Nebraska National Forest - Bessey / Halsey
The Nebraska National Forest - Bessey/Halsey is the eastern half of the Nebraska National Forest. It is best known for its hand-planted forest and the Bessey Nursery.
The Nebraska National Forest near Halsey, Nebraska began in 1902 as an experiment to raise trees and plant them nearby in what became the largest human-planted forest in the United States. The Bessey Recreation Complex is located next to the tree nursery and offers camping, fishing, motorized and non-motorized trails, and nearby river access. RV camping, OHV riding, and hunting are primary uses. There is an accessible fishing pier and pond. Bird blinds are available in the spring to watch prairie grouse dance on their leks.
The Nebraska State 4-H Camp and the historic Scott Lookout Tower were burned in the 2022 Bovee Wildfire. Plans to restore both are under consideration.
General Information
Open year-round.
Passes & Permits
An annual day-use pass costs $20. The pass gives access to:
- Parking at the recreation complex where the OHV trailheads are;
- Use of the fish pond; and
- Use of the picnic area.
An annual day-use pass does not cover campground fees. Campground fees are $20 per night for a site with electricity and $15 per night for a site without electricity. Without a day-use pass, the cost of the day-use areas is $5 per vehicle.
Complexes
This small pond, located just north of the Middle Loup River, is open to fishing all year round. It has ample parking. Nebraska Game and Parks regularly st
Recreation Sites
Bessey Fish Pond
Charles E. Bessey Tree Nursery
Grouse Viewing Blinds - Bessey
Natick Campground
Scott Lookout Tower
Whitetail Campground