The reconstructed Lakeview Campground in Sibley State Park will open May 16, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced Thursday.
Campsite reservations for overnight stays beginning May 16 or later can now be made online or by calling 866-857-2757.
The campground was closed in 2024 for the large-scale renovation project, which represents a $4.86 million investment in Sibley State Park.
The renovation reduced the number of camping sites in the lakeside campground but provided for larger campsites. The reconstructed campground holds 41 camping sites in place of 71 campsites previously.
The project also included replacing water, electric and sanitary sewer utilities, improving the roadway and stormwater management, and restoring the historic Veterans Conservation Corps buildings. Lakeview Campground was originally developed as the campsite for Company 1785 of the Veterans Conservation Corps, which developed in the years 1935 to 1938.
When it opens in May, the campground will also include a new nature play area to enjoy, according to the DNR announcement. The nature play area was made possible with generous donations from the Sibley State Park Improvement Association in partnership with Dr. Roger and Kay Strand and Mary Kehrer-Schneider.
The Lakeview Campground has long been one of the most popular in the state park system and saw 100% occupancy on most summer weekends. Sibley’s other camping and lodging options include a wooded campground called Oak Ridge, as well as camper cabins, a horse camp, a group camp and a group center.
Breitbach Construction, of Elrosa, was the prime contractor for the Lakeview Campground reconstruction. The project’s May opening keeps with the original plans, despite a wet start to the summer of 2024 that slowed the renovation work.
“We’re excited for campers to enjoy the new facilities and features at Lakeview Campground. This major renovation ensures that the campground meets the needs of today’s outdoor enthusiasts, with improved, modern amenities and expanded accessibility features for all visitors,” said Ann Pierce, director of Minnesota DNR’s Parks and Trails Division, in the DNR news release.
The project was made possible thanks to Get Out MORE funding, along with funding from the Parks and Trails Legacy Fund and the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund.
This is a historic, one-time investment of $150 million to help ensure Minnesotans of all abilities and interests enjoy a world-class recreation system, whichever outdoor experience they choose.
