Only in the Sandhills would you fi nd a national forest that’s mostly grass. “Only” 5,000 acres of Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest are wooded with Eastern Red Cedar, Scotch, Jack and Ponderosa pine. Th e other 110,000 acres are sandhills prairie.

The result is a stunning blend of scenery and wildlife.
The area is open to hunting in season, off ering excellent upland game bird hunting, waterfowl, and limited deer hunting.
Other popular activities include fi shing, hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and bird watching. Merritt Reservoir is nearby, off ering a variety of water recreation. Observational blinds are available March 15-May 31. Ranger station hours are Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Year-round camping is available at Steer Creek Campground, a beautiful and secluded site. Campers say the only sounds you’re likely to hear are birdsong, the occasional lowing of cattle from a nearby herd, and the whisper of breeze through the surrounding pines. Bluejay Trail is a one-mile loop for hikers.
The forest is southwest of Valentine. Go 30 miles west of Valentine on Highway 20 to Nenzel, then 18 miles south on
Highway S16-F. (402) 823-4154.