Negative reviews frequently cite maintenance issues, including dirty or outdated shower facilities and bathrooms. Poor cell service and noisy nighttime campers were also noted.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray due to plentiful insects. For quieter camping, consider primitive sites. Avoid busy weekends if possible to reduce noise and crowding.
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are highly popular but crowded, while fall offers a quieter experience. Maintenance issues with the bathrooms and facilities are consistent complaints across seasons.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful place for camping 🏕 and swimming with family.' - Karen Happiness
2. 'It’s a hidden gem!' - April
3. 'Nice spots to fish and good little walking trails.' - Briana DeSanctis
4. 'Showers...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews include mentions of Middle Oak Creek and South Shore campgrounds. 'Great for fishing and camping,' noted one user. Site #83 was described as fantastic, with clean surroundings...
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Accessibility Features
No detailed accessibility reviews were provided except general mentions of handicap-accessible amenities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground appeared to be pet-friendly, though specific reviews on this aspect were limited.
Last updated August 10, 2025