Lake View East Campground

For those of us who appreciate the vast skies and tranquil waters that define Nebraska's natural beauty, finding the perfect campground for a getaway is paramount. Lake View East Campground, nestled within the expansive Lake Minatare State Recreation Area near Minatare, offers precisely that – a clean, well-maintained, and incredibly scenic spot to immerse ourselves in the great outdoors. As Nebraskans, we know the value of a quiet retreat where we can relax, fish, boat, or simply enjoy the stunning views. This campground, known for its pristine conditions and convenient access to Lake Minatare, stands as a testament to the excellent outdoor opportunities available right here in our own backyard. It's an ideal destination for families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature in a comfortable setting.

Lake View East Campground is strategically located within the Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, with its address simply listed as Minatare, NE 69356, USA. This places it directly on the eastern shores of Lake Minatare, the largest body of water in the Nebraska Panhandle. Accessibility to the campground is straightforward, catering to visitors from across the state and beyond. To reach the area from Scottsbluff, you would typically take Highway 71 north to Lake Minatare Road, then eight miles east to a T-intersection with Stonegate Road, followed by a mile north on Stonegate. The Lake View entrance is then to your right immediately after crossing a canal bridge, with the park office a short half-mile further. If approaching from Minatare and Highway 26, you'd turn north on Stonegate Road from the northeast corner of Minatare and continue nine miles to the Lake View entrance. The clear signage and well-maintained access roads ensure a smooth and pleasant journey to your camping destination. This excellent accessibility allows for quick and easy weekend trips, making the most of your time enjoying the lake and its surroundings.

Lake View East Campground, as part of the broader Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, offers a solid range of services designed for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

• Electric Plus Sites:

  Lake View Campground features 52 Electric Plus sites, providing 20, 30, and 50-amp electrical hookups. Half of these sites are available for reservation up to one year in advance, offering planning flexibility.

• Modern Restrooms and Showers:

  Clean shower facilities and flush toilets are conveniently available at both the east and west portions of the Lake View Campground, ensuring that campers have access to modern conveniences.

• Water Access:

  Water spigots are provided throughout the campground, allowing easy access to fresh water for drinking and other needs.

• Laundry Facilities:

  For longer stays or after a day of outdoor activities, a laundry facility is located near the park office, offering a practical amenity.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills:

  Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, perfect for enjoying outdoor meals and traditional campfires.

• RV Dump and Fill Station:

  An RV dump and fill station is available off Stonegate Road on the western side of Lake Minatare SRA, making it convenient for RV users.

• Boat Ramps:

  Multiple boat ramps with courtesy docks are located around Lake Minatare, ensuring easy access for all types of watercraft.

• Fish Cleaning Stations:

  For the avid angler, fish cleaning stations are available at various locations within the recreation area, including Lake View, West Wind, and Butte View.

Lake View East Campground, and the larger Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, boasts several features and highlights that make it a truly appealing destination for Nebraskans.

• Pristine and Well-Maintained Camping Area:

  Visitors consistently praise the "very clean and well maintained" camping area, contributing to a pleasant and enjoyable stay.

• Stunning Lake and Mountain Views:

  The campground offers "a BEAUTIFUL view of the lake and mountains," providing a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor adventure and enhancing the overall experience.

• Short Hike to the Lake and Sand Beach:

  A "short hike to the lake" means easy access for swimming, relaxing, or enjoying the sand beach, especially when water levels are lower.

• Nebraska's Only Lighthouse:

  A unique and iconic feature of the Lake Minatare area is the 55-foot stone lighthouse, built in the 1930s. It serves as both a historical landmark and an observation tower, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. It's a must-visit attraction.

• Excellent Fishing and Boating Opportunities:

  Lake Minatare is a large reservoir (2,180 acres) known for its superb fishing (walleye, channel catfish, white bass, yellow perch) and ample space for power boating, water skiing, jet skiing, and sailing.

• Proximity to Historic Sites:

  The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring other significant Nebraska landmarks such as Chimney Rock National Historic Site and Scotts Bluff National Monument, both steeped in Oregon Trail history.

• Spacious Campsites:

  The sites are noted for being spacious, offering campers a sense of privacy and room to spread out, which is highly valued for both tent and RV campers.

• Wildlife Viewing and Bird Watching:

  As part of the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge (closed seasonally for migratory birds), the area provides opportunities for observing diverse wildlife and bird species.

For inquiries or to plan your visit to Lake View East Campground, please use the following contact information. As it's part of the Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, the park office handles all general inquiries.

Address: Minatare, NE 69356, USA

Park Office Phone: (308) 783-2911

Reservation Line: 1-844-637-2757 (for reserving Electric Plus sites)

Lake View East Campground is truly an ideal destination for us Nebraskans looking to embrace the state's natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Its location on the vast Lake Minatare provides unparalleled access to water sports and some of the best fishing in the Panhandle, making it perfect for weekend warriors and seasoned anglers alike. The fact that it offers modern amenities like electric hookups, clean showers, and even laundry facilities means you can enjoy the rustic charm of camping without sacrificing essential comforts. We value places that are well-maintained and offer a peaceful environment, and Lake View East consistently delivers on that front. The presence of Nebraska's unique lighthouse adds a touch of local history and a fantastic viewpoint right within the park. While awareness regarding responsible pet ownership and proper beach usage (avoiding driving on the beach) is encouraged for the preservation of this beautiful area, these small considerations only enhance the experience for everyone. For any Nebraskan seeking a refreshing, accessible, and thoroughly enjoyable camping adventure with stunning views and plenty of activities, Lake View East Campground is a local treasure that promises memorable moments under our vast Nebraska skies.