Harlan County Lake near Alma, Nebraska covers 13,000 acres, making it Nebraska's second largest lake. The lake sits in a rural agricultural region characterized by mixed grass prairie lands and seasonal temperature fluctuations. Camping options range from primitive sites to full-hookup RV areas, with most facilities operating primarily from May through September when temperatures typically reach 90°F during summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The lake offers exceptional fishing with multiple species. One angler at COE Harlan County Lake Methodist Cove Campground noted, "Harlan County Lake Near Alma, Nebraska Methodist Cove Park is located on the west side of Harlan County Lake by Alma, Nebraska. The 13,000-acre Harlan County Lake is the second largest lake in the state. The lake and surrounding land hold great appeal for sportsmen, birders, naturalists or anyone wanting to just get away."
Archery range: Located at North Outlet Camping, this unique feature provides a specialized recreation option. According to a camper: "This campground is a bit of a third choice unless you want to practice archery. The archery range is the best thing about this campground making me wish I had my bow."
Off-road vehicle trails: Republican City provides designated areas for ATVs. A visitor at South Outlet Camping observed, "This camp is located below the dam on a gravel road. Road is wash board and I am sure that on weekends ATV will abound. There is an ATV staging area just down the road. This will be a great location for hunting camps during the fall."
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Many campers appreciate the waterfront camping options. At COE Harlan County Lake Hunter Cove Park, a reviewer highlighted, "The park is blessed with a lot of mature trees giving most sites a nice shade. There are several water sites and even the sites that are not on the water you will still have a view of the water."
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife beyond just fish. An experienced camper shared, "Game animals include pheasant, quail, prairie chicken, white-tailed and mule deer, turkey, waterfowl, rabbit and squirrel. The lake offers a variety of hiking trails of varying length and style, as well as one equestrian trail a short drive away."
Spacious campsites: Methodist Cove offers notably large sites. One visitor mentioned, "We chose campsite #63, just back from the shoreline. It was an extremely large site with plenty of room to play with our dogs without bothering anyone else. Plenty of places to walk or hike along the shoreline."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. A camper at Alma RV Park City Park noted, "We set up before we noticed the sign said it is open April 15-Oct 15. The water was shut off but we had electricity. Nice, clean campground with shade."
Insect concerns: Flies can be problematic during warmer months. According to a visitor: "This is a great city campground, with a grocery store two blocks away but the flies were horrendous! Houseflies were very aggressive. Other gnats, of unknown origin were prevalent after the houseflies went to bed."
Weather patterns: The region experiences strong winds. One camper reported, "When we were here the wind was in the 30 to 40 mph range so we couldn't have our awning out and made it hard to keep the Blackstone up to temp. Oh well, that's to be expected in these parts!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play facilities for children. At North Shore Marina Campground, a visitor observed, "Driving in, there is a nice new playground on the left. Then you pass through a mobile home section. Not trashy at all. It looks like people's summer places on the lake."
Recreational amenities: Hunter Cove provides various activity options for kids. A reviewer mentioned, "Large campground with primative and RV sites. Dogs are allowed on leash and there are plenty of places for the kids to run around and play. There is a heated shower and coin operated laundry available in the campground."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Alma: Methodist Cove has particularly spacious sites for pets. A camper shared, "We chose campsite #63, just back from the shoreline. It was an extremely large site with plenty of room to play with our dogs without bothering anyone else. Plenty of places to walk or hike along the shoreline."
Tips from RVers
Supply logistics: Limited services mean preparation is necessary. A visitor at Cedar Point advised, "When you turn off the main highway there is a liquor store and just down from that is a bait shop where I would guess you could pick up some supplies. There is a market in Alma, Nebraska. Make sure you purchase your supplies before arriving."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger rigs. According to one camper: "Roads are what I would consider secondary. Rather narrow, especially if you meet a vehicle pulling a boat and you are in an RV so be prepared."
Water access for pets: Pet-friendly accommodations with water access are available. A visitor noted, "If you have a reservation and the camp host is not on duty you will find your spot and they have place a tag with your name and dates of arrival. Sites are well marked and well maintained. There are sections for tent campers and many are water sites."
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