Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District
Halsey, NE
The largest hand-planted forest in the US, started in 1902 to prove trees could grow in the Sandhills. Climb the Scott Lookout Tower for a view of pines against the dunes.
- Nearest town
- Halsey, NE
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 41.9000, -100.2900
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, August and October. Cold, short days in December–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
© inkknife_2000 (7.5 million views +) · CC BY-SA 2.0Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park
Photo by Julie Barber on UnsplashSnake River Falls
© Blaze Wolf · CC BY-SA 4.0Smith Falls State Park
© U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters · Public domainFort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge
Campsites nearby
- Bessey Recreation AreaCampsite0 mi from Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District
- Natick CampgroundCampsite6 mi from Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District
- White Tail CampgroundCampsite7 mi from Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District
All campsites in Nebraska · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District?
Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District is in Halsey, NE, at GPS 41.9000, -100.2900. It is about 11 mi from Dunning.
Can you camp near Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Bessey Recreation Area, about 0 mi away; within 25 mi there are 3 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District?
Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Nebraska Sandhills on Highway 2.
What is there to see near Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District?
Places worth a stop nearby: Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park (57 mi), Snake River Falls (63 mi), Smith Falls State Park (68 mi) and Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge (69 mi).
When is the best time to visit Nebraska National Forest, Bessey District?
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, August and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)