Chimney Butte Ranch

Chimney Butte Ranch is a diverse 474.29± acre property in Dawes County, Nebraska, highlighted by the iconic Chimney Butte and the rugged beauty of the Pine Ridge. Featuring rolling terrain, timbered draws, and exceptional wildlife habitat, it offers outstanding recreational opportunities alongside well-planned grazing infrastructure, CRP acres, and established hay production. Land Located in the heart of the Pine Ridge region of Dawes County, Chimney Butte Ranch offers 474.29± acres of exceptionally diverse terrain, recreation, and income potential. Anchored by the iconic Chimney Butte and conveniently accessed off Bethel Loop Road, this property provides a rare opportunity to own a truly unique and scenic piece of northwest Nebraska.

The ranch features a strong balance of income-producing ground and recreational appeal. There are two active CRP contracts in place, including 47.99± acres generating $3,208 annually through September 30, 2031, and an additional 176.51± acres producing $1,950 annually through September 30, 2037. Complementing the CRP income is a productive 31.21± acre alfalfa field, which generates an additional $2,000 to $4,000 annually. This field not only provides a reliable revenue stream but also serves as a major draw for deer, turkey, elk, and other wildlife. Beyond the CRP and alfalfa production, the property also presents additional income through livestock grazing.

Improvements Water is well established across the property with two wells, one of which is currently in use and services three tire tanks, ensuring consistent and reliable water distribution for livestock. Additional water infrastructure includes a gravity-fed catch system located in the southeast paddock, designed to further support wildlife and grazing needs.

The ranch is thoughtfully designed with four well-defined paddocks, featuring several miles of newer fencing that support efficient rotational grazing. The north paddock has been extensively improved with thousands of planted trees and shrubs, creating exceptional upland bird habitat and long-term wildlife cover. An alfalfa field is separately fenced with its own water source, while the central portion is well-suited for grazing with a primary well and multiple tanks. The southeast paddock, spanning just over 80 acres, further enhances the property with a dedicated water source that supports wildlife and adds to the ranch’s overall diversity.

Recreation Located in Nebraska’s northwestern Pine Ridge region, Dawes County offers exceptional hunting opportunities set within a striking landscape of rugged, pine-covered buttes, deep canyons, and productive creek bottoms. This rare combination of forested ridges and badlands terrain creates ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife species.

The area supports strong populations of mule deer, whitetail deer, and merriam turkey, along with elk presence. Dawes County is particularly well regarded for its quality deer hunting, consistently producing mature bucks due to its diverse mix of ponderosa pine ridges, draws, and fertile river bottoms along the White River.

With its natural cover, varied topography, and reliable wildlife numbers, this region continues to attract hunters and landowners seeking both recreational enjoyment and long-term investment value.

Water/Mineral Rights & Natural Resources All owned convey!

Region & Climate Dawes County, Nebraska features a semi-arid climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cold winters. Average annual precipitation is approximately 17–18 inches, significantly below the U.S. average of 38 inches, and the area periodically experiences drought conditions.

Temperatures typically range from an average low of around 20°F in January to an average high near 86°F in July. Winter months can bring heavy snowfall and occasional blizzards, while spring and summer seasons often produce thunderstorms, strong winds, and occasional severe weather.

On average, Dawes County receives about 48 inches of snow annually, compared to the national average of 28 inches. The region also benefits from approximately 227 sunny days per year, exceeding the U.S. average of 205 days.

Precipitation—occurs on roughly 77 days per year.

History Dawes County, Nebraska, stands out as a premier destination in the scenic Pine Ridge region of the northwestern Panhandle, offering visitors rugged natural beauty, rich Old West history, and authentic small-town charm that defies the stereotype of flat Nebraska landscapes. Nestled among ponderosa pine-covered buttes, deep canyons, and rolling uplands, the county features Nebraska’s oldest state park—Chadron State Park—along with the vast Fort Robinson State Park (shared with Sioux County), the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area, and portions of the Nebraska National Forest. These areas provide exceptional opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives amid dramatic badlands and wide-open spaces.

History enthusiasts are drawn to Fort Robinson, a key site of the Indian Wars where Crazy Horse surrendered and the 1879 Cheyenne Outbreak occurred; today it offers bison and longhorn herds, historic tours, museums, lodging, and summer rodeos. Additional cultural attractions include the Dawes County Historical Museum, Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center, and Museum of the Fur Trade, celebrating pioneer, Native American, and frontier heritage, including the famous 1893 Chadron-to-Chicago 1,000-mile horse race.

Centered in friendly Chadron—home to Chadron State College—Dawes County combines outdoor adventure with modern amenities, affordable living, and a strong sense of community. Promoted jointly with Sioux County under the Discover Northwest Nebraska brand by the Dawes County Travel Board, the area emphasizes uncrowded experiences, longer stays, and genuine Western escapes for road-trippers, families, equestrians, and history buffs. With growing tourism supported by state grants and local events, Dawes County delivers a memorable blend of pine-scented trails, compelling stories, and Nebraska’s most surprising landscapes—truly where history meets the horizon in the heart of the American West.

Location Nestled in the rolling pine hills of northwest Nebraska, Dawes County offers a rare combination of scenic beauty and working land opportunity. Just minutes from Chadron and near the renowned Nebraska National Forest, this area is highly sought after for its strong ranching potential, abundant wildlife, and recreational appeal. Convenient highway access connects you to Rapid City and the Black Hills, making it an ideal blend of seclusion and accessibility.