The Bessey Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest, about 90,000 acres, is the largest human-planted forest in the United States, begun in 1902. Its office is at 40637 River Loop, Halsey (mail PO Box 39), open Monday–Friday 8:30–5 Central. The district runs the Bessey Recreation Complex, Natick and Whitetail campgrounds, about 36 miles of OHV trail and spring grouse-viewing blinds. Stage 1 fire restrictions have been in effect since July 18, 2026. Phone (308) 533-2257; Forest Supervisor’s Office, Chadron, (308) 432-0300.