There are two distinct areas of the Nebraska National Forest. One section is situated in the northwest panhandle south and west of Chadron, while the other is located near Halsey in central Nebraska. Both offer unique recreation opportunities in the wide open spaces of Nebraska.
The Halsey portion of the Nebraska National Forest is managed by the Bessey Ranger District. This unique area encompassed by the Nebraska Sandhills. The Sandhills region is one of the largest contiguous and least-disturbed prairies in all of the United States. The Sandhills are home to a large complement of wildlife: birds, bugs, reptiles, and mammals
Mountain bikers have discovered the sandhills, which have miles of rolling terrain and long views. The mountain biking is best after a rain or in colder weather, when the sand is firm or frozen. The soft sand can be managed by using extra-fat tires.
Status:
Open
Open Season:
January-December
Fees:
$3.00 parking fee
Usage:
Light.
Best Season:
Any time but very dry conditions
Areas for Mountain Biking at Nebraska National Forest at Halsey
The Bessey Recreation Complex consists of 3 camping loops (Hardwood, Cedar, and River) and a group campground. Natick Campground has no electric hookups, 20 horse corrals, and potable water. Whitetail Campground is located on the Dismal River, has 10 horse corrals, is near ATV trails, and has potable water.
Areas for Campground Camping at Nebraska National Forest at Halsey
Dispersed camping is allowed anywhere on the forest. Vehicles, however, must camp within 300 feet of either side of a road designated on the motor vehicle use map. Always Leave No Trace.
Status:
Open
Open Season:
January-December
Fees:
None
Reservation info:
None
Usage:
Generally light, except during rifle deer season when use is heavy.
Fishing
SHOW
Lake and Pond Fishing
Areas for Lake and Pond Fishing at Nebraska National Forest at Halsey
The Scott Tower National Recreation Trail is a 3-mile trail that connects the main recreation complex with the Scott Lookout Tower. The tower is open all year. Hiking and backpacking is open anywhere on the forest. Always know before you go, plan ahead and prepare.
Difficulty Desc.
Climbing the tower is tough if you are not in shape - take it slow.
Status:
Open
Fees:
None, unless parking in the main lot which is $3.00 per day.
Usage:
If you are afraid of heights, climbing the tower is probably not for you.
Hours of Operation:
Trails and the tower are open all the time unless otherwise posted.
Areas for Day Hiking at Nebraska National Forest at Halsey
The district features approximately 23 miles of ATV trails (for vehicles 50 inches wide or less) and 11 miles of trails for side-by-sides (wider than 50 inches).
Status:
Open
Open Season:
January-December
Fees:
$3.00 parking fee in the main lot
Reservation info:
None required.
Usage:
The trails are narrow, only accommodating a single ATV in most places. Traffic goes both directions, so use caution around blind curves.
Areas for OHV Trail Riding at Nebraska National Forest at Halsey
SHOW
The Scott Tower National Recreation Trail is a 3-mile trail that connects the main recreation complex with the Scott Lookout Tower. The tower is open all year. Hiking and backpacking is open anywhere on the forest. Always know before you go, plan ahead and prepare.
The sandhills are home to a large complement of wildlife: birds, bugs, reptiles, and mammals. Here a biologist observes a spadefoot toad.
HIDE
