Tucked into the center of Nebraska where grassland meets forest, the Bessey Ranger District unfolds in long, quiet stretches of pine and sand. It’s the country’s largest hand-planted forest—a bold 20th-century experiment turned unexpected refuge. Around it, a series of small towns persist in ways that defy trend and noise. Places like Halsey, Mullen, and Arnold aren’t destinations in the conventional sense, but they hold onto something more essential: time, space, and a close relationship with the land.
These aren’t museum towns. They work. They grow hay and raise cattle. They hold school fundraisers in VFW halls and know every name on a mailbox. They’re remote in a way that doesn’t require branding—it just is. But for those looking to recalibrate, the towns surrounding Bessey offer a different register entirely. There’s a rhythm to life here that runs beneath the surface—steady, unsentimental, intact.
The forest, once a gamble to break up the wind and hold the soil, now stands as a sheltering presence. It doesn’t overwhelm the landscape—it sits within it. And the same can be said for the towns around it: not scenic detours or preserved enclaves, but functioning communities that remain deeply embedded in their place. These ten towns near Bessey aren’t trying to impress. That’s part of their value.
10. Arnold: A Quiet Retreat Along the South Loup River
Arnold, a charming village with a population of around 600, embodies the peaceful essence of rural Nebraska. Nestled along the South Loup River, it offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and enjoying serene riverside picnics.
The community thrives on agriculture, with local farms and ranches forming the backbone of its modest economy. What sets Arnold apart is its tranquil environment, far removed from the noise and rush of city life, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solace amid nature.
The town’s seclusion is accentuated by its open landscapes and star-filled night skies that create a sense of calm and connection with the natural world. With friendly locals and a slow-paced lifestyle, Arnold invites visitors and new residents alike to experience the simplicity and beauty of small-town living.
Where is Arnold?
Located in the heart of Custer County, Arnold sits in central Nebraska, approximately 40 miles northwest of Broken Bow. Its secluded charm stems from its remote setting amidst rolling Sandhills and the gently flowing South Loup River.
The town is accessible via State Highway 92, which meanders through the scenic countryside, enhancing the sense of departure from urban areas. The journey to Arnold is a picturesque drive that further immerses you in the tranquil landscapes, making the destination feel like a true retreat into nature’s quiet embrace.
9. Mullen: The Hidden Gem of Hooker County
Mullen, home to approximately 500 residents, is a peaceful village that serves as a gateway to Nebraska’s breathtaking Sandhills and the nearby forests. Known as the “Golf Capital of Nebraska,” it boasts the renowned Sand Hills Golf Club, attracting golf enthusiasts seeking a world-class experience in a secluded setting.
The town’s economy revolves around ranching and agriculture, reflecting its deep-rooted connection to the land. Mullen’s seclusion is part of its allure, offering an escape into vast open spaces where the horizon stretches endlessly and the pace of life slows to a gentle rhythm.
The surrounding natural beauty provides ample opportunities for hunting, fishing, and exploring untouched prairie landscapes, making it a haven for outdoor adventurers and solitude seekers alike.
Where is Mullen?
Nestled in Hooker County in north-central Nebraska, Mullen lies along Highway 2, known as the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway. Its remote location is accentuated by the rolling Sandhills that envelop the town, creating a natural barrier from the bustle of larger cities.
The nearest urban center is North Platte, about 70 miles to the south, emphasizing Mullen’s quiet isolation. Visitors can reach Mullen via a scenic drive through expansive grasslands and undulating dunes, a journey that underscores the town’s tranquil remoteness and the untouched beauty of its surroundings.
8. Hidden Cabins of Bessey: Living Within the Trees
Tucked away within the lush greenery of Bessey National Forest are secluded cabins that offer an immersive natural living experience unlike any other. These hidden retreats are not part of any bustling town but are individual dwellings scattered amidst the trees, providing residents and visitors with unparalleled privacy.
Life here revolves around the rhythms of the forest, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and observing wildlife right at your doorstep. The absence of urban industries underscores the simplicity of living among the pines, where the tallest hand-planted forest in the United States becomes your backyard.
This secluded lifestyle attracts those yearning for a deep connection with nature and a peaceful sanctuary away from the modern world’s distractions.
Where are the Hidden Cabins of Bessey?
Situated within the expansive Bessey Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest, these cabins are located in central Nebraska, near the tiny village of Halsey. The seclusion comes from being enveloped by miles of forestland, far from major highways and towns.
Access is primarily through Forest Road 212, leading adventurers deeper into the tranquil heart of the forest. The journey to these cabins is an escape in itself, as towering pine trees replace open roads, guiding you into a serene world where the sounds of nature take precedence over the clamor of city life.
7. Seneca: Historic Charm Amidst Nebraska’s Wilderness
With a population of just over 30 residents, Seneca is a tiny village steeped in history and enveloped by the tranquil wilderness of Nebraska’s Sandhills. The quiet streets and historic buildings echo tales of the past, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
While amenities are minimal, the town’s simplicity is part of its charm, inviting visitors to slow down and appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
Outdoor activities abound, with the nearby Middle Loup River providing opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Seneca’s seclusion makes it a perfect spot for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of untouched prairie landscapes.
Where is Seneca?
Located in Thomas County, Seneca sits along U.S. Route 2, but its remoteness is pronounced due to the vast stretches of Sandhills that surround it. The village is approximately 50 miles northwest of Broken Bow, enhancing its sense of isolation.
The absence of large urban centers nearby contributes to its secluded atmosphere. Travelers can reach Seneca by following the scenic Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway, where the rolling dunes and open skies accompany you on a journey into Nebraska’s quiet wilderness.
6. Anselmo: Serenity in the Shadow of the Forest
Anselmo, a peaceful village of about 150 residents, offers serenity amidst the scenic backdrop of forested hills and open plains. The community thrives on agriculture, with local farms and ranches dotting the landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, hiking, and exploring the gently rolling hills that characterize the area.
Anselmo’s secluded nature stems from its quiet streets and expansive natural surroundings that create a sense of calm and escape. The absence of commercial bustle allows residents and visitors to experience the simple pleasures of rural life, making Anselmo an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility.
Where is Anselmo?
Situated in Custer County, Anselmo is located approximately 17 miles north of Broken Bow along Highway 21. The village’s remote setting is enhanced by the surrounding open spaces and the proximity to the forested areas of Bessey National Forest.
Its location away from major highways contributes to its peaceful atmosphere. Visitors traveling to Anselmo can enjoy a leisurely drive through picturesque farmland and rolling hills, further accentuating the town’s secluded charm and the natural beauty of central Nebraska.
5. Brewster: The Quiet Heart of Blaine County
Brewster, with a population of just under 20 people, is the epitome of small-town tranquility in Nebraska. As the county seat of Blaine County, it offers a quaint charm with its historic courthouse and close-knit community.
The town is surrounded by vast grasslands and rolling hills, providing a serene environment for those who appreciate the quiet solitude of rural life.
While amenities are limited, Brewster’s simplicity is a draw for visitors looking to unplug and experience the unspoiled beauty of the Sandhills region. The town’s seclusion allows for incredible stargazing opportunities, with clear night skies unpolluted by city lights.
Where is Brewster?
Located in the central part of Nebraska, Brewster sits at the junction of Nebraska Highway 7 and Nebraska Highway 91. Its remote location is underscored by the expansive prairie that stretches in all directions.
The town is approximately 70 miles north of Kearney, with miles of open road enhancing the feeling of isolation. Reaching Brewster involves a scenic drive through the heart of the Sandhills, making the journey itself a peaceful retreat from the busier highways and urban centers.
4. Purdum: A Secluded Rancher’s Paradise
Purdum is a small, unincorporated community that epitomizes the seclusion of Nebraska’s ranching country. With a sparse population scattered across expansive ranchlands, Purdum offers vast open spaces and an authentic rural lifestyle.
The community revolves around cattle ranching, and the wide-open prairie provides a serene backdrop for those who live and work there. Without the distractions of urban development, Purdum’s isolation allows residents and visitors to embrace the natural rhythms of the land fully.
The simplicity of life here, coupled with the vastness of the surrounding landscape, makes it a true paradise for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Purdum?
Situated in Blaine County, Purdum lies along Nebraska Highway 91, nestled amidst the expansive Sandhills region. Its secluded location is characterized by the miles of ranchlands that separate it from larger towns. The nearest significant community is Dunning, about 20 miles to the east.
Accessing Purdum involves traveling through rolling hills and grass-covered dunes, enhancing the sense of remoteness. The journey offers sweeping vistas and a peaceful drive that underscores the tranquil isolation of this hidden rancher’s haven.
3. Dunning: A Tranquil Hamlet Amidst the Sandhills
Dunning, a quaint village with approximately 100 residents, is nestled amidst the vast natural grasslands of Nebraska’s Sandhills. The community is characterized by its friendly atmosphere and the simplicity of rural life.
Local activities often revolve around the outdoors, including hiking, bird watching, and exploring the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills. Dunning’s main industries include agriculture and ranching, reflecting its strong ties to the land.
The village’s seclusion provides a peaceful escape where the hustle of modern life feels worlds away, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the quiet harmony of nature.
Where is Dunning?
Located in Blaine County, Dunning sits at the intersection of Nebraska Highways 2 and 91. Its remote setting is accentuated by the expansive Sandhills that envelop the village, creating a natural barrier from urban centers.
The town is roughly 71 miles northeast of North Platte, with the journey highlighting the area’s unspoiled landscapes. Traveling to Dunning offers a scenic drive through gently rolling hills and open skies, reinforcing the village’s secluded ambiance and the allure of its tranquil surroundings.
2. Thedford: Where Prairie Meets Pine in Peaceful Harmony
Thedford, with a population of around 200, is a serene community where the rolling Sandhills blend seamlessly with forested lands. Serving as a hub for the surrounding ranching community, it offers essential services with the charm of small-town Nebraska.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Nebraska National Forest at Halsey, enjoying hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Thedford’s main industries revolve around agriculture and ranching, mirroring the lifestyle of its residents who value the simplicity and solitude of rural living.
The town’s secluded nature is enhanced by its picturesque setting, where prairie grasses sway in the breeze against a backdrop of pine-covered hills.
Where is Thedford?
Situated in Thomas County, Thedford lies at the crossroads of U.S. Highways 83 and 2. Its remote location is accentuated by the vast stretches of the Sandhills and its proximity to the Bessey Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest.
The nearest larger town is North Platte, approximately 70 miles to the south. Accessing Thedford involves a drive through some of Nebraska’s most scenic landscapes, reinforcing its status as a secluded retreat where the prairie meets the pines.
1. Halsey: The Gateway to Nebraska’s Hidden Forest Oasis
Halsey, a tiny village with a population of about 75, sits at the edge of the Bessey National Forest, offering a unique blend of serene landscapes and rural charm. Known as the gateway to Nebraska’s hidden forest oasis, Halsey provides direct access to the largest hand-planted forest in the United States.
Outdoor activities abound, including hiking, camping, horseback riding, and exploring the forest’s lush trails.
The main industries in Halsey revolve around tourism and forestry services, supporting visitors who come to experience the natural beauty of the area. Its seclusion is one of its greatest assets, providing a tranquil environment free from the noise and congestion of larger towns.
Where is Halsey?
Located in central Nebraska within Thomas County, Halsey is accessible via U.S. Highway 2. The village’s secluded setting is deepened by the surrounding Bessey Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest, which envelops it in a canopy of green.
The nearest town with additional amenities is Thedford, about 17 miles to the west. Visitors reaching Halsey travel through the scenic Sandhills, culminating in the unexpected sight of a dense forest emerging from the prairie. This emphasizes Halsey’s unique location where the forest meets the open plains.
