Harlan County Lake spans over 13,000 acres, making it the second largest lake in Nebraska. Located in the Republican River Valley, the lake offers multiple primitive and developed camping options with varying amenities. Summer temperatures typically reach the 90s, though campsites near the water benefit from cooling lake breezes that can keep temperatures in the high 70s even during the hottest days.
What to do
Archery practice: North Outlet Camping features a dedicated archery range that's ideal for bow enthusiasts. According to one camper, "The archery range is the best thing about this campground making me wish I had my bow."
Fishing for multiple species: COE Harlan County Lake Hunter Cove Park offers excellent fishing opportunities with a boat ramp and cleaning station. One visitor noted, "Fishing is popular here with a great boat ramp and area to clean the walleye or whatever is biting that day." The lake supports walleye, wipers, white bass, northern pike and channel catfish.
Swimming at beach areas: Cedar Point provides swimming access, though facilities are basic. A visitor describes it: "Upon turn off follow road to the right and it will lead you to a parking lot and a swimming beach. There is a pit toilet. Road to the swimming beach is paved and in good shape."
Boating and water sports: The Republican River feeds the lake, creating numerous water recreation opportunities. A camper at Alma RV Park City Park mentioned, "Very popular boating on the Harlan reservoir. The town offers easy grocery shopping or supply runs."
What campers like
Well-spaced sites with privacy: COE Harlan County Lake Methodist Cove Campground offers generously sized campsites. One camper reported, "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."
Quiet weekday camping: Hunter Cove Park can be nearly empty during weekdays in spring. A camper shared, "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."
Accessible facilities: Several campgrounds offer amenities for various camping styles. 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. The campground is clean with small sites."
Affordable camping with passes: Hunter Cove offers discounted rates for seniors. One visitor noted, "With the Interagency Lifetime Seniors Pass, $8 a night until April 30. Sweet deal. And, it's really beautiful here."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds have limited seasons. As one camper at Alma RV Park City Park discovered, "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."
Insect concerns: Flies can be problematic during summer months. A camper at Alma RV Park observed, "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."
Watercraft regulations: All watercraft require proper certification. At Methodist Cove Campground, a camper noted, "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."
Limited supplies nearby: Stock up before arrival. As one camper at South Outlet Camping 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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. At North Shore Marina Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Driving in, there is a nice new playground on the left." Hunter Cove Park also offers recreational facilities with a camper noting, "Great play area for children."
Dog friendly campgrounds Harlan County Lake: Hunter Cove Park welcomes pets with restrictions. According to one visitor, "Large campground with primitive and RV sites. Dogs are allowed on leash and there are plenty of places for the kids to run around and play."
Shoreline exploration: The lake offers numerous opportunities for family activities. A camper at Methodist Cove Campground shared, "Plenty of places to walk or hike along the shoreline. 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."
Group facilities: Methodist Cove has options for larger gatherings. A reviewer mentioned, "There are also two group campsites and a covered picnic facility that would be great for reunions."
Tips from RVers
Wind considerations: The open plains location means wind can be significant. At South Park Municipal Campground, a camper advised, "After fighting the wind for most of the day I was grateful to find this - right off hwy 10 - it's a two lane highway so there was virtually no traffic noise."
Road conditions: Access roads may present challenges for larger vehicles. A visitor to Hunter Cove noted, "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."
Hookup variations: Electric options vary between campgrounds. At Hunter Cove Park, a camper observed, "Water pressure is good. 50/30/20 amp. Yes, the bathhouse is dated, but it's OK. Warmth and Hot Showers are what is really needed."
Laundry facilities: Some campgrounds offer washing machines. At Methodist Cove, a visitor found, "A bonus was a washer and dryer located in both the men's and women's bath/toilet facility. That facility was very clean."
