Harmon Lake

Harmon Lake was completed in 2007 with the construction of a 67-foot high and 2,100-foot long dam on Otter Creek. It is owned by the Morton County Water Resource District and managed by the Morton County Parks Department, ensuring its upkeep and the availability of facilities for visitors.

Harmon Lake boasts an extensive trail system spanning 19.2 miles, which is highly regarded for mountain biking and hiking. These looped trails offer diverse scenery and are even home to the Otter Creek Mountain Bike race. While specific named routes aren't detailed, the entire network provides continuously changing views and is considered among the best in the state for these activities.

The trail system at Harmon Lake is generally accessible, offering a variety of looped trails suitable for different skill levels. While specific difficulty ratings for individual trails aren't provided, the extensive network allows hikers to choose paths that match their comfort and experience. The terrain consists of rolling grassy knolls, providing a scenic but manageable challenge.

Beyond the lake itself, a unique natural feature is the presence of remnants of trees from when Otter Creek was dammed to create Harmon Lake. These offer a glimpse into the area's history. The rolling grassy knolls surrounding the lake provide picturesque viewpoints, especially along the extensive trail system, which offers continuously changing scenic vistas.

Harmon Lake Recreation Area offers ample parking facilities for visitors. While specific details on parking fees or permits are not explicitly mentioned, it's generally advisable to check the Morton County Parks Department website for the most current information, especially during peak seasons or for special events. Parking areas are typically located near the main facilities like the beach, boat ramp, and trailheads.

Harmon Lake is a popular destination, particularly for its expansive sandy beach and extensive trail system. While specific crowding data isn't available, it's reasonable to expect higher visitor numbers during weekends, holidays, and the warmer months from spring through fall. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure preferred spots, especially for parking and beach access.

Yes, Harmon Lake is very family-friendly. It features an expansive sandy beach perfect for swimming and building sandcastles. The recreation area also includes playgrounds and picnic shelters, making it an ideal location for family outings. The availability of camping facilities, including electrical sites, further supports extended family visits.

While Harmon Lake is an outdoor recreation area, specific rules regarding dogs are not detailed in the provided information. Generally, in public recreation areas, dogs are often permitted on trails and in certain outdoor spaces but must be kept on a leash. It's always best to check with the Morton County Parks Department for their specific pet policies to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.

Harmon Lake Recreation Area itself offers camping facilities with 43 electrical sites and two group pads, providing on-site accommodation. For additional options like cafes, pubs, or hotels, visitors would need to venture to nearby towns. Mandan is approximately eight miles north, and Bismarck is about 23 miles northwest, both offering a wider range of dining and lodging choices.

Harmon Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it an attractive spot for anglers. You can expect to find northern pike, crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, rainbow trout, channel catfish, and black bullhead. The lake is well-equipped for fishing with a public boat ramp, a dock, and a floating fishing pier, providing multiple access points for anglers.

Harmon Lake is open year-round, suggesting that winter activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or ice fishing might be possible, depending on conditions. However, the introduction notes that facilities may be limited during the winter months. It's advisable to check with the Morton County Parks Department for current conditions and facility availability before planning a winter visit.