Those looking for shady campsites and sandy beaches will enjoy a visit to Bridgeport State Recreation Area, a relatively small but popular spot for boating, camping and picnicking just west of Bridgeport. It encompasses about 200 acres, including 78 acres of water in five sandpit lakes.
Many years ago, the Commission planted numerous trees and shrubs, which have now matured to provide ample shade. Visitors will find cottonwood, pine, sand cherry, plum, Nanking cherry, quail bush, chokecherry and Chinese elm.
Attractions
Fishing
Anglers will find a lot of variety at the area, with catchable size rainbow trout stocked in Center Lake and Northwest Lake. Cutthroat trout, a species not common in Nebraska, have been stocked there, as well. Other species include walleye, largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch, and channel catfish.
Boating
Boating is popular at Bridgeport. All boats are permitted on Center Lake, the largest of the lakes on the state recreation area. However, boat traffic must travel in a counter-clockwise direction, and speeds are limited to 5 mph in the large bay at the southwest end of Center Lake. The smaller lakes are limited to non-powered vessels and those powered by conventional electric outboard motors.
Swimming
A designated swimming beach provides visitors with a place to cool off on warm summer days. No lifeguard is on duty.
Picnicking
With its many mature shade trees, Bridgeport is a popular spot for picnicking and grilling out. The area has 125 picnic tables, 100 grills and one picnic shelter.
Camping
Primitive camping
Bridgeport offers only primitive camping. The area includes about 130 non-designated sites. Water, pit latrines, a dump station and playground equipment are available for campers.
