05/01/2026
“Let’s go to Halsey this weekend”
I’ve said it probably 100 times myself. Before moving to the Sandhills my family would come to Bessey National Forest twice a year for the past 30 or so years. The recreation that Bessey offers is a glorious privilege that many of us take for granted and don’t think twice about it. The question I would like to pose to you is, what makes “Halsey” or “Bessey National Forest” so great? Because it’s more than just miles of sandy trails, 90,000+ acres of hunting ground, stocked fish pond and groomed campsites.
What makes “Halsey” so great is the people. Yes, we make new friends at the campsites and while we are out enjoying the many acres of public ground, but I’m talking about the local people that live here 365 days a year. The ranchers, the teachers, the bank and restaurant employees, the truckers, the volunteer firefighters, and all of the spouses associated with these outstanding individuals. These people are the salt of the earth and will do anything to help when you’re in need. They may look at you cross eyed because of the number on your license plate, but they are the backbone of the Sandhills. They all jump in to help when the fire pager goes off, or when you’re a couple bolts short of finishing your project, or when a disaster strikes (large or small).
When those of us say “let’s go to Halsey” just remember there is a whole community that lives their daily lives in this place where you come to play. We want you to enjoy the Sandhills for the few days that you’re here, but please tread lightly. Tread lightly on the ground that is so fragile and resilient at the same time. Tread lightly and remember the burden that you could potentially put on the local volunteer fire and EMS responders due to negligence on your part. We are leaving our full time jobs to answer the 911 call that you placed.
The local small businesses that are here are only here because of YOU. The motels, the convenience stores, the restaurants and the grocery stores are here because of outsiders coming to the Sandhills. Every thriving small town in America is successful because of outsider money. Whether that’s a factory, an airport, a school system or a National Forest, they all rely on outsider money to thrive. So the next time you’re stocking up for your weekend at Halsey, think about what you could buy locally to support the small economy that is Halsey. Because those locals in Halsey are trying to make a living in the area that you come to play.
Sandhill Suttons hopes to be here to serve your needs for years to come!!
Sincerely, Thank you to our customers!!
