Fee: Nebraska park entry permit required: $7 daily / $35 annual (Nebraska-plated vehicle); $14 daily / $70 annual (other vehicles). Camping $10-$35 per night by site type. Closed Oct 15-Jan 15.
About this park
Lake Minatare State Recreation Area covers 2,158 acres and is the Panhandle's largest body of water, with three boat ramps, a designated swimming beach, and fish cleaning stations. The Plains Lighthouse, built entirely of native stone between 1937 and 1939 by the Veterans Conservation Corps Camp BR-1, stands 55 feet tall and is open for historic site tours. Visitors boat, fish, swim, picnic, and camp in three campground areas with Electric Plus, Basic, and Primitive sites. Peak season sites can be reserved 180 days ahead, and picnic shelters can be rented. The area is closed to public access from October 15 to January 15 to protect wildlife and migratory birds. Rock Ramp is currently the primary boat launch because of low water.
Lake Minatare State Recreation Area FAQ
Where is Lake Minatare State Recreation Area located?
Lake Minatare State Recreation Area is in Minatare, Nebraska, at 290415 The Point Rd.. GPS coordinates: 41.93276, -103.49323. Get directions.
Is there an entrance fee at Lake Minatare State Recreation Area?
Nebraska park entry permit required: $7 daily / $35 annual (Nebraska-plated vehicle); $14 daily / $70 annual (other vehicles). Camping $10-$35 per night by site type. Closed Oct 15-Jan 15. Fees can change by season, so confirm with the park before you go.
How do I contact Lake Minatare State Recreation Area?
You can call (308) 783-2911. The park office can confirm RV site availability, hookups, length limits and current conditions.
Are there RV campgrounds near Lake Minatare State Recreation Area?
Yes. The closest RV-friendly campgrounds listed on ParkedRV are:
- Summit Ridge Lookout Cabin (135.7 mi, reservable)
- Rocky Mountain National Park Aspenglen Campground (152.1 mi, reservable)
- Rocky Mountain National Park Moraine Park Campground (154.3 mi, reservable)
How current is this information about Lake Minatare State Recreation Area?
This listing was last updated on October 4, 2026. If something is out of date, let us know and we'll fix it.