Harlan County Lake is a reservoir and dam in the south-central region of Nebraska. It is said that Native Americans had warned settlers not to make their homes or farms near the river due to flooding. Farmers ignored the warnings and were attracted to the area because of the rich soil for farming. While floods were frequent over the years, in 1935 there was catastrophic flooding that destroyed much of the infrastructure and took many lives. The dam was constructed as a result to prevent additional disasters.
While the primary purpose of the reservoir and dam is for flood control, the 13,000-acre lake attracts many for recreational use. Fishing is one of the most popular activities with a variety of fish available, including walleye and bass. During the summer months, bring along a tube and float down the refreshing water of the Republican River. Many trails offer a range of activities from hiking and biking to ATV use.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers maintains campgrounds in parks located around Harlan County Lake. The campsites are reservable online. The campsites available are a mix of non-electric and electric. Each of the parks offers amenities including a boat ramp, fish cleaning station, and a playground. All Corps of Engineers parks at Harlan County Lake are pet-friendly.
Harlan County Lake is in southern Nebraska, not far from the Kansas state line. It can be accessed from US Hwy 136. There are several recreational parks around Harlan County Lake that are managed by the Corps of Engineers.
There are plenty of cities and towns near the lake, including Alma and Republican City. If in need of gas, groceries, or other services you won’t need to travel far from the lake or campgrounds.
Methodist Cove and Hunter Cove Parks both have campgrounds that can accommodate RVs and trailers of any size with some sites extending to 85 feet in length. The main road in each of these parks is paved, but the other roads, including those in the campground, are gravel.
Methodist Cove Park has 133 campsites. The campsites are a mix of non-electric and electric. Most are individual sites, though there are group sites available to reserve also. The campsites at Methodist Cove can fit RVs and trailers up to 80 feet in length. Restrooms with heated showers are centrally located at the park. Vault toilets are scattered throughout the campground. Additional amenities include drinking water, a playground, a boat ramp, a fish cleaning station, and a dump station.
Hunter Cove Park has 150 campsites which are a mix of non-electric and electric campsites. RVs and trailers up to 85 feet in length can be accommodated at some sites.
Hunter Cove offers several amenities for visitors to take advantage of. Amenities include playgrounds, a volleyball court, a boat ramp, and a fish cleaning station.
Boating and other water sports bring many visitors to the 13,000-acre Harlan County Lake. Whether you’re water skiing, kayaking, or spending a leisurely afternoon on your boat, you’re sure to have a good time out on the water. There are several boat ramps located around the lake at the Corps of Engineers recreational areas. Additionally, there are two full-service marinas on the east end of the lake.
Tubing is a popular activity during the summertime on the Republican River. The section of the river from Harlan County Dam to Naponee is a popular tubing route. The river is slow-moving and is considered to be “easy.” If visiting during the summer months, don’t forget to bring along a tube to enjoy the refreshing river water.
Cedar Run ATV Trail provides nine miles of terrain for ATV and dirt bike use. There are trails and routes for all skill levels from beginners to those looking for a challenge. Riders can expect to travel through rolling hills, forested areas, and prairie grasses. A staging area at the trailhead has plenty of parking, a picnic shelter, and restrooms.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages and maintains three picnic shelters on Harlan County Lake. These shelters can be reserved. Methodist Cove Shelter is in Methodist Cove Park. This pavilion has open walls with many picnic tables and grills to prepare your group’s tasty meal. High Point Shelter is fully enclosed with a fireplace, grills, and restrooms. High Point Shelter has beautiful views of the lake and dam. The enclosed Gremlin Cove Shelter offers a playground, fireplace, and grills.
Fishing is one of the main attractions at Harlan County Lake and can be done throughout the year. Walleye, northern pike, crappie, catfish, and bass fishing is offered year-round. A Nebraska fishing license is required for those under the age of 16. Be sure to pack your license along or pick one up on your way to the lake.
There are several trails that can be enjoyed by Harlan County Lake visitors. The trails provide the perfect opportunity for wildlife viewing as well as learning more about the area. Pheasant Ridge Trail is open to hiking and biking. The trail is three miles in length and has many historical sites along the path. For those with horses, Peckerneck Trail is open to equestrians.
Harlan County Lake attracts many hunters during hunting season. With an abundance of wildlife, there are many different types of game animals. White-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, coyotes, squirrel, and bobcats are just some species that are commonly sought after. Ensure you obtain the necessary hunting permits and are familiar with limits and other regulations prior to your trip.
