Natural swimming hole
Kirkman's Cove Recreation Area beach
Lake · Nebraska
About this swimming hole
Kirkman's Cove Recreation Area is a Nemaha Natural Resources District park of about 500 acres around a 160-acre lake north and east of Humboldt. A sandy beach provides a place to sunbathe and take a dip, and bathrooms are positioned between the camping area and the beach. A Nemaha NRD park permit is required for entry.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | $5 daily Nemaha NRD park permit; annual permits available |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Park parking at the recreation area entrance |
| Amenities | sand beach, bathrooms, campsites, boat access |
| County | Richardson County |
| Nearest town | Humboldt |
| Safety notes | Swim at your own risk; no lifeguards sourced; the lake has had harmful algal blooms in past seasons - check Nebraska Beach Watch before swimming |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Kirkman's Cove Recreation Area beach?
Yes — Kirkman's Cove Recreation Area beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in Nebraska. Heads-up: Swim at your own risk; no lifeguards sourced; the lake has had harmful algal blooms in past seasons - check Nebraska Beach Watch before swimming. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Kirkman's Cove Recreation Area beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Kirkman's Cove Recreation Area beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Kirkman's Cove Recreation Area beach?
Reported fee info: $5 daily Nemaha NRD park permit; annual permits available. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Kirkman's Cove Recreation Area beach?
The best season is typically June-August.