Area Five Campground

For many Nebraskans, the ideal camping trip isn't about luxury resorts or endless amenities. It's about getting back to basics, connecting with nature, and creating lasting memories by a serene lake. If this resonates with your outdoor spirit, then Area Five Campground at Bluestem Lake, located near Martell, Nebraska, is a destination that truly delivers. As part of the beautiful Bluestem State Recreation Area, this campground offers a straightforward, budget-friendly, and highly rewarding experience for families and individuals looking to enjoy the great outdoors in our beloved Cornhusker State.

Area Five Campground embodies a more traditional approach to camping. While it doesn't offer electrical hookups at every site, it provides the essential ingredients for a memorable trip: access to a picturesque lake, a peaceful environment, and the freedom to enjoy classic camping activities. This focus on fundamental outdoor recreation makes it particularly appealing to those who prefer to be self-sufficient and find joy in the simplicity of nature. For locals, it represents an accessible and authentic escape from the daily grind, offering a chance to unwind and create cherished family moments, like a child catching their first fish.

Nebraska's State Recreation Areas are treasured resources, providing diverse opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Bluestem Lake, with its clear waters and inviting shoreline, is a prime example. Whether you're an avid angler, enjoy paddling a kayak, or simply want to cool off with a swim on a warm summer day, the lake is the star attraction. Area Five Campground puts you right at the heart of this aquatic playground, offering convenient access to all the fun. As one happy camper noted, despite the lack of electrical hookups, it's a "very beautiful, family-friendly place to fish, camp and swim," where the joy of "everlasting memories" far outweighs any minor inconveniences.

In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the specifics of Area Five Campground. We'll detail its precise location and accessibility, outline the services it provides (and what to expect in a primitive setting), highlight its key features, and provide all necessary contact information. Ultimately, we will conclude by emphasizing why this campground is perfectly suited for Nebraskans seeking an affordable, authentic, and memorable lakeside camping experience in their home state.

Location and Accessibility

Area Five Campground is nestled within the scenic Bluestem State Recreation Area, with its official address listed as Martell, NE 68404, USA. This location places it southwest of Lincoln, Nebraska's capital city, making it a highly accessible and convenient camping destination for residents throughout southeastern Nebraska and beyond.

Reaching Area Five Campground is relatively straightforward via well-maintained state and county roads. From Lincoln, the drive is a manageable distance, allowing for easy weekend trips without extensive travel time. This proximity to a major urban center is a significant advantage, meaning campers can quickly reach the campground while still enjoying the tranquility of a rural, lakeside setting. Should you need to resupply, access services, or explore additional attractions, Lincoln is just a short drive away.

The Bluestem State Recreation Area is known for its clear signage, guiding visitors efficiently to its various sections, including Area Five. While the specific entry to Area Five is often accessed directly from West Martell Road, which loops around the area, visitors should be aware that once off the main road, navigating to individual campsites with a larger rig might require careful attention. However, the overall accessibility to the recreation area itself is excellent, ensuring a smooth journey for most RVs and vehicles. The natural, unpaved nature of some internal roads contributes to the primitive charm of the campground. This combination of being close to urban amenities yet feeling miles away in a natural setting makes Area Five Campground an ideal and practical choice for Nebraskans.

Services Offered

• Non-Powered Campsites: Area Five Campground primarily offers non-powered campsites. This means that individual sites do not come with electrical hookups. Campers with RVs or travel trailers should be prepared to use their own generators for power, or enjoy a truly "unplugged" experience.
• Drinking Water Access: Potable drinking water is available within the campground area at designated locations, allowing campers to refill their containers.
• Primitive Restrooms: Vault toilets are provided for public use. These are basic restroom facilities that align with the primitive camping experience.
• Dump and Fill Station: A dump and fill station is available within Bluestem State Recreation Area for RVers to properly dispose of their wastewater and fill up their fresh water tanks, essential for longer stays without direct hookups.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: All campsites at Bluestem State Recreation Area, including Area Five, are typically offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers register their nightly fees in a self-service "Iron Ranger" box, accepting cash or checks.
• Boat Ramps: Bluestem State Recreation Area features multiple boat ramps, including convenient access to the lake for various types of watercraft. It's always advisable to check current lake levels as they can impact boat launching, particularly for larger motorized vessels.

Features / Highlights

• Bluestem Lake: The centerpiece of the campground is the beautiful 325-acre Bluestem Lake. It's a popular spot for fishing, boating (all types allowed), and swimming at the designated beach. The lake is stocked with various fish species including largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, walleye, and crappies.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Reviews consistently highlight Area Five as a "very beautiful, family-friendly place," ideal for creating cherished memories, such as a child catching their first fish.
• Affordable Camping: With a reported price of around "$21" (as per a customer review for a camping night, excluding park entry), Area Five Campground offers a highly economical option for camping, making it accessible for budget-conscious families and travelers.
• Generator Use Permitted: For RVers who desire power, the option to use a generator is available, providing flexibility while maintaining the primitive nature of the sites.
• Serene and Peaceful Environment: The non-powered nature of the sites contributes to a quieter atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a true escape from noise and light pollution. Minimal artificial light allows for excellent stargazing on clear nights.
• Diverse Recreational Activities: Beyond the lake, Bluestem State Recreation Area offers other activities such as an archery range, picnicking areas, and a playground, ensuring there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
• Scenic Beauty: The campground is set amidst the natural beauty of the Nebraska landscape, offering picturesque views of the lake and surrounding natural areas, ideal for walking and enjoying the outdoors.

Contact Information

Address: Martell, NE 68404, USA (Part of Bluestem State Recreation Area)

Phone: (402) 796-2362 (General contact for Bluestem State Recreation Area, managed by Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)

Mobile Phone: +1 402-796-2362

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Nebraskans, Area Five Campground at Bluestem Lake is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a quintessential Nebraska outdoor experience. Its suitability for local residents stems from its unique combination of affordability, family-friendliness, and a focus on authentic, back-to-nature recreation.

Firstly, the price point of Area Five Campground is a significant draw. In a state where value is appreciated, the ability to create "everlasting memories" for an economical sum, as noted by a satisfied customer, makes it highly accessible for frequent family outings or spontaneous weekend trips. This affordability allows more Nebraskans to enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation without a hefty financial commitment.

Its status as a non-powered campground also appeals to a specific segment of the local camping community – those who are well-equipped with generators or who simply prefer the simpler, more traditional style of camping. This fosters a quieter, more intimate atmosphere, providing a genuine escape from the hum of modern life. For many Nebraskans, the allure of primitive camping lies in its ability to connect them more directly with the natural world, emphasizing skills and self-reliance that are part of our state's heritage.

Moreover, the family-friendly nature of Bluestem Lake and its surrounding recreation area makes Area Five an ideal spot for creating treasured moments with loved ones. The opportunity for children to catch their first fish, swim in the lake, or simply explore the natural environment in a safe setting is invaluable. These are the kinds of experiences that build character and create lifelong bonds, resonating deeply with the family values prevalent in Nebraska communities. The ease of access for activities like fishing, swimming, and boating directly from the campground makes it incredibly convenient for families to maximize their time enjoying the lake.

In conclusion, Area Five Campground at Bluestem Lake is perfectly suited for Nebraskans seeking an authentic, affordable, and family-oriented camping adventure. It's a place where the focus is on the beauty of the lake, the joy of simple outdoor activities, and the creation of lasting memories, all within the welcoming and familiar landscape of our home state.