Tuesday, July 17, 2007

ATV / OHV Trails in the South Atlantic States

I have included Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia in the South Atlantic States. These State Parks and Forest have a nice variety of ATV / OHV Parks.

Florida
Florida has Division of Forestry Tate's Hell State Forest. Off Road vehicles and and all-terrain vehicles (ATV's) have more that 150 miles of designated trails on existing forest roads. Trails have assorted ecosystems including cypress/titi swamps, blackwater rivers and pine flatwoods. For more information call: (850) 697-3734 or Email: Tate's Hell State Forest or check out this websites. http://www.fl-dof.com/state_forests/thsf_ohv_index.html


The Withlacoochee State Forest in Florida has a ATV / Motorcycle Area - Croom Motorcycle Area: Buttgenbach Mine Campground. The Croom Motorcycle Area is 2600-acres and campers may ride from the campground into the surrounding off-road riding area.
There are 50 campsites with electricity- no pets allowed- designated for off-road motorcycle and ATV (all-terrain vehicle) use.

Georgia


In Georgia there are many trails in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests - most of the trails listed below can be found at this website: http://www.fs.fed.us/conf/.

Windy Gap Trail is a motorcycle only trail, it is steep, only experienced riders should go on this trail. The Milma Creek OHV Trail and the Tibbs OHV Trail is for ATV's, motorcycles and mountain bikes. Trail http://www.fs.fed.us/conf/rec/ohv/windy-gap.shtml

Town Creek Bike Trail is opened to Motorcycles, ATV's and Bicycles, it is located in the Oconee National Forest. You can contact Oconee Ranger District, 1199 Madison Road, Eatonton GA 31024 (706) 485-3180 for more information.

Beasly Knob is a very steep and difficult riding area near Blairsville in the Chattahoochee National Forest.

Davenport ORV Area near Blairsville, GA has trails for ATV's and Motorcycles. For more information: contact Brasstown Ranger District, Hwy 19/129S, P.O. Box 9, Blairsville, GA 30512 or call (706) 745-6928.

Locust Stake ORV Area, the Moates Knob ORV Area and Clarkesville, GA. Trails are for dirt bikes, motorcycles and ATV's. Variety of trails for easy to difficult. For More Information: Contact the Chattooga Ranger District, Highway 197 North, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523 or call (706) 754-6221

Oakey Mountain OHV Trail in Clayton in the Northeast part of GA offers this trail. Be careful, trail is rocky, steep and lots of blind curves. It would be a good idea to call before going to see if this trail is still open as the rains have caused destruction to the trails, there is a possibility that it will be permanently shut down. US Forest Service (706) 782-3320

Rocky Flats OHV Trail offers a trail for Motorcycles, ATV's, and 4x4's. Contact the Cohutta Ranger District, 401 Old Ellijay Road, Chatsworth, GA 30705, or call (706) 695-6736

Rock Creek OHV Trail is for Motorcycles, Mountain Bicycles, and ATV's and the Tatum Lead OHV Trail Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles, Motorbikes, ATVs, and Mountain Bicycles. Contact the Conasauga Ranger District 3941 Highway 76, Chatsworth, GA 30705 Telephone: (706) 695-6736

Whissenhunt ORV Area near Dahlonega in northern Georgia is suitable for ATV's and motorcycles, no 4 x 4's or trucks. There are many trails that make this trail system one you'll want to visit. Trails include: Wissenhut Loop, Sally Free Trail, Ridge Top Trail, Rattlesnake Trail, Peggy Creek Connector,Parking Lot Trail, Hightower Loop, Hightower Connector, West Cane Creek Trail, Clay Creek Trail, Double Bridges OHV Trail, Double Bridges Connector, Copperhead Trail, Blizzard Trail. For more information contact Toccoa Ranger District, 6050 Appalachian Highway, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513 or call (706) 632-3031

The Houston Valley OHV Trail System near LaFayette, GA also consist of several trails Blackwell Gap Trail, Cape Harte Trail, Dry Creek Connector, Dry Crook Trail, Houston Valley Road, Houston Valley Branch, Gorden Springs Road, Gorden Springs Connector, Hudon Loop, Hudon Spur, McCutcheon Cove Connector, McCutcheon Cove Loop, Molly Houston Trail, Molly Houston Trail Connector, North Loop, Old Spring Box Trail, Parking Lot Connector, Plantation Ridge Connector, Plantation Ridge Loop, Plantation Ridge Trail, Rock Garden Trail, Trammel Loop, Trammel Loop Connector.

Maryland


State park rules require your ATV to have a Maryland Department of Natural Resources off-road vehicle permit that costs $15. All riders are required to wear a helmet and eye protection. No riders under 12 years old. Three Wheel ATV's are not allowed in any of Maryland's trails.

Potomac-Garrett State Forest in Garrett County, 1431 Potomac Camp Road, Oakland MD (301) 334-2038 Trails include: Piney Mountain Trail, Garrett Trail, Potomac River Trail, Backbone Mountain Trail,

Savage River State Forest in Garrett County, 127 Headquarters Lane, Grantsville, MD 21536(301)895-5759 Trails include: Meadow Mountain Trail, Poplar Lick Trail, Marqraff Plantation Trail, Negro Mountain Trail

Green Ridge State Forest in Allegany County, 28700 Headquarters Drive NE, Flintstone MD 21530 (301) 478-3124 - East Valley/Strafford Trail

Pocomoke State Forest in Worcester County, 3461 Worcester Highway, Snow Hill MD (410) 632-2566

This website provides information on all the preceding parks. http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/orv.html

North Carolina

Check out this website for North Carolina's ORV area's. http://www.ncnatural.com/NCUSFS/

Badin Lake ORV - Northeast of Albemarleear, these trails are for ATV's, dirt bike's and 4WD

Brown Mountain ORV - near Morganton, NC has a trail for motorcycles and ATV and also Mountain biker, there are 40 miles of rocky single and double tracks.

Roy E Taylor ORV - Wayehutta ATV Area - Cullowhee, NC, east of Sylva, these trails are for ATV's and Dirt bikes. The trails are considered moderate to hard.

Upper Tellico ORV - located 13 miles north of Murphy, NC in eastern North Carolina. This trail system is located on the Tennessee state line. 8000 acres are provided for all OHV users from motorcycle to 4 x 4's. Many of the trails are steep, rough, and challenging.


South Carolina

Manchester State Park - Sumter, SC - riding is restricted to loops, no riding in the forest at this time. There is a daily fee or yearly permit and it is highly recommended to purchase one as the rangers do ticket you for not having one.

Wambaw Cycle Trails - McClellanville, SC is located in the southeast part of the state. This trail is maintained by Family Riders Motorcycle Club of Charleston. Trail is designed for motorcycles but OHVs under 50 inches wide and mountain bikes also enjoy the trail. There is a $5 per day / $50 per year fee.

Virginia

The South Pedlar ATV Trail System is open to four-wheel ATVs (no 3-wheel) , motorbikes, and mountain bikes. The trails and terrain is full of variety. South Pedlar trails include: Terrapin, Rattlesnake, Piney, Otter, Lone Mountain and Lasso. There is a $5 per day fee, helmets are required and no children under the age of 12 are allowed on the trails.

Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trail complex in Edinburg, VA and Tasker's Gap ATV/OHV complex. Contact the Lee Ranger District, 109 Molineu Road, Edinburg, VA 22824 Telephone: (540) 984-4101 http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/gwj/lee/recreation/ohv/index.shtml

West Virginia

Hatfield-McCoy Trail System - located in the southern area of the state has several different trails in about 9 different counties. Created especially for economic growth through tourism it is ATV friendly country. This award winning trail system is professionally managed, there is something here for every type of OHV and every type of rider. For more information call 1-800-592-2217, P.O. Box 539, Lyburn, WV 25632 http://www.trailsheaven.com/


Thursday, July 12, 2007

Mid Altantic ATV Trails on State Forest Lands

New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey are considered the middle Atlantic in the Northeast region of the United States. Pennsylvania has a nice selection of state forest ATV trails while New York and New Jersey struggle with legal and environmental issues within the state parks and forest.


New Jersey

There are not many ATV Trails that I could find in New Jersey, they seem to have a lack of funds this year and the state park program was the first to go. I did find a riding area 30 miles east of Philadelphia: New Jersey Off Road Vehicle Park, Inc. PO Box 0501, Chatsworth, NJ 08019-0501 Telephone: (609) 726-0900 http://www.njorvp.org/



New York

New York is another state that seems to be having trouble with a lack of trails in the state park and forests. I did find that Lewis County in New York is ATV friendly! The towns of Croghan, Denmark, Diana, Grieg, Leyden, Lyonsdale, Martinburg, Montague, New Bremen, Pinckney, Watson and West Turin all have open roads within the cities. Check out this website: http://www.lewiscountychamber.org/atv.php

Aldrich Pond Wild Forest/Streeter Lake Area, ATV Trails near Fine, NY (Legally Designated "Motor Vehicle Road" with authorized ATV access in Aldrich Pond Wild Forest). For State Forest Riding Info contact: DEC Forester John Gibbs (315) 265-3099. Local club contact for Aldrich is Adirondack ATV Riders Club Inc., Bob Swanson (315) 543-2073, e-mail Lisa Nortz lnortz@northnet.org website: http://www.adirondackatv.org.

St. Lawrence County, New York : Trails are open in the Townships of Parishville, Brasher and Harrisville. Contact Parishville Area ATV Club or http://www.geocities.com/st_law_co_atv_assoc/slcaa.html for trail information.

Brasher Falls Unit Management Project - multiple access roads - great challenging trails- 18,000+ acres - all roads open to ATV's with few exceptions. And these are posted. Located between the towns of Brasher Falls, North Lawrence and Helena.

Knapps Station State Forest: Old abandoned railroad bed without tracks. Access through Shawville Rd, Munson Rd, and Crane Rd in the town of Stockholm.

Buckton State Forest: Mostly flat trails and loops, relatively dry riding. Access through Priest Rd & Converse Rd in Ft Jackson.

CC Dam/Shady City/Brasher Iron Works: Mostly flat trails with lots of old logging roads to explore/lots of beaver dams & swamps. Access through Shady City off of Route 55. Access also from Smith Rd in the town of Brasher. Warning: The DEC Forest Rangers and the NY State Police are constantly patrolling the above areas on ATVs. It is strongly advised to wear the appropriate gear, have your vehicle registered and insured, and be sure that 10-15 year old have completed an ATV safety course.

The Deer River Road in Helena, NY has been opened by the town of Brasher for ATV use. This will provide access to Smith Road. Any questions can be emailed to Stephen Kotzen (skotzen@twcny.rr.com)

Tug Hill Region (Adirondack foothills):Many ATV-legal DEC and Town roads/trails open to the public. For a map, Send $6 to the Lewis County ATV Assn. Inc, PO Box 492, Constableville NY 13325.

Pennsylvania

Summer Trails Only
Martin Hill Trail in Bedford County, PA is an 18 mile trail. Trail located on Route 326 two miles south of Rainsburg. Contact: Buchanan State Forest, 440 Buchanan Trail, McConnellsburg, PA 17233, Telephone: (717) 485-3148. Sideling Hill Trail in Fulton County, NY is a 15 miles trail in the Wells Tannery area. Contact: Buchanan State Forest, 440 Buchanan Trail, McConnellsburg, PA 17233. http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/FORESTRY/stateforests/buchanan.aspx

Potter County, PA- 43 mile loop trail located south of Denton Hill State Park. Access to the trail is from Lyman Run State Park, on SR 44 north of Cherry Springs, or the intersection of Rock Run Road and the Ridge Trail (ATV trail). Registered Class II ATV's are permitted on this trail that are less than 58" in width and less than 1,200 pounds. Contact: Susquehannock State Forest, PO Box 673, Coudersport, PA 16915 Telephone: (814) 274-3600

http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/stateforests/susquehannock.aspx

Dixon R. Miller Recreation Area in Monroe County, PA - 13 miles of trails. Access is from Route 115, go 5 miles south of I-80. Contact: Delaware State Forest, HC 1 Box 95A, Swiftwater, PA 18370 Telephone: (570) 895-4000 http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/FORESTRY/stateforests/delaware.aspx

Maple Run Tract - Pike County, PA - 8 miles of trail. Access is from a parking area on Route 402 approximately 2 miles north of the village of Pecks Pond. Registered Class II ATV's are permitted on this trail. Contact: Delaware State Forest, HC 1 Box 95A, Swiftwater, PA 18370 Telephone: (570) 895-4000 http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/FORESTRY/stateforests/delaware.aspx

Summer & Winter Trails - Trails do close for a short time, contact office for exact dates

Burnt Mills Trail in Pike County, PA - 7 miles of trails. Access is from a parking area on Route 402 one mile south of Porters Lake. Registered Class II ATV's are permitted on this trail. Contact: Delaware State Forest, HC 1 Box 95A, Swiftwater, PA 18370 Telephone: (570) 895-4000 http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/FORESTRY/stateforests/delaware.aspx

Adams & Cumberland Counties- Part of the trail system is shared with snowmobiles when there is sufficient snowfall. The trail is located between Big Flat and Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Contact: Michaux State Forest, 10099 Lincoln Way East, Fayetteville, PA 17222 Telephone: (717) 352-2211 http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/stateforests/michaux.aspx

Snyder & Union Counties, PA- 7 miles trails. Access is at the Jacks Mountain Trailhead located along Route 235 three miles south of Glen Iron. The trail includes the East Kettle Road which has been closed to other types of motor vehicles. Registered Class II ATV's are permitted on this trail.Contact: Bald Eagle State Forest, 18865 Old Turnpike Rd, Millmont, PA 17845Phone: (570) 922-3344

The Whiskey Springs ATV Trail in Clinton County, PA.
NOTICE - The Whiskey Springs ATV Trail is closed for the rest of the summer season due to the Dominion Gas Transmission Pipeline project. Check winter dates CLOSED
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/FORESTRY/stateforests/sproul.aspx

The Bloody Skillet ATV riding area, located in Centre County, consists of 37 trail miles off SR 144 approximately 18 miles north of Snow Shoe. Turn right onto DeHaas Road and travel 5 miles south to the Northern Terminus Trailhead. Contact: Sproul State Forest, 15187 Renovo Road, Renovo, PA 17764 Phone: (570) 923-6011 http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/FORESTRY/stateforests/sproul.aspx

Lycoming County Trails- 17 miles of trail. Trails are located near Haneyville and include the Button Road and a network of wooded trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's. Access to the trail is from a parking area located at the former parking area located at the CCC Camp along Route 44 one mile south of Haneyville. Contact: Tiadaghton State Forest, 423 East Central Avenue, South Williamsport, PA 17702 Telephone: (570) 327-3450 http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/FORESTRY/stateforests/tiadaghton.aspx



Allegheny National Forest


Marienville ATV/Bike Trail- located along State Route 66 about 15 miles southwest of Kane, and 11 miles northeast of Marienville.

Rocky Gap ATV Trail - located southwest of Warren along SR 3005, also known as Route 337, the Tidioute-Warren Road

Willow Creek ATV Trail - located along Forest Road 137, approximately 2 miles south of State Road 346, 11 miles west of Bradford.























Tuesday, July 10, 2007

New England State Parks with ATV & OHV Trails

The Northeastern region of the United State is referred to as New England. It encompasses the sates of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. In these states the winters usually bring out the snowmobiles which is also considered a OHV. The parks listed on my pages are usually State Parks, US Forest Areas or City or County run. If you would like me to list one in any of my pages, please email me the information.


Connecticut
Pachaug State Forest in Voluntown has over 22,000 acres of public land with many miles of roads and trails available for the shared enjoyment of hikers, snowmobilers, motorcyclists, and equestrians. OHV are very limited as to where you might go, the motorcycle trails encompass state and town roads, so vehicles must be registered, street legal and drivers must be licensed. Check out http://ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2716&q=325298 for more information.



Cockaponset State Forest in Haddam located 3 miles west of Chester on Route 148 offers snowmobiling during the winter. Shenipsit State Forest in Stafford off Route 190 also has snowmobiling and both have opportunities for dirt bike enthusiasts to participate in privately-organized enduro races once or twice a year. These competitive events are usually just one day events and are sponsored by a regional motorcycle club. Motorcycles must be registered, street legal and drivers must be licensed.

Massachusetts

Savoy Mountain State Forest has approximately 32 miles of ORV trails, old logging roads suitable for motorcycles and ATVs in this remote, high elevation area. 413-663-8469 (From Route 2 summit, south on Central Shaft Rd., follow signs) CLOSED


Beartown State Forest (Lee, Great Barrington and Monterey) contact: (413)528-0904
Approximately 25 miles of ORV trails suitable for motorcycles or ATVs, call (413) 528-0904


October Mountain State Forest (Lee, Lenox, Washington and Becket) approximately 30 miles of ORV trails suitable for motorcycles or ATVs, call (413) 243-1778


Pittsfield State Forest (Pittsfield, Lanesboro and Hancock) approximately 36 miles of ORV trails suitable for motorcycles or ATVs, call (413) 442-8992


Tolland State Forest (Tolland, Sandisfield and Otis) approximately 15 miles of ORV trails suitable for MGL c. 90 registered motorcycles (motorcycles registered and equipped to ride on roads) (413) 269-6002.


Southeastern Massachusetts – Freetown-Fall River State Forest and F. Gilbert Hills, Wrentham and Franklin State Forests are open to ORV use through the partnership of the Pilgrim Sands Trail Riders and King Philip Trail Riders who help to maintain the trails for all visitors. For more detailed information, trail maps and directions go to www.mass.gov/dcr/forparks.htm


Georgetown-Rowley State Forest - approximately 5 miles of trails, abandoned roads in this small, quiet forest close to I-95 - (508) 887-5931 (Route 95 north, Route 97 west, look for sign) CLOSED


Freetown-Fall River State Forest (Freetown and Fall River) (508) 644-5522
Approximately 25 miles of singe track trails for the expert rider. Motorcycles only.


F. Gilbert Hills, Wrentham and Franklin State Forests (Foxboro, Wrentham and Franklin) (508)543-9084 approximately 8 miles of single track motorcycle trail in each of the three forests. Best suited to intermediate to expert riders. Motorcycles only.


This website gives directions, rules, tips, etc for all Massachusetts OVH parks http://www.mass.gov/dcr/recreate/orv.htm

Maine

Most of the ATV trails located throughout Maine are on private land and are maintained by local clubs. Cooperative agreements between private landowners, ATV clubs, and the Bureau's ATV Program are key to the success of the trail system.


Many of the Public Reserved Lands road systems in Maine are open to ATV use. There are also several state-owned or leased abandoned rail beds that are available for multiple use. Aroostook Valley Trail, Bangor and Aroostook Trail, and the Jay to Farmington Trail which are all owned by the Bureau of Parks and Lands. Mt. Blue, Turner, and Summerhaven use areas are also available for ATV use. All three are maintained by the ATV Program. Check out this website, it is very extensive and helpful! http://www.maine.gov/doc/parks/programs/ATV/atv.html


New Hampshire

In New Hampshire ATVs, snowmobiles and trail bikes must be registered with the Fish and Game Department to access the state's ATV and Trail Bike trails. Most of the trails are closed from snow-melt to May 23 for "mud season".

New Hampshire's Berlin ATV Park near Jericho Lake is fairly new and still growing. Pisgah State Park in Winchester has approximately 20 miles of trails to explore.

Also in New Hampshire, The Division of Parks and Recreation, Bureau of Trails manages approximately 300 miles of Rail Trails. These are multiple use recreation trails for equestrians, hiking, biking , snowmobiles and some do allow ATV's and motorcycles. http://www.nhtrails.org http://www.nhatv.com/Maps/Maps.asp and http://www.nhtrails.org/Trailspages/ATVpages/ATVNHMap.html are three good webpages to check out.


Ammonoosuc Rail Trail is 19.2 miles passing through the towns of Woodsville, Bath, Landaff, Lisbon, and Littleton. ATVs and Motorcycles are permitted on the trail year around. Hopkinton-Everett Reservoir, located in Dunbarton and Weare - 18 miles of trails. Millsfield Pond Trail System, from Dummer to Millsfield 12 miles of intermediate terrain trails + 100 miles of logging road available. North Country ATV Club Trails in North Stratford has approximately 100 miles of trails from gravel to woodland. Rockingham Recreational Trail - Fremont Branch is 14 miles and goes through the towns of Windham, Derry, West Hampstead, Sandown and Fremont. It runs from Windham Depot Rd in Windham to Rt 107 in Fremont. Success Trail in Berlin has 20 miles of trails. Sugar River Recreation Trail is 8 miles and goes between Claremont and Newport and passes through 2 historic railroad covered bridges. ATVs and Motorcycles are permitted on the trail year around.


Rhode Island and Vermont do not have any ATV parks, state or otherwise. If you want to ride its either private property or out of state. It is a issue that ATV enthusasits have been trying to change for years. Fight the good fight, I personally wish you all the luck in the world!







Sunday, July 8, 2007

ATV & OHV Trails In the Gulf Coast States

This page will focus on the Gulf States that have ATV Trails within their State Parks and National Forests. I have located a few city or county run parks and have included those as well. Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas are considered to be The Gulf States. I always considered Texas as a Southwest State so you will probably find some listing of State Park / National Forest ATV Trails within my blog there as well.


The National Forests in Alabama offer two OHV Trails – Kentuck ATV Trail in Talladega National Forest , Talladega District and Flint Creek Multiple-Use Trail in the Bankhead National Forest. For trail maps & info contact : Talladega Ranger District1001 North St. Talladega, Al. 35160. Telephone (205) 362-2909 Check out this website for lots of useful info: http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/alabama/


Florida's National Park service offers Parks with ATV Trails. The Big Cypress Preserve, The Ocala National Forest and The Withlacoochee State Forest offers trails for ATV and many other ORV vehicles. The ATV Trails will be closed from June 4, 2007 through August 2, 2007 in the Big Cypress Preserve. This apparently is a annual closure. Be sure to read the rules and regulations page and the permit guideline page, both are full of useful information. http://www.nps.gov/bicy/planyourvisit/orv-use.htm


Florida's Ocala National Forest offers two trail systems: Ocala North OHV Trail System and Wandering Wiregrass OHV Trail System. Dirt bikes, ATV's and Dune Buggy's share these trails. The Florida Trail Riders Club has a great website offering lots of information on these two systems: http://www.floridatrailriders.org/articles/ONF.htm


Withlacoochee State Forest in Florida is home to Croom Recreation Area located 40 miles north of Tampa. Contact the Withlacoochee State Forest, 15019 Broad St., Brooksville, FL 34601 or call (352) 754-6896. A good web page is http://www.fldof.com/forest_recreation/ohv_index.html. There are sand trails and hills everywhere. If you are planning an extended stay be aware you cannot ride your ATV into the campground, it must be trailered in and that campground has a sandy drive so be careful, getting stuck is easy to do!


Louisiana's Kisatchie National Forest trails in three different areas.Off-Highway Vehicle Trails: The Calcasieu Ranger District, the Kisatchie Ranger District and the Catahoula Ranger District have Off-Highway Vehicle Trails. Catahoula Trails include the Hickman Multi-Use Trail (Camp Livingston) and the Little Creek Multi-Use Trail (Camp Livingston). The Calcasieu Trails are Enduro Multi-Use Trails and Claiborne Multi-Use Trails. The Kisatchie Ranger District's Sandstone Trail is seasonally closed from January 1st through March 30th of each year for renovations and repairs. All trails have the chance of closure due to excessive rain and will be posted as such on this websites front page OHV chart as soon as possible. http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/kisatchie/ohv/index.html or you can call 1-866-830-6467 for closures. Because of the recent rains all the ATV/Motorcycle Trails are closed today 7-9-07.


DeSoto National Forest in Mississippi has two ATV trails: Bethel and Rattlesnake Bay ATV trails. You can contact De Soto National Forest P.O. Box 248 or 654 West Frontage Road Wiggins, MS 39577 or call (601) 528-6160. Be sure to checkout the website to see if they have closed the area due to weather. http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/mississippi/desoto/recreation/


Trace State Park in Mississippi also has ATV riding Trails. Trace State Park is located in Belden, MS, 9 miles West of Tupelo, MS and 8 miles East of Pontotoc, approximately two miles off of MS Hwy 6 on Faulkner Road in Pontotoc County. There are campgrounds withing the park and a large variety of other recreational opportunities. Check out this website: http://www.visitmississippi.org/outdoor_rec/outdoor_parks.asp


In Texas you must take a ATV Safety course if you are planning on riding an ATV on public land http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/msb/atv.htm has a nice offering of trails: Lake Mackenzie Recreation Area(ATV's & Motorcycles only) - Silverton, TX (806) 633-4335


McClellan National Grassland(ATV's & Motorcycles only) Pampa/Gray County Black Kettle Ranger Disctrict, Route 1 Box 55B Cheyenne, OK 73628 (580) 497-2143 http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/texas/


US Army Corp of Engineers, Somerville Lake / Yegua Creek Park OHV Area (ATV's & Motorcycles only) Brenham/Washington County. Located at Somerville Lake near Somerville, TX, this park has a campground, several other recreational opportunities and a ORV area. http://www.rtis.com/reg/somerville/lake.htm


Barnwell Mountain Recreational Area (ATV's, Motorcycles & Full Size OHV's) Gilmer/Upshur County, North Gilmer, TX Telephone: (903) 797-4066 http://www.barnwellmountainra.com/


Eisenhower State Park (10 acre ATV and Mini Bike Trails) Denison/Lake Texoma/Grayson County, Denison, TX (903) 465-1956 http://www.stateparks.com/eisenhower.html


San Felipe Park (Dune Buggies, ATV's & Motorcycles) located in Fabens, El Paso County, TX


Trophy Club Park at Grapevine Lake (ATV's & Motorcycles only) Trophy Club/Denton County, 100 Municipal Drive, Trophy Club, TX 76262 (682) 831-4603. This 877-acre recreational area operated by the Town of Trophy Club is opened from 7am-7pm on the weekends 8am-7pm weekdays. Located on the southwestern shores of Lake Grapevine, the park includes a 150-acres for All Terrain Vehicle Use (ATV), day use picnic areas, and a boat ramp - no campgrounds available. http://www.trophyclub.org/parks_rec/marshall_creek_park.asp


Sam Houston National Forest (ATV's & Motorcycles only) Montgomery/Walker & Grimes Counties, Sam Houston Ranger District 394 FM, 1375 West New Waverly, TX 77358 (936) 344-6205 http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/texas/


Angelina National Forest (ATV's & Motorcycles only) Zavala /Angelina County Angelina Ranger District 111, Walnut Ridge Road, Zavalla, TX 75980 (936) 897-1068 http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/texas/


Davy Crockett National Forest (ATV's & Motorcycles only) Lufkin/Cherokee & Angelina Counties, Davy Crockett Ranger District Route 1 Box 55 FS Kennard, TX 75847 (936) 655-2299 http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/texas/


Sabine National Forest (ATV's & Motorcycles only) San Augustine/Shelby & Sabine Counties Sabine Ranger District, 201 South Palm, Hemphill, TX 75948 (409) 787-3870 http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/texas/


Lake Meredith National Recreation Area in Moore & Potter Counties.
Blue Creek OHV Area (ATV's, Motorcycles, Full Size OHV's, Dune Buggies & Sand Rails) and Rosita OHV Area (ATV's, Motorcycles, Full Size OHV's, Dune Buggies & Sand Rails) Lake Meredith National Recreation Area PO Box 1460, Fritch, TX 79036 (806) 857-3151 http://www.nps.gov/lamr/planyourvisit/off-road-vehicles.htm















Saturday, July 7, 2007

United States ATV Clubs in the Midwest

There are many ATV clubs in the United States. This page is for clubs in the Midwest. These clubs are a great source of information. There are more clubs than I ever imagined in each state. With a little more research you will finds hundreds more in each state. ATV / OHV Clubs tend to keep their members up to date on the newest OHV laws, events, and new places to ride. Many of the members tend to ride together giving you the opportunity to make new friendships plus it a great safety factor. Many are family orientated and many of the members are environmentally friendly which are both big pluses. You'll also be able to find great deals on used ATV's and gear as so many people are continuously upgrading, downgrading or just plain changing. If you are looking for a club to join I have listed several for you all to check out. Many welcome newcomers and if you just enjoy chatting and comparing notes, getting advice or ideas most have forums or chat rooms for you join. If you would like to email me with your club I will add it to this blog.


Illinois

Annawan, IL - IL Timber Riders - Open to quad and dirt bike riders. Meeting once a month. Our club offers monthly riding trips, monthly newsletter, discounts at local ATV and dirt bike performance shops, and more! Membership is open to all Illinois residents. Yearly dues are $25 for single, $35 for family.



Coulterville, IL - ATV Trailriders Inc. - Year round riding - contact for details. Email: ace@egyptian.net



Fairview Heights, IL - 4WF-Four Wheelin Friends ATV Club - ATV Club based in Southwestern IL, just outside of St Louis. Email: email@4wf.net



Joliet, IL - Joliet Mud Turtles - We are a complete 4x4 club there are members with Trucks, Jeeps, Bikes and Quads, monthly meetings, rides. Email: Kuipers.p@att.net


Mt. Vernon, IL - Southern Illinois Trail Riders - Come on out and join the club Email: siatvc@yahoo.com


Plainfield, IL - Chicagoland Trailmasters -OHV club which has members who own ATV's and Motorcycles. Dues are 25.00 per month. We take trips throughout the Midwest to ride trails and other events. Also offers riding classes as well as safety classes for members at no additional cost. Email: Medicchgo1@aol.com


Quincey, IL - West Central Illinois ORV Club - Email: atvrider62305@yahoo.com

Spring Grove, IL - ATV Horse Power Junkies - http://www.atvhpjunkies.com/ Members from several states, come join us!

Thomson, IL - Big River ATV Club- monthly rides & meetings - Email: cdmba4@grics.net


Indiana


Bluffton, IN - Northeastern Indiana Trail Riders -We are trying to start a ATV club here in Northeastern Indiana and need people in surrounding area to join. Email: qcray30@yahoo.com


Corydon, IN - Midwest Trail Riders - Established to attract ATV riders who also want to assist in the creation, preservation and location of new ATV riding areas. Our primary focus is on activities centered around ATV riding in Southern Indiana and Kentucky. Email: brian@midwesttrailriders.com


Hammond, IN - Northwest Muddiggers - Looking for people who like to go riding, possibly once a month. Email: rolfester_2000@yahoo.com


Indianapolis, IN - Hoosier Trailblazers - Rides are mostly in the fall, winter and spring when it is cool. family oriented group. Email: trailblazer400@hotmail.com


Kirklin, IN - Hoosier Holeshots - New club looking for members. Fun, Environmental and Community Orientated. Email: bassboyjeb@yahoo.com

LaPorte, IN - Northwest Indiana 4x4 and ATV Club - Small family friendly club. We would like to see more utility quads as well as sport quads. Email: nwiatvclub@comcast.net

Lawrenceburg, IN - Southeast Indiana Quad Abusers - We are a group of friends of all skill levels that ride mostly big bore 4x4 quads but some of our kids ride sports - Email: quadog@aol.com

Madison, IN - Southeastern Indiana ATV Club - Just starting up, but we have a ton of ATV people here. Email: kgoley@hotmail.com

Peru, Kokomo, Logansport, IN - Mud Runners - New Club looking for others to join. Email: dave_21_smith@hotmail.com

Rockville, IN - Guion Hill ATV Park - Wanting to start a club that will be based out of Guion Hill ATV Park. This park is located in west central Indiana, 7.5 miles east of junction U.S. 41 and S.R. 236, look for the signs. It will be for Motorcycles and ATV's. We have 100 acres of prime woods, hills and creeks to ride in. Directional signs on the trails are in progress. There will be more land available to ride on in the near future. There is a practice motocross track. Email: garyweli@hotmail.com

Rockport, IN - Outlaws ATV Club -Most of the club members are a lot of friends who just love to ride. There are lots of 450 foreman's, 700 Polaris's with highlifter's 28in. outlaw tires, so that's why we named our club OUTLAWS. We truly love to play in the nastiest mud around. Email: bjgarrett2003@yahoo.com

Rushville, IN - ATV Rage - Accommodates member's ages 5 to 60+ that ride anything from 50cc. mini quads, 4X4 utility quads up to race quads. Experience is not necessary, the club members are eager to help Email: viper@qhcf.net

South Bend, Laporte, New Carlisle, IN - FFT Racing and Riding - Looking for safe riders - no show-offs please. Email: jcsaun3@hotmail.com

Sounthern Indiana & Kentucky - Midwest Trail Riders: http://www.midwesttrailriders.com/

Indianapolis, IN - TrailGators - Open to all ATV's and Motorcycles. Email: info@trailgators.org

Tell City, IN - Boonie Riders 4 Wheel Drive Club http://www.boonieriders.org/

Walton, IN - Kokomo Quadders: http://www.kokomoquadders.com/ Email: president@kokomoquadders.com

Tri-State, Indiana -Lincoln County Trail Riders http://www.lincolncountrytrailriders.com/



Iowa

Centerville, IA - South Central Dirt Riders - Email: scdr@myway.com SCDR leases approximately 125 acres from the United States Corps of Army Engineers located at Lake Rathbun in Southern Iowa. Memberships to join the club are $25/year which includes dues to the Iowa OHV Association. If you enjoy riding, please contact us.

Davenport, IA - Two Rivers ATV Club - We are a club with 150 members in the Iowa/Illinois quad city and surrounding area. Email: Tworiversatvclub@mchsi.com

Keokuk, IA - Lee County ATV Club - Looking for member for a new club. Email: Probowhunter@yahoo.com


Marion, IA - Dirt Surfers - Looking for members to help encourage riders and legislation to benefit our riding areas, environment, riders safety. Email: starks1230@earthlink.net


Michigan


Alma, MI - Central ATV Riders - Just a couple of guys who have ATV's and like to ride with others. Email: centralatvriders@hotmail

Calumet, MI - Keweenaw ATV Club - 100 member club - come join us - Email: larrymaronen@hotmail.com

Chesterfield, MI - Michigan ORV - Located in the Metro Detroit Area, we are constantly looking for more people to go riding with. Email: Robin@michiganORV.co

Coleman, MI - Precious City Boys Quad Club - A family organization since 1994 with ages ranging from 12 on up. ATV's are usually 4 wheel drive with winches due to terrain and areas of Michigan's Upper Peninsula we generally ride in. Email: linda@preciouscityboysquadclub.org

Dearborn, MI - Michigan ATV Association (MATVA) - Our organization was developed to support the needs of ATV enthusiasts within Michigan - Email: matva@michiganatv.com

Lapeer, MI - Trail Riders - we are a bunch of hard working guys that like to have fun in the snow ,mud, and in the dirt - Email: red_dog_75@hotmail.com

Muskegon, MI - Ride The Wind ATV Club - We do poker runs for charity and riding for fun. Mostly in the Baldwin and Silver Lake area. Will travel Michigan and close states. Email: Baldwinboy1997@cs.com

Ontonagon, MI - MI-Trale ATV Club - looking for members - Email: mitrale1@yahoo.com

Southgate, MI - ATV Offroad Club of Michigan - We are a social club with family riding and safety in mind. We help others get on and off the trails. We help promote legislation for the sport and education for the lives on the trails. Email: chuck.smith@atvoffroad.net

Wyoming, MI - Crystal Lookout ORV -We enjoy the outdoors and riding with our friends. Email: DMudrunner@aol.com

Minnesota


Albert Lea, MN - Freeborn County ATV Club - Monthly Meetings, rides, new members welcome - Email: freebornatvclub@yahoo.com

Alexandria, MN - GC-Extreme Off-Road Club - A Minnesota Off-Road club for ATVers and Dirtbikers - Email: gc_extreme@hotmail.com

Apple Valley, MN - South Metro ATV Club - A group oEmail: smatvmail@southmetroatv.comf ATV enthusiast started this club with a goal to train youth, and open up riding opportunities.

Bovey, MN - West Range Riders - Email: dk1westlake@msn.com

Buffalo, MN - Open Trails ATV Club - Growing Club come join us! Email: Denise59@prodigy.net

Duluth, MN - Arrowhead ATV Club - Come visit Minnesota! - Email: barbergc@peoplepc.com

Goodhue, MN - Goodhue-Bellechester Railriders - We are a growing ATV/Snowmobile Club. We are working on making ATV trails and have some snowmobile trails. Email: dweckerling@hotmail.com

Goodhue, MN Cannon Valley ATV Club - Family orientated club with monthly scheduled rides. Email: rjrtools@frontiernet.net

Le Suer, MN - Southern Minnesota ATV Riders - A club believing in safety, etiquette and preservation of our rights to ride for generations to come. Email: president@smnatvr.com

McGrath, MN - White Pine Riders ATV Club - Promote safety thru training of the youths in our state and local area. Email: rcdresser2001@yahoo.com

Marble, MN - Range Riders ATV Club - Email: barr@uslink.net

Moorehead, MN - Red River Riders ATV Club - Monthly meetings and rides. Email: rocklouder@gomoorhead.com

Mt. Iron, MN - Laurentian ATV Club - Email: hrussell@uslink.net

Nashwauk, MN Range Riders ATV Club, INC - We have a lot of Minnesota Certified ATV Safety Instructors in our club. We promote Youth Safety Training and education of the riding public. Email: barr@uslink.net

Newport, MN - Washington-Ramsey County Wheelers - Email: Bonalent@aol.com

Onamia, MN - Onamia4wheelers - Email: reddogsuix@yahoo.com

Pengilly, MN - Red Rock Riders - Red Rock riders formed at the Crazy Loon Saloon in Pengilly, Minnesota would like to welcome you to the 42 mile Pengilly to Alborn ATV Trail. We would to like to host you and your club or group of riders to show you our local trails. Email: rootbeer55744@yahoo.com

Pillager, MN - Rough Riders ATV Club - Active Club, new members welcome - Email: roughrideratvclub@hotmail.com

Rapid,MN - Freedom Ridge ATV Resort - Freedom Ridge ATV Resort, Vacations designed for those who need to escape from the ordinary! ATV rentals by hour, day, or week with our own groomed track&mud pit. camping with all hook-ups and lodging available. Please call for information (877) 877-0291 or Email: reservations@freedomridge.net

Rapids, MN - Forest Riders ATV Club - New Members Welcome - Email: forestridersatv@yahoo.com

Plymouth, MN Fat Trax ATV Club - Email: fattraxatvclub@yahoo.com

Rushford, MN - Bluff Country ATV Club - monthly meetings - Email: Heidi@bluffcountryatv.com

Shakopee, MN - River Valley 4 wheelers - Monthly meetings and rides - Email: rivervalley4wheelers@yahoo.com

Rochester, MN - Southeastern Minnesota Dirt Riders - ATV and Off Highway Motorcycles Welcome. Email: chico_rider@msn.com

St. Cloud, MN - Granite City Trail Riders ATV Club - Our club rides most trails within the state. If you'd like to join us please contact us: Email: arcticcat650@charter.net


Missouri

Arnold, MO - Quads 4 Christ - small group ministry that exists to promote fun and fellowship among 4-wheeler enthusiasts. Email: the-stones@earthlink.net or sonnyhaney@yahoo.com

Ashland, MO - Mudslingers - Small club looking for riders - Email: msw7913@yahoo.com

Belton, MO - Mid Missouri Mudslingers - http://midmissourimudslingers.org/ Email: president@midmissourimudslingers.org

Exeter, MO - Missouri ATVers - Family orientated - No alcohol and riding. We ride at Little Sahara in OK, Chadwick and other areas around the 4 states. Email: p-tree@mo-net.com

Hazelwood, MO - St Louis ATV Riders - New Club looking for members - Email: mslhockey@sbcglobal.net

Huntsville, MO - Mid Mo ATV Riders Club - Small Club of friends that love to ride, not pro's just out to have fun. Email: jb_birddog@hotmail.com http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/midmoriders/

Imperial, MO - OPC Trail Riders - Located south of St.Louis city. We enjoy all types of trails from nice easy trails to extreme rock crawling to mud boggin'. Email: opcdyno@sbcglobal.net

Kirksville, MO - NEMO Offroaders and ATV Club - New club for Atv's and Offroad Vehicles
Email: webmaster@nemooffroaders.com

Kirksville, MO - Hillbilly ATV Club - Contact us for meeting times and places. Dues are $25.00 for single or family riders. We are trying to open a trail park and its looking good, members needed. Email: hbillyatv@cableone.net

Lowry City, MO - Mud Mongers ATV Club - New Club looking for members, based in the Cooper Creek riding area in Deepwater, MO - Email: rwsj2003@yahoo.com

Pevely, MO -St. Joe Sandrunners - New Club that rides in St. Joe Park http://www.stjoepark.com/joomla/

Poplar Bluff, MO - Semo ATV Riders Association - Large Club (est: 2004) but the more the merrier! Email: dalesmotorcyclecenter@semo.net

Rogersville, MO - Ozark Trails ATV Club - Rides in the Chadwick riding area in Mark Twain National Forest. http://www.ozarktrailsatv.com/ Email: OzarktrailsATV@aol.com

Willow Springs, MO - Ridgerunner ATV Club Email: coachbk@hotmail.com


Ohio

Ohio - Ohio ATV Rider Association: Family orientated, monthly rides, yearly ride event, monthly newsletter for members. atvmadog4@aol.com


Addyston - Ride When We Can Club - looking for members. Contact: gockoc@aol.com


Alliance, OH - Open Country - small weekend riding club - ohioatvriders@yahoo.com


Bainbridge, OH - Humbolt Hills Motorcycle Club - http://humbolthillsmotorcycleclub.com/ Email: jwile@earthlink.com


Bedford, OH - Quad Squad - Small ATV club looking to grow. norm@quadsquad.net


Bellefontaine, OH - Mad River Dirt Riders -kjm@loganrec.com Looking for some friends who like to ride. Please email your riding preference, trails, etc


Chillicothe, OH - No Politics ATV Club - Looking for people to ride in Southern Ohio. Have places to ride in and around Chillicothe as well as Hocking County. downings@horizonview.net


Chillicothe, OH - Southern Ohio ATV Club - (S.O.A.R.) jjividen24@adelphia.net


Cincinnati, OH - Cincinnati Quad Runners - We ride in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. All levels invited. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cincinnatiquad/ contact Jeff Muel@yahoo.com

Cincinnati, OH - Cincydirt - is a club of local people to ride bikes and ATV's. mike@cincydirt.com http://www.cincydirt.com/forum/


Cincinnati, OH - Southern Ohio ATV Riders (S.O.A.R.) girandola@peoplepc.com


Cleveland, OH - Southeast ATV Riders Association - Established 1998 - Email: president@seatv.com


Dayton, OH - Five Rivers Off-Road Club - The mission of the Five Rivers Off Road Club is to provide Support and fellowhsip for Off-Road Motorcycles & ATV riders. gcmpal@sbcglobal.net

Dayton, OH - Miami Valley Off-Road Club - Provides fellowship and support to family orientated group geared to off-road motorcycles and ATVs. Promotes family, safety and fun. mvoffroadclub@woh.rr.com

Gahanna, OH - Mid Ohio Trail Blazer ATV Club - A group of mature riders that are interested in riding the toughest trail we can get our wheels on. We are interested and skilled in trail building and keen on promoting trail system development in Ohio. Email: mlbauman@aol.com

Hamilton, OH - Far Mountain ATV Riders - rwrksr@fuse.net Deep woods riding for the ATV lover. Mountainous terrain and overnight trips. Geared for the outdoor lover who likes to pack mule their ATV.

Killbuck, OH - French Ridge ATV Club - http://www.valkyrie.net/~superbike/

Lakeview, OH - Lake Rats ATV Club - http://www.freewebs.com/atv/ email: cgolden4@woh.rr.com


Lima, OH - Roosters ATV Club - New club looking for members. trent_k_99@yahoo.com


Middletown, OH - Full Throttle ATV Club - http://www.ohioatvclubs.com/fullthrottleatv.html


New Lebanon, OH - ATV Fun Club - family and friend orientated, combination riding and camping if a big part of this club contact@atvfunclub.com website: http://www.atvfunclub.com/

Lake County ATV Club - Mentor, OH
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/LakeCountysATVClub/



North East Ohio Arena Quad Racing http://www.northeastohioarenaquadracing.com/
Email: rjmor18@aol.com



Port Clinton, OH - On the Edge ATV Club - Email: bobbyandjamie@ontheedgeatv.com
Website: http://www.ontheedgeatv.com/


Richmond, OH - Richmond ATV Riders - Looking for others to join in this weekend ATV Club, contact bruceandmj@1st.net


Uniontown, OH - Mike/Dan's ATV Club - Weekend Riders -Contact: Mike Simmons (330) 328-5048

Wooster, OH - Wayne County ATV Club - http://groups.msn.com/waynecountyatvclub
Email: d89taurus@aol.com


Wisconsin

Barron, WI - Barron Bears ATV Club - Email: christabellefeuille@notrail.com

Caledonia, WI - Caledonia 4 Wheelers Club - pfeestjr@wi.rr.com

Danbury, WI - Turf & Tundra ATV Club - Website: http://www.turfandtundra.org/

Dunbar, WI - Pemenee River Riders contact Debbie@cybrzn.com

Elkhorn, WI- All Season Riders ATV Club - Email: mailto:allseasonriders@yahoo.com

Fairchild, WI - Quad County ATV Club - Monthly meeting and rides. Club started in 1998 with only 8 members, today there are over 400. Check out their website: http://www.quadcountyatvclubinc.com/

Janesville, WI - Wisconsin ATV - http://www.wisconsinatv.com/

Larsen, WI - Fox Valley ATV Association - Website: http://www.watva.org/clubs/foxvalley.htm Email: fvatva@athenet.net

Luxemburg, WI - Baylake ATV Club - baylakeatvclub@yahoo.com

Necedah, WI - Castle Rock Family ATV Club - Email: crfac4wheelin@tds.net Website: http://www.crfatvc.com/

Nekoosa, WI - Petenwell ATV Club Inc. Email: petenwellatvclub@yahoo.com Website: http://www.petenwellatvclub.com/


Oconto County, WI - Dusty Trails ATV Club - Trails open annually May 1st - October 31st, come join us! Website: http://www.dustytrailsatvclub.co/

St. Germain, WI - St Germain ATV Club - Contact: geokris@newnorth.net

Superior, WI - S.W.O.R.D.S. ATV Club - Family orientated club, promoting saftey and fun! http://www.swordsatvclub.com/

Woodland, WI - AT WHEELERS ATV CLUB atvcamper@powercom.net





Thursday, July 5, 2007

Midwest State Park ATV & OHV Trails

Oklahoma has a couple of OHV Parks to choose from. Beaver Dunes State Park in Northwest Oklahoma is a fun place to play in the sand! Bring your ATV or the OHV vehicle of your choice because there's 300 acres of sand hills. There are two campgrounds located inside this 520 acre park. If you like to fish or hike Beaver Lake is stocked with Large Mouth Bass, Channel Catfish and Perch. There are also fishing and hiking trails and a playground for the kids. Pioneer Campground is located adjacent to the ORV area and has direct access to the dunes. Both campgrounds have a comfort station with hot showers. The Dump station is located at Hackberry Bend Campground. There is also a picnic area for day use, it has picnic tables, and 2 shelters you can reserve. There is a sand volleyball court, basketball goal, horseshoe pits, playground and nature trail. The park is located 1 mile North of Beaver on Hwy 270. The official website is http://www.oklahomaparks.com/ Telephone: (580) 625-3373 Email: BDunes@OklahomaParks.com.


The other park is Little Sahara State Park located in NW Oklahoma just south of Waynoka on Hwy 281. Little Sahara offers over 1600 acres of sand dunes ranging in height from 25 to 75 feet. Campsites with both RV hookups with electric & water and tent sites are available. There is also picnic areas and showers.


In Missouri things are a little different. There are plenty of ATV and motorcycle trails offered in the Mark Twain National Forest. You may ride on any open, numbered Forest Service road in counties where county ATV permits are issued, provided you abide by Missouri State Motor Vehicle regulations. Approximately half of the counties with National Forest land offer permits. You may also ride on designed motorcycle and ATV trails at Chadwick OHV Area in Christian County, and Sutton Bluff Motorcycle and ATV Use Area in Reynolds County but you must have a Forest Service permit. Both daily permits and annual permits are available at Forest Service offices. Trails offer different degrees of difficulty and length so be sure to get a map. Both the Ava Ranger District Office

http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/marktwain/ranger_districts/ava/and the Salem Ranger District Office http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/marktwain/ranger_districts/salem/ offers maps and brochures.


The Copper Creek OHV Area is managed by the US Army Corp of Engineers and is the only ATV area available at the Harry S. Truman Dam & Reservoir. It is only for ATV's and Dirt Bikes, no Dune Buggies or 4-Wheel Drive vehicles allowed. Cooper Creek Park covers approximately 400 acres of hills, trails, and open riding. Public use of the area is currently free of charge. It is strongly recommended that you call regarding Rules and restrictions (309) 794-4524. There is no camping at Copper Creek, the nearest Campground is in Sparrowfoot, south of Clinton. Check out their website at http://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/harryst/hst_home.htm. Fingers Lakes State Park and St. Joe State Park offers a wide variety of entertainment as well as ATV Trails. Check out http://www.mostateparks.com/fingerlakes.htm for more information on these parks.

Iowa has 5 state parks that are geared to ATV enthusiasts and trails. Check their website out at http://www.iowadnr.com/law/atv/index.html

Illinois has Mill Creek Park in Clark County. It is located 7 miles northwest of Marshall, Illinois on the Lincoln Heritage Trail Rd. There are 15 miles of equesterian and ATV Trails. There is a 139 site campground with shower facilities and 9 primitive camping sites. There is a playground, courtesy dock, fuel dispensing, cabins and boat rentals. The park also has a picnic area with three shelters and two playgrounds, as well as 9 primitive camping sites.

Indiana is great, it has 8 ATV Parks and 6 Parks with Snowmobiling Trails. Their website if full of rules, regulations, maps and locations, http://www.in.gov/dnr/outdoor/ohv/index.htm

Michigan has many opportunities for ATV and OHV recreation but Silver Lake State Park is the only park that offers ATV/OHV within the State Park System. Other opportunities are through the State Forest Lands, National Forests and Genesse County Park. Check out http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10365_15070---,00.html for lots of ATV/OHV info.

Minnesota and Wisconsin are both states with many opportunities to ride, there are quite a few State Parks with ATV and OHV Trails http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ohv/az.html. Wisconsin's site is http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/caer/cfa/lr/atv/atvsummer.html. You'll spend hours on these sites!

Ohio National Forests offer five different parks with ATV Trails. The following website have lots of information on these parks. http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/allegheny/recreation/atv_trails/



Tuesday, July 3, 2007

OHV, SVRA & ATV Trails In Western U.S.

If you enjoy riding Dirt Bikes, ATV's, 4 Wheel Drive Vehicles, Dune Buggy's or any other type of Off Road Vehicle I have found that many of the State Parks across America have specialized Riding Trails and Parks. There are also many clubs that offer events surrounding your favorite type of Off Road Vehicle.

You can ride for a few hours, a full day or in many state parks there are campgrounds or nearby campgrounds that are available if you want to spend a weekend or more with this fun sport. Riding the trails are always fun and a whole vacation can be planned around this activity.

Not all the ATV, OHV or SVRA parks are the same, some are strictly day use only. Some have fee's, some don't. Some have picnic areas and restrooms & showers. others only offer the privacy of a nearby bush for their restroom facilities and rocks or the hard ground for their picnic area. Some of the parks have clearly marked trails and some have narrow paths that makes a person wonder if it's a trail or a foot path.

When you get the opportunity to go you'll have a blast but remember to think safety first. Always take food and water with you! Riding gear is important and in many parks required. DOT certified Helmet, goggles, gloves, boots and a long sleeve shirt are standard for any rider. I have also read about many people wearing chest protectors which is strongly recommended by many riders. Take a First Aid Kit, Trail Map, Cell Phone and Tools you might need in case of a breakdown. Also, you might want to take some common sense items such as sunscreen, bug spray, flashlight, matches or a lighter. A camera is also recommended to document the trails and the fun!

California has many SVRA (State Vehicular Recreation Area) and OHV (Off Highway Vehicle) Parks. California's official park website can be located at ohv.parks.ca . Other western states that have extensive trails systems are Arizona, Oregon & Utah. The official website for Oregon is www.orgeon.gov/oprd/atv/index.shtml. Utah State Park OHV information can be located at stateparks.utah.gov. and Arizona's website is http://www.azgfd.gov/outdoorrecreation/off_highway.shtml . These website covers, rules, fees, campgrounds, regions, etc.

In Washington, Riverside State Park, approximately 6 miles northwest of Spokane offers 600 acres of ATV and OHV Trails. There are restrooms and picnic areas, and nearby campgrounds within the park.

In Idaho The Wilson Flat ATV trail system is 11 miles of loop trails specifically designed for ATV use. These trails offer great views of Anderson Ranch Reservoir, and the surrounding area. Contact the Fairfield Ranger District for information and maps at PO Box 189, Fairfield, ID 83327 Telephone: (208) 764-3202. Garden Valley Area ATV Trails, located 20 miles north of Garden Valley in Idaho's southwest region offers many trails. Contact the Emmett Ranger District Office for maps to all these trails: 1805 Hwy. 16, Room 5, Emmett, ID 83617, Telephone: (208) 365-7000. The Bureau of Land Management manages Potacello Off Road Vehicle Area, 4350 Cliffs Dr., Pocatello, ID 83201, Telephone: (208) 478-6340.

The St. Anthony Sand Dunes in Idaho consists of more than 11,000 acres of white quartz sand dunes up to 400 feet high. The Dunes attract riders from not only the western states, visitor's come from every state. The sand dunes offers primitive campsites located along the East end of the dunes along the Red Road. A developed Campground is located at Egin Lakes Access Recreation Site. It is located on the south-central portion of the dune camping. Contact St. Anthony Sand Dunes, 1405 Hollipark Dr., Idaho Falls, ID 83401 Telephone: (208) 524-7500
If you are interested in riding in Wyoming you can order maps off the Wyoming State Park Website in the Off Road Vehicle section just by filling out an online form. http://wyotrails.state.wy.us/trails/atv.htm.

Colorado has four state parks that offers OHV trails, you can check out their website at http://parks.state.co.us/.

In South Dakota ATV’s and motorcycles are allowed on logging trails and fire roads. Most hiking trails prohibit ATV and motorcycle use. Sixty percent of the forest is open all year to off-road motorized travel and another 20 percent is open seasonally. Check the forest map for locations of closed areas, dates, and other travel information. Motorized vehicles are NOT allowed in the Black Elk Wilderness.

Nevada seems to have a few problems with their State Park - OHV Program but a good website to check out is www.nohvcc.org/contacts/nevada. This site is a great source of information for news, clubs, organizations and legal issues involving OHV activities.