Valentine, Nebraska: Heart of the Sandhills Hunting Paradise

Valentine is the undisputed capital of the Nebraska Sandhills and one of the finest hunting destinations in the entire Midwest. With a population of roughly 2,700, this Cherry County seat punches well above its weight when it comes to outdoor recreation. More than 200,000 acres of public hunting land lie within 30 minutes of town, including national wildlife refuges, national forest, and state WMAs. Whether you are chasing whitetail, mule deer, turkey, or sharp-tailed grouse, Valentine puts you in the heart of it all.

The Town

Valentine sits along the Niobrara River, which was designated a National Scenic River and attracts thousands of canoeists and kayakers each summer. The town has a charming main street with locally owned shops, a movie theater, and a genuine Western feel. Cherry County is the largest county in Nebraska, covering over 6,000 square miles, and Valentine is its only incorporated town of significant size. The surrounding ranch culture runs deep here, and hospitality is not an act.

Where to Eat

Valentine has several good dining options for a town its size. Local steakhouses serve Nebraska beef that was likely raised within miles of the restaurant. The Peppermill is a longtime local favorite. Several casual restaurants along Main Street offer burgers, sandwiches, and homestyle cooking. During hunting season, the restaurants are accustomed to groups of out-of-state hunters and welcome the business.

Where to Stay

Lodging options in Valentine range from comfortable to memorable. The Niobrara Lodge offers clean, updated rooms right in town. Niobrara Riverview Retreats provides cabin rentals along the river for hunters who want more space and privacy. Lord Ranch Resort south of town offers an upscale ranch-stay experience with guided hunting available. Several other motels along Highway 20 and Highway 83 fill up during peak deer season, so book early.

Where to Hunt

This is where Valentine truly shines. The Valentine National Wildlife Refuge covers over 71,000 acres of Sandhills lakes, marshes, and grassland. Hunting for deer, upland birds, and waterfowl is permitted in designated areas. The rolling grass-covered dunes and wetland complexes create ideal whitetail habitat.

McKelvie National Forest lies just south of Valentine and offers over 115,000 acres of public access. The forest is a unique mix of planted pines and native Sandhills grassland that holds both whitetail and mule deer. Turkey populations are strong throughout the forest, and prairie chicken and sharp-tailed grouse inhabit the open grasslands.

Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge just east of town protects 19,000 acres along the Niobrara River and is home to bison, elk, and deer. Hunting access is limited to specific dates and species, so check current regulations.

The Sandhills themselves produce some of the largest whitetails in Nebraska. The combination of remote habitat, abundant food sources, and low hunting pressure allows bucks to reach full maturity. This is trophy whitetail country.

Why Valentine Is a Must-Visit

Valentine offers what few hunting destinations can match: massive public land access, diverse species, genuine small-town hospitality, and scenery that will stay with you long after the hunt is over. The Sandhills are one of the most unique landscapes in North America, and Valentine puts you right in the middle of them. Plan a long weekend at minimum. You will want to come back.