Bessey Recreation Complex
4.40124 reviews40637 River Loop
Bessey Recreation Complex
$15.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on services provided at different campsites. Group Standard Electric sites cost $125 per night, Standard Electric sites are $20 per night, and Tent Only Nonelectric sites are $15 per night.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of central Nebraska alongside the meandering Middle Loup River, Bessey Recreation Complex beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse tapestry of adventure opportunities. Whether you're casting a line into the river's gentle currents, exploring winding trails on foot, or navigating the sandy terrain on your ATV, this versatile destination promises something for every camping style. From intimate tent-only hideaways to spacious RV sites and gathering spots perfect for group adventures, Bessey creates the ideal basecamp for your Nebraska Sandhills exploration.
The Bessey Recreation Complex accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV sites, and group camping. Some sites are primitive, catering to those seeking a rustic experience, while others offer electric hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Bessey Recreation Complex, where your camping adventure unfolds in the shadow of the legendary Charles E. Bessey Nursery. As the oldest tree nursery in the entire Forest Service system, this historic landmark tells the remarkable story of transforming barren sand dunes into the forested oasis you see today. The legacy of conservation and land stewardship runs deep here, offering campers a chance to connect with over a century of environmental heritage while creating their own outdoor memories.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the rhythmic seasons of the Nebraska Sandhills, where warm summer days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool evenings are perfect for campfire gatherings. While the campground hums with activity during peak season—including the distant rumble of passing trains and the excitement of ATV enthusiasts—there's still plenty of space to find your own peaceful corner. As autumn paints the landscape in golden hues, the crowds thin and tranquility returns. Winter transforms the area into a snow-swept wilderness, beautiful to behold but challenging for camping, making spring through fall your window for the ultimate Bessey experience.
ElevationPerched atop the rolling Nebraska Sandhills, Bessey offers a gentle landscape that's surprisingly dynamic. While the RV areas provide level, easily accessible sites perfect for larger rigs, the tent camping zones introduce a touch of adventure with their naturally sloping terrain. This varied topography creates intimate camping nooks and elevated vantage points, allowing you to choose between convenience and a more immersive connection with the undulating sand hills that define this unique region.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the unexpected beauty of Nebraska's Sandhills, where ancient grass-stabilized dunes create a sea of rolling hills dotted with surprising pockets of yellow pine forest and graceful deciduous groves. This unique ecosystem attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters—watch for the theatrical displays of prairie chickens at dawn, catch glimpses of mule deer grazing in meadow clearings, and spot pronghorn antelopes racing across distant ridges. The interplay of forest and grassland creates ever-changing vistas that shift with the light, offering photographers and nature lovers endless inspiration throughout their stay.
Geological RegionDiscover one of North America's most fascinating geological wonders at Bessey Recreation Complex, set within the vast Nebraska Sandhills—the largest grass-stabilized sand dune region in the Western Hemisphere. These ancient dunes, formed by winds carrying sand from dried riverbeds thousands of years ago, now support a delicate ecosystem of native grasses that hold the shifting sands in place. Adjacent to the historic Charles E. Bessey Nursery, where pioneering foresters proved trees could thrive in this sandy soil, the campground offers a front-row seat to this remarkable landscape where human ingenuity and natural forces have created an outdoor paradise unlike anywhere else.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include flush toilets, showers, picnic shelters, and a fishing pier.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally spacious and well-maintained, accommodating both small and large groups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary depending on site location. Many sites are shaded and secluded, while others are located closer to busy ATV areas and train tracks.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the train tracks for quieter nighttime experiences. River Loop sites may be more scenic but closer to train noise.
Best CampsitesCampsite 006 in Cedar Loop is particularly appreciated for its amenities and proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Scan and Pay system allows immediate occupancy upon payment.
Check-out
Check-out time is determined by Recreation.gov and may vary.
Stay Limit
Scan and Pay restrictions apply
Guests Allowed Per Site
One trailer or two tents per site.
Groups
The group site accommodates multiple campers with electric hookups and a large bonfire ring. It is often praised for being spacious and having plenty of picnic tables.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into three main loops: River Loop, Cedar Loop, and Hardwood Loop.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal operations: May 25th to October 6th (reservable dates).
Reservation PlatformsAvailable on Recreation.gov via website and mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites available. Payments can be made via Scan and Pay system.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay sites do not offer refunds, modifications, or cancellations. For other reservations, cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's payment if canceled after 12:00 AM before arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The Bessey Recreation Complex provides a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, ATV trails, wildlife viewing, and access to the shallow Middle Loup River for tubing and canoeing. The seven-acre pond offers fishing opportunities, and the Scott Lookout Tower provides panoramic views of the Sandhills.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and vary in difficulty. Notable trails include a three-mile hike to the Scott Fire Lookout Tower, which offers breathtaking views.Fishing
Fishing is popular in the seven-acre pond stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, trout, and catfish. An accessible fishing pier enhances convenience for all visitors.Swimming
Swimming options are available in the shallow Middle Loup River adjacent to the campground, though river access is limited according to user feedback.Biking
The campground features biking trails suitable for all levels and is praised as a fun activity by reviewers.Boating
Canoeing and tubing are popular activities on the Middle Loup River, which is shallow and steady flowing.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding Nebraska National Forest provides ample opportunities to observe wildlife such as prairie chickens, deer, turkeys, and eagles.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not prominently featured, though vault toilets remain accessible year-round.Water Sports
Popular water sports include tubing, canoeing, and fishing at the river and pond.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but firewood must be sourced locally per 'Don't Move Firewood' regulations.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to train tracks results in frequent loud noises throughout the night. ATV activity contributes to potential risks within the campground. Flooding concerns may exist for sites near the river during heavy rains.
Active alertsUser reviews note seasonal closures due to fires (e.g., closed until December 2022)
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Thedford, Nebraska, 16 miles west of the campground. This includes a small hospital and local police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 25th to October 6th.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available; however, some reviewers have commented on dumpsters being located too close to campsites, causing odor issues.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Middle Loup River and features a fishing pond stocked with bass, bluegill, trout, and catfish.
Common complaintsTrain noise and ATV disturbances are frequently cited in reviews. Some users have also mentioned cleanliness issues during peak weekends.
HostHosts are not always present but are noted by users as helpful when available.
Campground Map
40637 River Loop
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 80, travel north from North Platte, Nebraska on U.S. Hwy 83 for 65 miles to Thedford, Nebraska. Continue East for 16 miles on Nebraska Hwy 2, then South .05 miles from Hwy 2 on State Spur 86B.
The campground is easy to access from major roads, with paved highways leading up to the entrance point. However, some nearby attractions require off-road vehicles, including routes to other nearby campgrounds such as Whitetail.Nearby places
Thedford (16 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Halsey (10 miles, approximately 12 minutes), Dunning (10 miles, approximately 12 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Thedford, Nebraska offers restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores. Halsey has a restaurant, and Dunning has a gas station with groceries.
Camper Reviews
4.4
124 reviews
Bessey Recreation Complex is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bessey Recreation Complex are mixed, highlighting well-maintained facilities and diverse recreational opportunities but also mentioning disruptive train noise and ATV activity.
Review Summaries
Based on 124 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention clean facilities, friendly staff, spacious campsites, and enjoyable activities such as hiking and ATV riding. The Scott Fire Lookout Tower and accessible fishing...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include loud train noise, disruptive ATV activity, and restroom cleanliness during peak times. Some users also note limited river access and proximity to dumpsters causing odor...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend avoiding campsites near train tracks for a quieter experience, booking in advance to secure preferred sites, and bringing earplugs to mitigate train noise. Many suggest visiting...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During peak summer weekends, the campground is busy, and ATV activity can be disruptive. Reviews suggest visiting during weekdays or off-season for quieter experiences.
Based on 124 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'This park is an awesome place to ride ATVs or motorcycles. All sand trails so you better be damn good if you're on a motorcycle.' - Scooter Jumpingbean
- 'The campground is nice with a lot of...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 6 in Cedar Loop and Site 32 in River Loop are frequently mentioned. Visitors appreciate Site 6's proximity to the river but complain about train noise. Site 32 is praised for its spaciousness...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible features such as flush toilets, showers, and fishing piers are appreciated by campers with disabilities. However, complaints about restroom cleanliness may affect overall accessibility.
Based on 124 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the campground, and reviewers note that pets enjoy the river and trails. However, some express concerns about noisy ATV activity near campsites.
Based on 124 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025