Nebraska's Sandhills region is one of the largest grass-stabilized dune systems in the world, covering over 19,000 square miles of rolling sandhill terrain in the north-central part of the state. While the Sandhills themselves are predominantly private ranch land, the adjacent Nebraska National Forest, the only hand-planted national forest in the country, and several state recreation areas provide public riding access in terrain that is unique to the Great Plains.
Nebraska OHV Laws
Nebraska requires OHV registration through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for operating on public land. The registration must be current and the decal displayed on the vehicle. Nebraska OHV registration is annual.
Nebraska requires helmets for OHV riders under 18. No adult helmet requirement for off-road use in Nebraska. No driver's license is required for off-road OHV operation. Individual facilities and managed areas may have additional requirements beyond the state minimum.
Where to Ride in Nebraska
Nebraska National Forest, Bessey Ranger District (Halsey)
The Bessey Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest near Halsey in Thomas County is the most historically unique public land in Nebraska. The forest was hand-planted beginning in 1902 in the middle of the Sandhills, and its ponderosa pine and eastern red cedar groves now cover thousands of acres of former open sandhills. The Bessey Recreation Complex has OHV trail access through the planted forest on sandy trails. The character of riding through planted pines on the rolling Sandhills terrain is genuinely unlike anything else in the Midwest.
Lake McConaughy Area (Ogallala)
Lake McConaughy, Nebraska's largest reservoir, has surrounding BLM land and state recreation area land with OHV access on specific designated routes. The terrain around the reservoir is open plains with sandy beaches and grassland, providing a different character from the forested Sandhills. Check Nebraska Game and Parks for current designated OHV areas around Lake McConaughy before visiting.
Scotts Bluff Area (Gering)
The Scotts Bluff region in western Nebraska has BLM land adjacent to the National Monument with OHV access on designated routes through high plains terrain. The dramatic bluff formations of the North Platte River Valley provide a distinctive backdrop for riding in this part of the state.
Practical Tips for Nebraska Riding
Nebraska riding season is spring through fall, with best conditions in May, June, September, and October. Summer heat on the open plains is significant. The Sandhills and Bessey Forest terrain is most accessible in dry conditions, as sandy soils become soft and difficult when wet. Wind is a constant presence in Nebraska and can be a significant factor on exposed rides. Carry sufficient water for any ride in the open plains or sandhills terrain.
The Right Bike for Nebraska
Nebraska's sandy terrain naturally suits electric bikes with good low-end torque. The Altis Sigma or Altis Omega both handle the Bessey Forest sandy trails well. For riders exploring the broader Sandhills and plains terrain, the Altis Omega's longer range is useful in the large open spaces between access points. VoroMotors is available seven days a week to help you plan the right setup for Nebraska riding.