Are you looking for outdoor sports like hunting, fishing and bird watching? There are great opportunities for appreciating nature in Phelps County. Do you prefer a swimming pool to a swimming hole? You can do that in Phelps County, too. Golf? How about frisbee golf? We can even point you to the ATV and horseback riding trails. Check out your outdoor options right here.
GOLF
Holdrege Country Club
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Holdrege Country Club’s front and back nines represent two different styles of design. The front nine has water hazards coming into play on seven holes, plus a lot of sand bunkers. The front nine fairways are tree-lined. The back nine is a links-type design with large greens and open fairways. However, water only comes into play on two holes. Jeff Brauer designed the back nine, which was added in 1985. A full bar, restaurant and snack bar are also available.
Popular
Highline Association
Bertrand features a nine-hole, par 35 golf course that is beautifully maintained and has reasonable green fees (tee times not required.) The course overlooks the scenic rolling hills of pastureland south of town and is open from early spring through late fall (plus whenever weather permits year ’round).
707 School St
Bertrand, NE 68927
(308) 472-3779
Other Area Golf Courses
Kearney Golf Courses:
Meadowlark Hills
3300 30th Ave.
(308) 233-3265
Buffalo Ridge
7335 N. Ave.
(308) 236-5879
Elks Country Golf
2635 E 103rd St.
(308) 238-0760
BIRDWATCHING
Funk Waterfowl Protection Area
This part of Nebraska is one of the richest bird watching regions of the country. During spring and fall migration, as many as 300 different species of birds can be found in habitats throughout Phelps County and south central Nebraska. Visit nebraskabirdingtrails.com for printable maps, bird lists, and tips.
Lake Seldom
Lake Seldom is located on the south edge of Holdrege, adjacent to Highway 183. A trail and signage enhance viewing migratory birds and other wildlife. Here you can see migrating waterfowl and shore birds picking at snails and other crustaceans in the mudflats.
HUNTING
FISHING
Phelps County holds an abundant supply of deer, pheasants, ducks, geese, quail, and other upland game. For current information on hunting permits, seasons, limits, etc., visit the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website. You can even order permits online.
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission also has considerable information on area fishing. Holdrege has fishing available in town at the North Park, and more fishing opportunities can be seen below under “Lakes”. For fishing license information, visit the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website.
Lakes & Reservoirs
Johnson Lake
This 81-acre recreation area, leased from the Central Nebraska Public Power & Irrigation District, provides some exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities that include swimming, boating, hiking and camping.
Harlan County Lake
Stretching between Alma, NE and Republican City, Ne, Harlan County Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project and Nebraska’s second largest lake.
Considered the finest walleye fishery in the state, Harlan County is also known for its white bass, wipers, catfish, crappie, northern, and largemouth bass.
The lake is a favorite for camping, boating, and water skiing.
Parks
North Park - Holdrege
Enjoy the North Park Lake for fishing or just a casual walk around the park’s trail. There are playground facilities for children, tennis courts, and lots of open green space to play Frisbee or football or any other form of catch! The “Promise of the Prairie” statue, sculpted by native son George Lundeen, is located on the walking trail. An arboretum borders the east side of the lake.
Veteran's Memorial Park, Bertrand
Splash Pad - Loomis
The Splash Pad in the Loomis City Park is open daily from dawn to dusk during the warmer months. The water is activated after the threat of freeze has passed in the spring, and turned off before the first freeze in the fall.
Veteran's Memorial Park, Holdrege - Coming 2021
Swimming
City of Holdrege Pool
The City of Holdrege pool, located at the edge of South Park at 2nd Avenue and Blaine Street, is a popular destination in the summer months. The Olympic-size pool is heated with separated diving, wading, and water slide areas.
Splash Pad - Loomis
The Splash Pad in the Loomis City Park is open daily from dawn to dusk during the warmer months. The water is activated after the threat of freeze has passed in the spring, and turned off before the first freeze in the fall.
Local Shopping
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Find a place to Shop
Skip the big-city crowds and enjoy personalized service at our quaint boutiques and shops.
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Local Lodging
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Find a place to Sleep
Phelps County has modern hotels and campgrounds. You'll find plenty of places to catch a good night’s sleep.
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Local Restaurants
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Find a place to Eat
Steak is our specialty in Phelps County, but you’ll find a world of flavors at our delicious local restaurants.
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