This smaller unit is positioned in the north-central part of the state, bordering South Dakota. While there is a good amount of public land available, the best elk habitats and hunting spots are primarily on private property. A small yet robust herd of elk resides in this area, with almost all encounters and harvests occurring on private lands. To improve chances of success, it is advisable to secure private access or work with an outfitter. Most elk taken from this unit are typically found in two main areas: one is located just west of Valentine, between the Niobrara River and the town of Nenzei, while the other is situated on the far eastern side, also between the Niobrara River and Sparks.
August 1, 2026 – October 31, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antlerless | — | Draw |
| 2025 draw odds 1:2.9. Yes, see below (special unit restrictions). |
August 1, 2026 – January 31, 2027
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antlerless | — | Draw |
| Eligibility: Landowner 2025 draw odds 1:1.3. Yes, see below (special unit restrictions). |
September 1, 2026 – October 3, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Either-sex | Archery | Draw |
| Special Unit Restrictions: Yes, see below. Access permit required to hunt Fort Robinson SP and Fort Niobrara NWR. |
September 21, 2026 – October 31, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Either-sex | — | Draw |
| Special Unit Restrictions: Yes, see below. Access permit required to hunt Fort Robinson SP and Fort Niobrara NWR. |
November 1, 2026 – January 31, 2027
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antlerless | — | Draw |
| 2025 draw odds 1:4.8. Yes, see below (special unit restrictions). |
December 16, 2026 – December 31, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Either-sex | Archery | Draw |
| Special Unit Restrictions: Yes, see below. Access permit required to hunt Fort Robinson SP and Fort Niobrara NWR. |
December 16, 2026 – December 31, 2026
| Opportunity | Method | Availability | License or Permit | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Either-sex | — | Draw |
| Special Unit Restrictions: Yes, see below. Access permit required to hunt Fort Robinson SP and Fort Niobrara NWR. |
| Residency | Eligibility | Availability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident | Landowner | — | $55.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Resident | — | — | $210.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Nonresident | Landowner | — | $602.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Residency | Eligibility | Availability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident | Landowner | Draw | $55.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Resident | — | Draw | $210.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| Nonresident | Landowner | Draw | $602.00Application fee $11.00Application fee included in priceNonrefundable |
| — | — | Draw | —Application fee $11.00Nonrefundable |