Thrill seekers around the world are drawn to the sport of ATVing and off-roading. ATV stands for all-terrain vehicle. As the name implies, these three or four-wheel vehicles are built to tackle all kinds of off-road terrain. Driving an ATV or other off-road vehicle through the backcountry is a fun way to experience the wilderness. Luckily, a variety of state parks and public lands around the country offer miles of ATV roads and trails to explore. Some parks even make it easy for you to secure permits online, like with the Florida State Forest Service. From sand dunes to high-altitude mountain paths, there are ATV destinations to suit any preference or experience level.
Nine great state parks for off-road vehicle adventures
1. Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park, Oregon
The beautiful coastal setting of Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park makes it a favorite destination for ATV riders. Miles of sand dunes divide the park from the coast, and campers in the H loop of the campground (sites 350-417) are allowed to ride their ATVs directly onto the dunes October 1- April 30. Campers in other loops, and all campers during high season, are not allowed to unload their ATVs in the campground. During the high season, the sand dunes gate is locked and the route is inaccessible, so head to the park during the off season to experience this great ATV destination.
2. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Utah
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a magical land of shifting sand and the only major sand dune on the Colorado Plateau. Located in southern Utah, not far from the Arizona border, this state park is extremely popular with ATV riders. In fact, over 90 percent of the 2,000 acres of sand dunes in the park are open for riding. Coral Pink Sand Dunes is open to ATV riders year-round, though a Utah OHV sticker is required before hitting the dunes. Motorcycles, dirt bikes, ATVs, UTVs, Jeeps and dune buggies are all allowed on the trails. Helmets are required for riders under 18 years of age.
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3. Chugach State Park, Alaska
One of the four largest state parks in the United States, Chugach State Park contains 495,000 acres at the west end of the Chugach mountain range. Rugged mountain peaks rise over 8,000 feet into the air in Chugach State Park, and ice fields and glaciers remain in the higher elevations. Aside from being a standout for natural beauty, Chugach State Park is also a popular place to go ATVing in Alaska. Off-road vehicles are permitted at certain access points within the park, but check with park officials before setting out, as those violating the rules will be fined. People under 14 years of age are not allowed to operate off-road vehicles in Alaska state parks unless accompanied by an adult over the age of 21.
4. State Forest State Park, Colorado
Described as the ultimate example of rugged Colorado, State Forest State Park encompasses 71,000 acres of high altitude peaks, alpine lakes and miles and miles of wilderness trails. The terrain here is very similar to Rocky Mountain National Park, but those in the know come to State Forest State Park to avoid the crowds. In addition to the abundant hiking, biking, skiing and horse trails, the park has over 80 miles of trails open to off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Motorized vehicles must remain on designated roads and OHVs are not allowed in the campgrounds except to enter and exit each campsite.
5. Jericho Mountain State Park, New Hampshire
Jericho Mountain State Park boasts 85 miles of its own ATV trails open year round. The park also has direct trail access to ATV/OHRV regional trail systems and roads. And the regional trail system for ATV is robust to say the least with over 100 miles of trails around the park.
Besides the standout ATV trails, Jericho Mountain State Park also features a lake, beach, picnic pavilion, visitor center, campground, boat launch and allows pets. There are 21 campsites, including 5 cabins.
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6. Trace State Park, Mississippi
Located just a few miles outside of Tupelo, Mississippi, Trace State Park offers a quiet and natural place to escape into nature. Famous for its historical significance as the former home of Davy Crockett, today Trace State Park offers miles of hiking trails and fishing spots to enjoy. The park also features 35 miles of trails that can be utilized by ATVs and motorcycles. Helmets are required and anyone operating an off-road vehicle must have a valid drivers license or possess an All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Course Certificate. An annual release form must be on file, and a daily fee is charged for using the ATV trails.
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7. Eisenhower State Park, Texas
On the rocky shores of Lake Texoma is Eisenhower State Park, a popular spot for fishing, hiking, biking and ATV riding in Texas. The park has several miles of trails in the Ironweed OHV trail system that are designated for small off-road vehicles such as motorcycles, ATVs and dirt bikes. Helmets are required, and before riding the trails, a Texas OHV decal must be purchased at the ranger station.
8. Medicine Lodge State Archeological Site, Wyoming
A land of rich culture and history, Medicine Lodge State Archeological Site has been a home to both prehistoric and modern people for the past 10,000 years. The park is open year-round and considered to be one of the best ATV basecamps in the entire state, with access to hundreds of miles of Bureau of Land Management land, Forest Service roads and trails. Valid off-road vehicle permits are required to ride ATVs. Trails are open year-round, except for the Dry Fork Canyon Trail, which is closed to motorized vehicles from late December to June 1.
9. Idaho City Yurts, Idaho
About an hour north of Boise is Idaho City, home to some fantastic off-road trails. Idaho City Yurts is the perfect jumping off point to explore the over 400,000 acres of premier woods within and around Boise National Forest that is bisected by over 500 of miles of designated single track trails. Elevation ranges from approximately 3,200-8,800 ft. There are only 6 yurts, but each provides privacy and seclusion amidst the mountainous scenery and features a partial wrap around deck, kitchenette and fireplace.
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Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies var by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.