Did you know that Nebraska is more landlocked than any other state in the country? It’s true, which is why it may seem a bit odd that we have a lighthouse you can visit and even go inside of. This isn’t your usual lighthouse, though – its story is even more interesting.
About 12 miles northeast of Scottsbluff sits Lake Minatare State Recreation Area. The entire park takes up 2,970 acres, 2,158 acres of which are the lake itself.
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The lake was the first federal irrigation reservoir when it was created back in 1915. It revolutionized farming in the panhandle and would usher in a whole new era of modern irrigation. Today, most people recognize the lake as a superior place for outdoor recreation.
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Swimming, boating, fishing, and water skiing are especially popular among the tens of thousands of visitors who make their way to the recreation area every summer.
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But the 55-foot-tall lighthouse is certainly the most recognizable feature of Lake Minatare State Recreation Area. The interesting stone structure can’t technically be called a lighthouse since it has never contained a signal light.
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Rather, it’s a “replica lighthouse” that adds an interesting touch to the area - especially when you consider that it was built by out-of-work veterans during the Great Depression. The Veterans Conservation Corps constructed the lighthouse between 1937 and 1939.
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The building was designed as a shelter house and a lookout tower that would allow visitors to gaze out over the beautiful lake and surrounding landscape. You can still climb the stairs and look out of the big windows today - as long as it’s between the beginning of April and the end of September. The lighthouse is closed the rest of the year.
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After you’ve seen the sights from this charming structure, venture out to the lake for some fun in the sun. Power and non-motorized boating are popular here, and you may even see some people sailing or water skiing. Reserve one of the park shelters - there’s a day-use cabin and an outdoor shelter - and bring the whole extended family along!
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After a long day of playing, you can even stay the night at this underappreciated recreation area. There are numerous spots all around the lake with varying levels of amenities; some are designated Electric or Electric Plus sites while others are non-designated Basic or Primitive areas. You can choose your level of comfort and create the kind of staycation you like best!
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We recommend a visit whenever you could use a quick dose of nature along with a reminder of the unbreakable human spirit. Just don’t plan on visiting between October 15th and January 15th - the recreation area is closed during that time period every year to accommodate protected migrating waterfowl.
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A Nebraska State Park permit is required to enter Lake Minatare State Recreation Area. You can buy yearly or daily passes before you even leave home right here. Passes are also available for purchase at the park office. There are additional fees for camping.
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Have you climbed the Lake Minatare lighthouse? What did you think? Share your experiences in the comments!
For more fascinating history regarding Nebraska’s reservoirs, check out this story about a Lake McConaughy ghost town.
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Address: Minatare, NE 69356, USA
