Area Three Campground

Hello, fellow Nebraskans! Are you seeking a quiet and accessible escape where you can truly kick back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without the usual crowds? Look no further than Area Three Campground, nestled in the serene surroundings of Raymond, NE. This hidden gem, often found within the larger Pawnee State Recreation Area, is renowned for its peaceful ambiance, making it a perfect spot for an overnight stop on a road trip or a tranquil weekend getaway from the bustling city life.

Area Three Campground has earned its reputation as an "awesome" place for those who prioritize peace and quiet. Unlike some of the more heavily trafficked areas of nearby lakes or campgrounds, Area Three consistently offers a sense of seclusion and calm. Even during busy holiday weekends, it has proven to be a reliable option when other campgrounds are full, providing plenty of unclaimed sites and ample room to spread out. This makes it an invaluable resource for spontaneous travelers and those who prefer to avoid the crowds.

Visitors particularly appreciate its "out of the way" feel, which ensures a truly relaxing experience. The simple, direct approach to camping, combined with its quiet setting, creates an ideal environment for unwinding and de-stressing. Whether you're passing through on a long journey or looking for a peaceful local retreat, Area Three Campground is designed to meet your needs, offering a straightforward and serene camping experience that many find superior to busier alternatives. Its consistent availability and tranquil nature make it a go-to spot for those in the know.

Area Three Campground is located in Raymond, NE 68428, USA. This places it within Lancaster County, just a short drive northwest of Lincoln. More specifically, Area Three Campground is situated within the expansive Pawnee State Recreation Area, which is built around Pawnee Lake. This regional park system is a significant recreational hub for Nebraskans, offering a variety of outdoor activities.

The accessibility of Area Three Campground is a key advantage for local Nebraskans and travelers passing through the state via Interstate 80. Its proximity to I-80 makes it an ideal overnight stop for those on longer road trips, as noted by visitors traveling from Denver to Wisconsin. For residents of Lincoln and surrounding communities, it offers a convenient and quick escape to nature without extensive travel. Despite being "out of the way" from the busiest parts of the lake, it remains easily reachable via well-maintained roads within the state recreation area. This blend of easy highway access and a secluded, peaceful setting makes Area Three Campground a practical and attractive option for a wide range of campers seeking convenience and tranquility.

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: Area Three Campground offers designated sites suitable for both tent camping and RVs. While specific hookup details for Area Three itself are not provided in the review, being part of Pawnee State Recreation Area, other sections of the park (like Middle Creek) do offer electrical hookups, so it's advisable to clarify specifics for Area Three when contacting the park.

• Plenty of Unclaimed Sites: A significant "service" from a camper's perspective is the frequent availability of sites. Even during holiday weekends when other popular areas are full, Area Three often has "lots of sites unclaimed, and lots of room," making it a reliable option for spontaneous camping without reservations.

• Self-Registration/Payment: The typical operation for state recreation areas involves a self-registration system where campers pay a fee (e.g., $15 to camp) and display proof of payment. There's also usually a separate fee for non-resident vehicles (e.g., $12 for a non-res vehicle permit), which applies to all state park areas.

• Peaceful Environment: The primary offering of this campground is its quiet and relaxed atmosphere, providing a serene backdrop for camping.

• Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: The most celebrated feature of Area Three Campground is its exceptional quietness. It’s explicitly described as a "quiet campground" and "a really good place to kick back and relax," offering a peaceful escape from noise and crowds.

• Often Available Sites: Unlike other popular campgrounds that fill up quickly, Area Three consistently has "lots of sites unclaimed," even during busy holiday weekends, making it a reliable option for last-minute camping plans.

• Ample Room: Visitors appreciate the "lots of room" available at the campsites, allowing for a comfortable and uncrowded camping experience.

• Out of the Way Location: While part of a larger recreation area, Area Three is specifically noted for being "out of the way, not in the busy part of lake," contributing to its serene ambiance.

• Lakeside Proximity (within Pawnee SRA): Being within Pawnee State Recreation Area implies access to Pawnee Lake for activities like fishing, boating, and enjoying the lakeside environment, even if Area Three itself is slightly removed from the busiest lake spots.

• Suitability for Overnight Stays: Its quiet nature and easy accessibility from I-80 make it perfect for travelers needing a comfortable and restful overnight stop on longer road trips.

• Scenic Surroundings: As part of a state recreation area, it benefits from the natural beauty of the Nebraska landscape, offering pleasant views and opportunities for wildlife observation.

As a campground located within a Nebraska State Recreation Area (Pawnee SRA), Area Three Campground operates under a standard fee structure set by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, rather than offering commercial "promotions" or "special offers." The "offer" here is primarily the consistent availability of quiet, accessible camping at transparent state-regulated rates.

The typical fee structure involves:

• Camping Fees: As noted in a review, a fee of "$15 to camp" is common for basic sites. This rate may vary slightly depending on whether the site has electrical hookups (though the review suggests no outlets on this specific side) or other specific amenities. These fees are usually paid via a self-registration system (iron ranger) on a first-come, first-served basis, as reservations are not typically available for this area.

• Park Entry Permit: All vehicles entering a Nebraska State Recreation Area are generally required to have a park entry permit. This can be purchased as an annual pass (offering significant savings for frequent visitors to any Nebraska State Park or Recreation Area) or as a daily pass (e.g., "$12 for the non-res vehicle" for non-residents, though resident rates apply to locals).

The "special offer" from the perspective of a local user or frequent traveler is the reliable availability and peaceful atmosphere, particularly when other, more popular spots are full. This consistency and tranquility are highly valued.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping rates, park entry permits, and any specific operational details (such as seasonal changes or potential limited hookups), it is always best to consult the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website (OutdoorNebraska.gov) or contact them directly.

Area Three Campground is part of the larger Pawnee State Recreation Area, which is managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. While there might not be a direct phone number specific to "Area Three Campground" itself, you can generally obtain information through the main office for Pawnee State Recreation Area or the broader commission.

Address: Raymond, NE 68428, USA (This general address places it within the Pawnee State Recreation Area.)

Phone: To inquire about Area Three Campground or Pawnee State Recreation Area, locals can typically contact the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission directly or look for a specific park office number for Pawnee SRA. A common number for Pawnee State Recreation Area for inquiries about conditions and availability is generally:

(402) 796-2362 (This number is often associated with the Pawnee State Recreation Area main office.)

Alternatively, for general inquiries about Nebraska State Parks and Recreation Areas, you can contact the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission headquarters at (402) 471-1414.

Checking the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website (OutdoorNebraska.gov) for "Pawnee Lake" or "Pawnee State Recreation Area" is also an excellent resource for detailed information on facilities, rules, and any current alerts before your visit.

For Nebraskans, Area Three Campground in Raymond offers a distinctly suitable and highly appealing option for outdoor recreation, particularly for those prioritizing peace, quiet, and reliable access.

Its primary suitability for locals lies in its unique position within the popular Pawnee State Recreation Area: it’s "out of the way, not in the busy part of the lake," making it a consistently quiet retreat. This is a significant advantage for Nebraskans looking to genuinely relax and unwind without the crowds often found at more bustling recreational spots, even during peak seasons. The consistent availability of sites, even on holiday weekends when other campgrounds are full, makes it an invaluable resource for spontaneous getaways – a real bonus for those who don't always plan far in advance.

The accessibility of Area Three Campground, being a short drive from Lincoln and conveniently located near I-80, further enhances its appeal for local residents. It allows for quick and easy escapes to nature, minimizing travel time and maximizing relaxation. This makes it ideal for a last-minute overnight stay, a peaceful weekend, or simply a spot to "kick back and relax" after a busy week.

Furthermore, as part of Pawnee State Recreation Area, campers at Area Three can still benefit from the broader recreational opportunities that the area offers, such as fishing and boating on Pawnee Lake, even if they choose a more secluded camping spot. This blend of serene camping with access to popular lake activities provides the best of both worlds.

In essence, Area Three Campground is a cherished local secret that delivers exactly what many Nebraskans seek: a tranquil, easily accessible, and often available camping experience that allows them to truly connect with the natural beauty of their state without the usual hustle and bustle. For your next peaceful outdoor escape, Area Three Campground should be at the top of your list.