Branched Oak Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
Do you feel the winds of adventure calling your name? Why not pack up your RV and head out for a visit to Branched Oak Lake? It's a fantastic place for a holiday stay.
Branched Oak Lake is located just outside the small town of Malcolm, NE. The water is famous for its crystal blue hue and bears the distinction of being the biggest of all of the Salt Valley Lakes at 1800 acres in total. Branched Oak Lake also offers 5,595 acres of stunning, naturally landscaped grounds for families to explore at their leisure. Nestled within a short drive of Lincoln, NE, families have the opportunity to enjoy the peace and tranquility of country living coupled with the proximity of the attractions of the big city.
A property that is easily accessed by 14 different state parks and recreational areas, families who stop by Branched Oak Lake for a visit will not want for fun things to do whether their trip takes place in spring, winter, summer, or fall. Found on the grounds are seven primitive-style campgrounds as well as several camping facilities that offer RV camping with full power hookups and added amenities for extra comfort. With over 338 campsites to choose from, you will be sure to find your perfect spot.
Branched Oak Lake is home to many different attractions, including biking, horseback riding, horseshoes, archery, fishing, and more. Two beautiful swimming areas are popular haunts during the summer months. The property is also a favorite site for national dog trials, and as such, is extremely dog-friendly.
For an RV vacation you'll not soon forget, bring your family to visit Branched Oak Lake. It's a fun spot to explore.
RV Rentals in Branched Oak Lake
Transportation
Driving
The route to Branched Oak Lake is direct and follows along highways of two-lane construction. Each of the roads is kept in good condition and is free from snow during the winter months. Construction occurs very infrequently and does not typically cause any delays. From time to time, wildlife will find its way onto the highways, so motorists are advised to remain alert for their presence to prevent an accident from occurring.
Parking
Parking is found at several lots throughout the Branched Oak Lake property as well as at the campgrounds.
Public Transportation
There is currently no public transportation available to Branched Oak Lake.
Campgrounds and parking in Branched Oak Lake
Campsites in Branched Oak Lake
Reservations camping
Middle Oak Creek Campground
Middle Oak Creek Campground offers year-round camping by reservation with 198 sits available. The property can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 55 feet in total length. There are eight sites with full hookups and 135 with power only. Some of the sites are reserved for primitive style camping conditions.
Dogs are permitted so long as they remain leashed.
Among the on-site amenities provided here include picnic tables, barbecues, drinking water, toilets, showers, a waste disposal station, a playground, and a boat launch.
A state park permit is required to enter this recreational area as well as for an RV or tent stay.
South Shore Campground
South Shore Campground offers sites for RV and tent camping year-round by reservation. The campsites are paved with 11 of them offering full hookups and the rest reserved for tent camping or electric-only RV stays. Dogs may join their owners on their camping adventure but are required to be kept on a leash at all times.
The on-site amenities include two buildings with coin-operated showers, two sewage disposal stations, a playground, and a picnic shelter for rent.
Camping at this facility requires the purchase of a state park permit.
Seasonal activities in Branched Oak Lake
In-Season
Boating
Water sports are a popular attraction at Branched Oak Lake. With nine boat launches and 49 different docks to choose from as well as a marina, you'll have plenty of choice of locations you can use to get your boat out on the water. Paddle your canoe or kayak from the banks of the river or launch out directly from one of the docks or ramps in your powerboat. Either way, you're bound to have a great time.
The marina has fuel available for purchase. Eager to get onto the water but don't own a boat of your own? Not a problem. Near to the marina are several shops where you can rent a boat to take out for the day.
Swimming
Branched Oak Lake has two beautiful swimming beaches where families can enjoy taking a refreshing dip on a hot summer's day. The waters are renowned for their pristine clarity and warmth, making them an excellent spot to practice your best doggy paddle or perfect a new stroke. Feel like just taking it easy during your day at the beach? You can float your cares away on an inner tube, drinking in the sun's rays.
Lifeguard service is not provided, so take care to only swim when the weather conditions are favorable.
Picnicking
Picnicking is a much-beloved activity at Branched Oak Lake. The surrounding recreational areas boast of 41 picnic shelters, 625 picnic tables, and 588 grills. You won't want for the perfect place to enjoy a snack or meal from home with so many places provided on-site for your enjoyment!
Fancy a picnic spot with a lake view? Why not lay out a blanket in the sand and spread out your feast for everyone to dig into?
Feel free to bring along your best canine pal, but please keep them on a leash.
Off-Season
Hiking
There are many different hiking trails found throughout the grounds of Branched Oak Lake, making it the ideal spot for people who love to explore new and interesting places on foot. You will find the terrain is quite diverse, offering everything from picture-perfect lake views to rich forested areas and gently rolling hills and more. To be sure you don't injure yourself, make sure you wear footwear that is appropriate for strenuous hiking conditions.
Many of the trails found on the premises are also well-suited to biking and horseback riding.
Photography
With so much beauty surrounding you, you won't want to miss an opportunity to snap a few photos of your visit to Branched Oak Lake. The forested areas are home to many different species of wildlife that you will discover on your journey. The terrain provides a magnificent backdrop whether you plan to capture a few shots by the lake or against the dense cover of tree growth.
Branched Oak Lake is photo-worthy year-round, but it is particularly stunning in the fall and winter months. Consider stopping by in both seasons; in the fall, to photograph the incredible autumn leaves, and in the winter, for that magical winter wonderland feeling.
Fishing
Branched Oak Lake is a haven for those who enjoy fishing. There are many different varieties of fish which can be found here. Among the most popular species include blue catfish, bluegill, common carp, channel catfish, crappie, flathead catfish, freshwater drum, largemouth bass, striped bass, walleye, white perch, and wiper.
Fish cleaning stations are provided throughout the premises. Here you can fillet your haul to take back to your campground for supper. Be sure to check with your camping facility to see if it is permitted to grill fish on the provided barbecues or if you must cook them in your RV.
A fishing license is required for any angling in Nebraska waters.
