Spotlight

Nebraska National Forest, Bessey Ranger District, NE – May 23-25, 2025

Join Leave No Trace at Nebraska National Forest, Bessey Ranger District, NE – May 23-25, 2025

Each year we hand-select nominated outdoor spaces that need our collective care and attention. By designating them as Spotlights, we’re rallying the local community to step up, join forces with Leave No Trace, and make a meaningful impact that can revitalize and protect these special places where we recreate, enjoy one another’s company, and elevate our health physically, mentally and emotionally.

Nebraska National Forest, Bessey Ranger District has been selected as a 2025 Leave No Trace Spotlight. Leave No Trace will be at Nebraska National Forest, Bessey Ranger District May 23-25, collaborating with hosts and partners on a variety of programs including stewardship projects, workshops, and community outreach.

Opportunities to Get Involved:

FRIDAY, MAY 23:

Leave No Trace Pop-up Education & Outreach, 2-6 pm, Bessey Recreation Complex Campground, Halsey, NE

Join Leave No Trace, the US Forest Service, and Black Hills Parks and Forests Association for engaging outreach and education. Play quick games to learn more about Leave No Trace and how to care for Nebraska National Forest and all your favorite outdoor spaces.

SATURDAY, MAY 24:

Leave No Trace Pop-up Education & Outreach, 9-11 am and 1-3 pm, Dismal Trailhead, Halsey, NE

Join Leave No Trace, the US Forest Service, and Black Hills Parks and Forests Association for engaging outreach and education. Play quick games and activities to learn more about Leave No Trace and how to protect the beauty, wildlife, and special resources of the forest and all your favorite outdoor spaces.

🌲Leave No Trace Family Adventure Night – Evening Campground Program with Smokey Bear! 🔥 7:00-8:30 pm, Bessey Recreation Complex and Campground, Halsey, NE

Join Leave No Trace, the US Forest Service, and the Black Hills Parks and Forests Association for a fun-filled family evening of learning and nature-based excitement! Meet the one and only Smokey Bear at 7 PM – snap a photo, get a bear hug, and kick off the night with a forest celebrity! Then dive into the world of responsible campfires through hands-on games, interactive activities, and Smokey Bear-themed storytelling that will spark your imagination and your love for the outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, this is the perfect chance to learn how to care for the outdoors—all while having a blast with your whole crew!

SUNDAY, MAY 25:

Bessey Recreation Complex Volunteer Cleanup, 10:00 -11:30 am, Meet at Fish Pond Parking lot

Join Leave No Trace, the Black Hills Parks & Forests Association, and the US Forest Service for a rewarding day of action in the beautiful Nebraska National Forest! Help us clean up the trail from the Bessey Recreation Complex to Halsey along Highway 2—every bottle, can, and wrapper you collect helps keep this special place clean and wonderful. Volunteers will learn more about stewardship education and how to protect and enjoy the forest responsibly. Bring back your trash for fun giveaways and small prizes!

Important information:

– Bring water, snacks, a hat, sunscreen, and dress for the weather.
– Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
– Long pants and closed-toed shoes are recommended
– Trash bags provided, but please bring work gloves if you have them.
– Advance sign up not needed.