Harlan County Lake camping offers a mix of recreation opportunities on Nebraska's second-largest lake across 13,000 acres of water. The surrounding landscape features mixed grass prairie with scattered trees providing shade at many campsites. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with strong winds often blowing across the lake. Campgrounds operate primarily from May through September, with limited winter camping options at South Outlet Camping.
What to do
Fish cleaning stations: Hunter Cove Park provides a dedicated fish cleaning station with grinder and running water near the entrance for processing your catch. "Fishing is popular here with a great boat ramp and area to clean the walleye or whatever is biting that day," notes Carly P. about COE Harlan County Lake Hunter Cove Park.
Archery range: North Outlet Camping features an archery range for target practice. "The archery range is the best thing about this campground making me wish I had my bow," reports N I. about North Outlet Camping.
Swimming beaches: Several areas offer swimming access, though conditions vary by location. "We had a whole area of this campground to ourselves during the week in April. It had what seemed like a hundred campsites, some with power and some without," reports Jill about Methodist Cove Campground.
Boating options: Launch your boat from multiple ramps around the lake for fishing and recreation. "The lake offers a variety of hiking trails of varying length and style, as well as one equestrian trail a short drive away. An off-road vehicle trail is located in nearby Republican City," notes N I.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Some locations provide extra room between sites. "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," shares Barb C. about COE Harlan County Lake Methodist Cove Campground.
Lake breezes: The natural air circulation helps moderate summer temperatures. "While the temps were in the 90's and humid out in the sun, our site stayed between 78 and 80 due to the cooling breezes coming from the lake," continues Barb C.
Convenient services: Proximity to town amenities makes supply runs simple. "This is a smaller RV campground within the city of Alma, NE. Very popular boating on the Harlan reservoir. The town offers easy grocery shopping or supply runs," explains Carly P. about Alma RV Park City Park.
Wildlife viewing: Campers can spot various animals in the park areas. "We also saw some quail and a pair of female deer here," notes James D.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Check opening dates before arrival. "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," reports Lindsey P.
Wind conditions: Be prepared for strong gusts across the open lake. "The wind blew hard across the lake," notes Richard H.
Insects: Bug protection is essential during warmer months. "The flies were horrendous! Houseflies were very aggressive. Other gnats, of unknown origin were prevalent after the houseflies went to bed," warns Tim C.
Boat regulations: Nebraska requires special decals for watercraft. "All watercraft pose a threat of AIS Aquatic Invasive Species to the waterways in Nebraska and waterways in other states. Non residents must obtain the AIS decal and apply to watercraft," explains N I. about Cedar Point.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Great play area for children. Most sites have mature trees but watch out for the blood thirsty mosquitoes," observes N I. about Hunter Cove Park.
Group facilities: Consider reserving special areas for larger gatherings. "There are also two group campsites and a covered picnic facility that would be great for reunions," recommends Carly P.
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with various activities. "There are two playgrounds, volleyball court, boat ramp, fish cleaning station with grinder and running water," lists N I. about Methodist Cove Campground.
Cabin alternatives: For those wanting more comfort than tent camping. "We've been camping at Patterson Harbor Marina for the past 15 years off and on. It is a nice campground with 80 sites and also has cabins you can buy or rent," explains Shannon G.
Tips from RVers
Electric access: Hunter Cove offers multiple electrical options. "We had our pick of the best spot. With the Interagency Lifetime Seniors Pass $8 a night until April 30. Sweet deal. Water pressure is good. 50/30/20 amp," shares Nancy C.
Off-season rates: Look for discounts during shoulder seasons. "With the Interagency Lifetime Seniors Pass $8 a night until April 30. Sweet deal," reports Nancy C.
Road conditions: Be prepared for narrow routes when towing. "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," warns N I. about South Outlet Camping.
Water access points: Some sites offer better lake views than others. "There are several water sites and even the sites that are not on the water you will still have a view of the water," notes N I.
