When I plan an Arkansas ride, I think in two big regions: the Ouachita National Forest (southwest) and the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests (north and central). Between them, you get dedicated OHV trail systems plus a ton of legal forest roads for street-legal 4×4 exploring.
My rule is simple: legal first. On National Forest land, ride only on routes and trail systems that are designated open. Cross-country travel is prohibited, and the MVUM is the “what’s legal” map.
Quick Content
show
Offroad Trails in Arkansas (Quick top picks)
| Name | Best for | Region | Highlights | Difficulty | Fees/Permits | Official map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wolf Pen Gap | ATV/UTV/dirt bike single-day loops | Ouachita NF (Mena area) | Connected loops, creeks, vistas. Seasonal and rain-closure managed. | Varied | No fee. No permit. Daylight-only rules apply. | USFS page + Avenza map |
| Mill Creek Trail | Riders who like rocky terrain | Ozark NF (near Ozark, AR) | Remote feel, rock outcrops, streams. Trail is rough and rocky. | Easy to very difficult | $3/vehicle/day. No camping at trailhead. | USFS page (map link) |
| Brock Creek Trails | Families + mixed skill groups | Ozark NF (Big Piney RD) | 42+ miles of connected loops | All skill levels | No fee. Stay on designated trails. | USFS page + Avenza map |
| Huckleberry Mountain | Long loops + backcountry vibe | Ozark NF (Mt. Magazine area) | 37.3 miles total. Multiple loops. Sign-in boxes. | Easy to strenuous | Check current alerts. Road 1604 has a closure due to landslide. | USFS page + Interactive Visitor Map |
| Moccasin Gap | Mixed groups incl. some high-clearance rigs | Ozark NF (near Russellville) | Primarily a horse trail network, with portions open to OHVs and high-clearance vehicles | Varied | OHV day use: $3/vehicle (includes 1 OHV pass). OHV pass: $3/OHV. | USFS page + Interactive Visitor Map |
| Belle Starr Multi-Use Trail | Scenic loop riding | Ouachita NF (Poteau area) | 22.6-mile loop | Moderate to more difficult | OHVs limited to designated roads and trails. Open year round. | USFS page + Avenza map |
| Fourche Mountain Trail | ORV + motorcycle days | Ouachita NF (Y City area) | Multi-use network (horses, hike, bike) with ORV/moto riding allowed | Varies | No fee listed | USFS page (info + map link) |
| Buckhorn OHV Trail System | Big-mile weekends | Ozark NF (Boston Mtns, Lee Creek unit) | 60-mile network (2 main loops + connectors | Varies | Day use listed as free on the USFS fee schedule | Avenza map by USFS R8 |
Best public OHV trail systems in Arkansas (ATV/UTV/dirt bike)
These are the big, legal, designated trail systems I point people to in Arkansas. Most are on the Ozark-St. Francis or Ouachita National Forests. I ride by one rule: stay on signed routes and respect closures.
A quick note on my “rider comments”: I’m pulling those from public rider feedback (like Avenza map reviews) and common patterns in local reports, then translating it into what I’d expect you to experience. I’m not claiming I’ve ridden every mile.
Wolf Pen Gap Trail Complex (Ouachita NF, near Mena)
- What it is + who it’s for
- One of Arkansas’ best-known public OHV systems, with connected loops so you can build a short ride or a full day.
- The official map listing calls it 42 miles of trails.
- Vehicle fit notes
- Great for ATV, UTV, and dirt bikes.
- No tracked vehicles.
- Helmet use is strongly encouraged on the official page.
- Trail character
- Expect high points with views, plus creek areas like Gap Creek and Board Camp Creek mentioned on the official description.
- Season / hours / closures
- Typically open from the first Friday of March through Oct. 31.
- Holiday openings: 3 days before Thanksgiving through 2 days after, and Dec. 22 through Jan. 2.
- No riding after sundown or before sunrise.
- Weather closures are real here. The district can close the system during or ahead of heavy rain to prevent damage.
- Fees
- No permit needed. No fee listed.
- Camping + staging
- Camping is restricted to designated campsites (do not just camp at a trailhead).
- Trailheads: West, South, East, North, each with its own driving directions listed by USFS.
- Restrooms: yes. Potable water: no.
- Official map + ranger contact
- Official Avenza map link is posted on the USFS page.
- Mena-Oden Ranger District: (479) 394-2382.
- What riders keep saying (and how I’d plan)
- Riders repeatedly mention little to no cell service and say the free Avenza map works well offline. My move is to download the map before I leave town and carry a battery pack.
https://wolfpenatv.com/Belle Starr Multi-Use Trail (Ouachita NF, Poteau Mountain area near Waldron)
- What it is + who it’s for
- A 22.6-mile looping multi-use system (formerly “Poteau Mountain Multi-Use Trail”).
- Good fit if you want a scenic woods ride with some climbs and mixed difficulty.
- Vehicle fit notes
- Open to OHVs, but OHV use is limited to designated roads and trails.
- Works best for ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes that stay within the designated network.
- Trail character
- Official description highlights creeks, vistas, and mixed hardwood/pine forest.
- Surface is gravel or unsurfaced.
- Season / hours / closures
- Open year-round per USFS.
- Hunting is popular in fall. USFS specifically says to be alert and wear bright orange.
- Fees
- The USFS page does not show a fee in the section we can see. I treat it as “verify before you go” and call the district if you want certainty.
- Camping + staging
- Camp only at designated campsites. Trailheads are not designated campsites.
- No restrooms. No potable water.
- Official map + ranger contact
- USFS links an official Avenza trail map.
- Poteau/Cold Springs Ranger District: (479) 637-4174.
- My practical take
- Because it’s multi-use and marked with yellow rectangles, I’d keep speed down at intersections and be ready to yield.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/ouachita/recreation/belle-starr-multi-use-trailSugar Creek Multi-Use Trail (Ouachita NF, Knoppers Ford area)
- What it is + who it’s for
- About 30 miles of rustic multi-use trail, mostly easy to moderate, with some harder segments.
- Listed for motorcycles, 4-wheelers, and utility vehicles, plus horses, bikes, and foot travel.
- Vehicle fit notes
- Solid choice for ATV, UTV, and dirt bikes if you want a quieter, less “built-up” system. (It’s not a full-service OHV park vibe.)
- Season / hours
- Open year-round.
- Fees
- No fee.
- Camping + staging
- No restrooms. No potable water at the trail site.
- Trailhead directions are clearly listed from Hwy 23 / Hwy 116 past Knoppers Ford.
- Official map + ranger contact
- The “more information and a map” link on USFS appears broken (404) right now, so I’d plan to navigate using forest MVUMs and a downloaded offline map.
- What I hear riders mention
- Locals commonly describe the access roads as dusty when dry and messy when wet. I’d show up with a tow strap and expect slick clay after rain.
https://www.recreation.gov/camping/poi/245077Fourche Mountain Trail (Ouachita NF)
- What it is + who it’s for
- A designated multi-use trail system known for Fourche Mountain and Buck Knob viewpoints per the Forest Service listing.
- Vehicle fit notes
- Listed under Ouachita NF OHV opportunities, so it’s one I treat as a “ride the trail as signed” system.
- Season / closures
- Conditions can change fast in the Ouachitas. I check the forest alerts and call the district if storms rolled through.
- Official contact
- The OHV opportunities page lists Jessieville/Winona/Fourche Ranger District: (501) 984-5313.
- My take
- This is a good “views and miles” pick when you want scenery more than mud holes.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/ouachita/recreation/trails/fourche-mountain-trailMill Creek Trail (Ozark NF, Boston Mountain area)
- What it is + who it’s for
- A remote Ozark NF OHV trail with mountainous terrain and connected loops.
- Difficulty officially ranges easy to very difficult and it’s described as rough and rocky.
- Vehicle fit notes
- Dirt bikes and ATVs are a natural fit for the rougher sections.
- UTVs can do it, but I’d expect slow technical miles in spots and plan extra time.
- Season / hours
- Open year-round.
- Rules
- No camping at the trailhead.
- State laws on helmets, spark arresters, and mufflers are enforced (per USFS).
- Fees
- USFS lists $3 per vehicle per day.
- The 2024 forest fee schedule also shows an annual option ($30/year) for the Mill Creek OHV Trail System day use line item.
- Staging
- Directions are clearly listed from Fayetteville via AR-16 (Combs) and from Ozark via AR-23 (Cass).
- Restrooms: yes. Potable water: no.
- My take
- This is one I’d pick when I want rocks, elevation changes, and fewer crowds. I’d also bring a plug kit and tools. Sharp rock is real in the Ozarks.
https://www.recreation.gov/activitypass/AP2877Brock Creek Multi-Use Trail System (Ozark NF, near Hector)
- What it is + who it’s for
- 40 miles total (USFS describes 30 miles original plus 10 miles added) in the Ozark National Forest.
- A strong all-around system for ATV, dirt bike, and many UTV riders.
- Vehicle fit notes
- The fee schedule breaks out 22 miles single-track and 20 miles quad-track. That’s a huge hint on what to ride.
- Season / hours
- Open year-round.
- Fees
- No fee listed on the Brock Creek USFS page.
- Camping + staging
- USFS lists 4 trailheads: Lakeview, Silver Hill, Barton, Old Potter.
- Lakeview Trailhead: primitive campsites and a picnic area, but no water and no restrooms.
- USFS notes: no potable water and no restrooms at the system.
- Official map
- USFS says the Brock Creek multi-use trail map is available on Avenza.
- My take
- If you’re on a wider SxS, I’d stick to the quad-track first and use the single-track info as a “dirt bike zone” signal.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/ozark-stfrancis/recreation/brock-creek-trailsHuckleberry Mountain (Ozark NF)
- What it is + who it’s for
- A rugged Ozark NF ride with creek crossings and a more backcountry feel than the “easy access” systems.
- Trail character
- Official descriptions highlight multiple stream crossings, including many fords of Big Shoal Creek.
- My take
- This is where I plan for water. If rain is in the forecast, I pick a different system. Too many crossings can turn a fun day into a recovery day.
https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/trails/huckleberry-mountain-horse-trailMoccasin Gap (Ozark NF, north of Russellville)
- What it is + who it’s for
- A multi-use trail area developed mainly for horses, but with portions open to OHVs and high-clearance vehicles.
- Has 4 loops that converge, plus “lots of streams and small waterfalls” in the USFS description.
- Vehicle fit notes
- This is not “OHV everywhere.” Ride it like a mixed-use area and stay on the portions open to OHVs.
- Season / hours
- Open year-round.
- Fees
- USFS lists: OHV day use parking $3 per vehicle (includes 1 OHV unit trail pass), and $3 per OHV for additional trail passes.
- Campground fees show $15 per site.
- Camping + staging
- USFS lists 17 camping spurs.
- Restrooms: yes. Potable water: no.
- Easy to find. From Russellville: take AR-7 north ~25 miles.
- My take
- Because it’s popular with horse events, I’d avoid peak ride weekends if you want to move fast. If I do go busy, I ride extra courteous and slow around blind corners.
https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10158788Buckhorn OHV Trail System (Ozark NF)
- What it is + who it’s for
- A designated Ozark NF OHV day-use trail system that shows up on the forest’s fee schedule and has an official Avenza map listing.
- Season / hours
- Listed as day use, all year on the fee schedule.
- Fees
- The 2024 fee schedule shows free day use for Buckhorn OHV, with basic amenities noted.
- Amenities
- Fee schedule notes vault toilet and no water.
- Official map
- Buckhorn OHV Trail Map is available via Avenza under USFS R8.
- My take
- This is the kind of system I like for a simple plan: show up early, ride a few hours, and be self-contained. Bring your own water.
https://buckhorncamping.com/ohv-trails.htmBest off-road parks in Arkansas (private)
Private parks are my “no surprises” option. You pay a fee, you get signage, and you’re not guessing what’s legal. Most of these spots welcome ATV, UTV, dirt bikes, and 4×4. Rules vary a lot, so I always skim them before I load up.
Hot Springs Off-Road Park (Hot Springs, AR)
- Best for: mixed groups. UTVs, ATVs, dirt bikes, and street-legal 4x4s in one place.
- Trails: they advertise 100+ miles of marked trails with difficulty options.
- Day-use trail fees (posted):
- $45.45/day per vehicle for SUV/Jeep/Truck (passengers included)
- $45.45/day per vehicle for UTV/SxS (passengers included)
- $45.45/day per ATV (helmets required, 1 rider per vehicle except factory 2-seater)
- $18.18/day per dirt bike (helmets required, 1 rider per vehicle)
- Rules I’d actually plan around (posted):
- Seat belts required for passengers in SUVs/Jeeps/trucks. They’re clear that it’s not negotiable.
- DOT helmet required for ATV and dirt bike riders. They even mention helmet rentals.
- No doubling on ATVs/dirt bikes unless it’s a factory 2-up ATV.
- Memberships (posted):
- “Basic” is $0 and speeds up check-in (digital waiver + buy day passes).
- Paid tiers discount day passes (good if you come 3+ days a year).
- My notes (from rider feedback + what the park emphasizes):
- The pattern I see is “well-marked trails + friendly staff.” People like being steered to trails that match skill level.
- If you’re bringing kids or newer drivers, this is one of the easier parks to manage because the rules and ratings are spelled out.
Official links:
https://hotspringsoffroadpark.com/
https://hotspringsoffroadpark.com/trail-fees/Carter Off-Road Park (Alexander, AR)
- Best for: weekend crews who want lodging on-site and to ride whenever.
- Hours (posted): park is open 24/7, 365 days. Office hours for customer service are listed separately.
- Lodging (posted):
- Treehouse cabins: sleep 6, full bath. $150/night non-event. $300/night event weekends (3-night minimum).
- Castle rooms: multiple room types. Non-event rates shown at $125–$150/night depending on room.
- RV sites with water/electric: $30/night (non-event) and it includes your RV ticket (as posted).
- Primitive sites: they mention 70+ sites along a creek (pricing varies by event and is sometimes “call for pricing”).
- Maps (posted): they provide a park map PDF and a reserved campsites PDF.
- My notes (based on what the park posts + rider chatter):
- This is a “make it a whole weekend” park. If your group wants cabins and a central hangout, it fits that vibe.
- I’d still check the calendar for event weekends because rates and crowd levels swing hard.
Official links:
https://carteroffroadpark.com/
https://carteroffroadpark.com/mapsRATS ATV & Off-Road Park (Camden, AR)
- Best for: big acreage, southern Arkansas mud and trail riding, camping-heavy weekends.
- Size and trails (posted): about 1,880 acres with 30+ miles of trails.
- Trail pass pricing (posted):
- $25 day pass
- $50 weekend pass
- Age 10 and under: FREE
- Camping pricing (posted):
- Weekend tent: $10
- Weekend RV primitive: $40
- Weekend RV electric: $80
- Waivers (posted):
- Adults can do an online waiver.
- Minors require a parent/guardian and a notarized waiver for the initial visit (they also mention a notary fee option at certain times).
- Rules worth knowing (posted):
- No firearms.
- Speed limits: 15 mph in camping/main roads, 5 mph in vendor areas.
- Quiet time: 12:00 AM to 7:00 AM.
- No crossing boundary markers, fences, or county roads. They’re serious about staying on property.
- My notes (based on rules + the way it’s run):
- This reads like a park that’s built for events and camping logistics. Wristbands, speed limits, quiet hours. It’s structured.
- If you like late-night camp noise, pay attention to the quiet time rule so you don’t get bounced.
Official links:
https://ratsatvpark.com/3B Off Road (Eureka Springs Adventure Park, AR)
- Best for: a rated trail system where you can pick your difficulty and keep moving.
- Size and trails (posted): 150 acres and 50 miles of rated off-road trails.
- Day passes (posted):
- $40/day per rig for UTVs and larger vehicles (driver + 1 passenger included)
- $30/day for dirt bikes and 4-wheelers
- $10 each additional passenger (as posted)
- Multi-day pricing (posted):
- 2-day: $70 (UTV/larger), $50 (dirt bike/4-wheeler)
- 3-day: $90 (UTV/larger), $70 (dirt bike/4-wheeler)
- 7-day: $150 (UTV/larger), $120 (dirt bike/4-wheeler)
- My notes (based on what they promote + rider patterns):
- People treat this place like a “choose-your-own-adventure” trail park. You can run easier loops or go hunt the gnarly stuff.
- I’d show up with a plan and a map mindset. The park sells the idea of rated trails. Use that.
Official links:
https://3boffroad.com/
https://3boffroad.com/about/Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch & Adventure Park (near Kingston, AR)
- Best for: “ride all day, camp primitive, repeat.” Big land. Big views.
- Size (posted): 4,000+ acres.
- Bring-your-own vehicle day rates (posted):
- $30 per ATV/Jeep/UTV/4-wheeler (includes operator)
- $10 per passenger in the same vehicle
- Kids 8 and under: $5
- Kids 2 and under: free
- Helmet note (posted):
- Helmets recommended in general.
- Helmets required for dirt bikes and 4-wheelers.
- Dirt bike single track rule (posted):
- Single track is for dirt bikes and hikers only.
- Absolutely no 4-wheeled vehicles on single track. Ever.
- Camping (posted):
- Primitive style. Generators allowed.
- No hookups. No dumping.
- My notes (based on what they publish + rider feedback trends):
- This is the kind of place people go for the waterfalls, overlooks, and “I’m out here” feeling more than a manicured park vibe.
- I’d bring real spares. Plugs, tools, tire kit, and a way to navigate. Big property means you can get turned around.
Official links:
https://wildernessrider.com/Byrd’s Adventure Center (Ozark, AR)
- Best for: riverside camping plus trail time. Great “weekend basecamp” energy.
- Property size (state listing): 800 acres.
- Trail access (state listing):
- They advertise multiple riding areas for ATV/UTV/4×4 and motorcycles.
- My notes (from consistent rider talk):
- The Mulberry River area is a big part of why people go. Ride, then cool off and camp.
- I’d call ahead or check updates before you roll because access and conditions can vary with weather and events.
Official links:
https://byrdsadventurecenter.com/
https://www.arkansas.com/ozark/outdoor-recreation/byrds-adventure-centerHillarosa ATV Park (Blevins, AR)
- Best for: mud lovers. Big events. Big crowds on big weekends.
- What it’s known for (posted/social): “mud joint” reputation and event weekends.
- My notes (based on how it’s presented + rider patterns):
- If you hate deep mud, skip it. If you love mud, you’ll find your people.
- Watch their event schedule. Hillarosa weekends can be a totally different experience than a quiet open-ride day.
Official links:
https://www.facebook.com/hillarosaatv/
https://www.instagram.com/hillarosaatvpark/
https://www.arkansas.com/blevins/outdoor-recreation/hillarosa-atv-parkOhana Celebration Park Off-Road Trails (Vilonia, AR)
- Best for: family camping with a side of trail riding.
- Trails (posted): 9+ miles of off-road trails for dirt bikes, ATVs, and SxS.
- Day rate (posted): $25 per day per rider.
- Rules that matter (posted):
- Helmets required for dirt bikes and 4-wheelers.
- They call out trail closures when wet.
- They post planned closures. Example: they list a full-month closure (so always check current status).
- My notes (based on the way it’s run):
- This feels more like a campground that also has trails, not a hardcore off-road park. That’s a plus if you’re bringing new riders.
- If there’s been rain, don’t assume it’s open. They’re pretty upfront about protecting the trail when it’s soft.
Official links:
https://www.ohanapark.com/
https://www.ohanapark.com/Off-Road-Trails.htmlJeep & overland routes in Arkansas (legal backroads + scenic drives)
Here’s how I keep it legal in Arkansas: public roads only unless a road is clearly signed as open to street-legal travel. If it’s a forest road, I treat gates and closure signs like they’re concrete walls. No exceptions.
Talimena National Scenic Byway (Ouachitas)
- Why I run it: big ridgeline views. One of the best “drive it, hop out, take pics, keep rolling” routes in the state.
- How I use it for overlanding: I drive the byway for the views, then I basecamp nearby and explore legal gravel connectors in daylight.
- Good for: stock 4x4s, overland builds, motorcycles, leaf-peeping season, sunrise runs.
Official links:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/ouachita/recreation/talimena-national-scenic-bywayPig Trail Scenic Byway (Ozarks)
- Why I run it: constant curves, mountain feel, and it drops you into prime Ozark scenery fast.
- Overland angle: perfect “spine road” to stitch together campgrounds, small towns, and legal side roads.
- Good for: Jeeps, ADV bikes, and anyone who wants a scenic drive with plenty of stops.
Official links:
https://www.arkansas.com/ozark/outdoor-recreation/pig-trail-scenic-bywayArkansas Scenic 7 Byway
- Why I run it: it’s the classic north-south Arkansas scenic route. You cross totally different landscapes in one trip.
- Overland angle: easy to plan. Pick a section, add a state park stop, then add a short gravel detour if it’s clearly legal.
- Good for: weekend loops, fall color, relaxed road-trip overlanding.
Official links:
https://www.arkansas.com/arkansas-scenic-7-bywayGreat River Road National Scenic Byway (Arkansas Delta)
- Why I run it: flat, easy miles with history and river culture. It’s a different Arkansas than the mountains.
- Overland angle: great when the mountains are slammed with weather or crowds. Easy towing. Easy dispersed day trips.
- Good for: trucks with rooftop tents, vans, and anyone chasing food, museums, and river views.
Official links:
https://www.arkansas.com/great-river-road-national-scenic-bywayArkansas Delta Byways (Great River Road + Crowley’s Ridge focus)
- Why I run it: it lays out the Delta’s marquee byways in one place and helps you plan a clean loop.
- Good for: history-heavy trips, birding stops, and relaxed overland pacing.
Official links:
https://www.arkansas.com/arkansas-delta-bywaysJeep & overland routes in Arkansas (legal backroads + scenic drives)
If you want to “overland” Arkansas and stay legal, think like this:
- Designated OHV trails are for ATVs, dirt bikes, and sometimes SxS. They are not where you take a full-size 4×4.
- Forest roads are where most Jeep and overland travel happens. Some are fine for any truck. Some are rocky, rutted, and seasonal.
- MVUM is the rulebook. If a road or trail is not shown as open on the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for that Ranger District, I treat it as closed.
My quick “stay legal” checklist (the stuff I do before I roll)
- Download the MVUM PDF for the Ranger District you’re actually driving.
- Load it in an offline map app (Avenza works great for geoPDFs).
- Check USFS alerts for the forest (washouts, road closures, fire restrictions).
- Plan fuel like you will not have service. Because you often won’t.
Scenic drives that pair well with legal gravel backroads (street-legal 4×4 friendly)
1) Talimena Scenic Drive (Mena area)
- What it is: A ridgeline drive out of Mena with big views and strong fall color.
- How I extend it: I use the Ouachita NF MVUM around the Mena/Oden side to add forest-road miles and make a full-day loop.
- Watch-outs: Fog and slick pavement in the cool months. Tourists stop fast at overlooks.
2) Scenic Highway 88 (AR side of Talimena)
- Same “backbone” as the Talimena section on the Arkansas side.
- Easy way to build a route: Run 88 as the scenic spine, then add MVUM-legal spurs that dead-end at views, camp spots, or creek crossings.
3) Highway 7 (Arkansas Scenic Byway)
- What it is: One of the classic north-south scenic routes through the state.
- How I use it: This is my “connective tissue” highway. I hop on and off into national forest gravel when I want dirt, then return to 7 for fuel and food.
4) Mount Magazine Scenic Byway (Highway 309)
- What it is: A climb to the state’s highest peak area with overlooks and switchbacks.
- Overland angle: Great “basecamp” zone. You can stack legal forest roads nearby (MVUM) and still be close to services.
5) Sylamore Scenic Byway (Ozarks, Calico Rock area)
- What it is: A scenic route through the Sylamore Ranger District region.
- Why it’s good for overlanders: Lots of public-land feel. Good add-on trips to caves, creeks, and camp areas, as long as you’re sticking to roads shown open on the MVUM.
6) Crowley’s Ridge Parkway
- What it is: A long scenic byway across the ridge in east Arkansas.
- Overland angle: It’s more “scenic touring” than technical 4×4, but it’s awesome when you want history, small towns, and an easy drive day.
7) Great River Road (Arkansas sections)
- What it is: Mississippi River culture, levee country views, river towns.
- Overland angle: Low stress. Great for bigger rigs, trailers, and family travel days. Mix in wildlife areas and public stops, but don’t assume levee and farm roads are public.
What I tell friends about Arkansas “backroads”
- Public does not mean drivable. Arkansas has a ton of private timber and farm ground. Gates and “No Trespassing” signs are real.
- After rain, dirt roads change fast. Clay gets slick. Low-water crossings get pushy.
- If you want a sure thing: build routes inside Ouachita NF or Ozark-St. Francis NF using the MVUM and USFS alerts.
Permits, registration, and legal requirements in Arkansas
I’m not a lawyer. I’m just careful because tickets and land closures ruin riding for everyone. Here’s the practical, state-wide baseline I use.
The 30-second Arkansas legal cheat sheet
- Street-legal Jeep/4×4: normal plate + insurance. Forest roads are fine if the road is open.
- ATV: Arkansas treats these as off-highway vehicles. On-road travel is generally illegal except for narrow exceptions.
- UTV (side-by-side): Arkansas now has a framework that lets local governments open specific roads if you meet requirements.
- National Forest rule: stay on designated routes. The MVUM is what matters.
ATV registration basics (Arkansas)
- Arkansas law requires ATV registration through the state (handled through the Department of Finance and Administration process).
- You get a numbered decal that’s supposed to be attached on the left front side of the ATV.
- No renewal is required for ATV registration once it’s done (per the code sections that created the decal system).
ATVs on public roads in Arkansas (big one)
- The baseline rule: It’s unlawful to operate an ATV on a public street or highway in Arkansas.
- There are exceptions (farm/hunting use between fields, direct crossings, certain disability access conditions, and certain official duties).
- My real-world advice: don’t plan your trip around exceptions. Trailer to the trailhead when you can.
UTVs on roads (side-by-sides)
Arkansas has moved here recently, so this is the part most articles mess up.
- State law allows a local government to designate roads open to UTVs.
- Typical requirements you should expect to meet (and I would not show up without):
- Valid driver’s license
- UTV registered and sticker displayed as required
- Proof of insurance carried in the UTV
- Required equipment (lights, signals, brake light, seatbelts)
- Local rules matter a lot. One county may allow county roads and some state highways. The next county may allow nothing. City limits can also change the rules.
National Forest rules (Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis)
When I’m on USFS land, I follow these as non-negotiable:
- Ride or drive only on routes designated as open for your vehicle class.
- Cross-country travel is prohibited.
- Some areas also restrict OHV use inside developed sites (like campgrounds) except to enter and exit.
What about “no permit needed” signs?
You’ll see areas that say “no permit required.” That usually means no extra trail pass for that trail system. It does not automatically erase state registration rules, county ordinances, or USFS designation rules.
My packing list for legal compliance (small stuff that saves weekends)
- Photo of your registration and insurance on your phone, plus paper backup if you have it.
- Driver’s license on you.
- Avenza (or similar) with the MVUM saved offline.
- A basic light kit and a real muffler/spark arrestor setup on bikes and ATVs.
Official links you should follow for permit and legal requirements:
https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2025R%2FPublic%2FACT922.pdf
https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FBills%2F2025R%2FPublic%2FHB1606%2FHB1606_022620251526.pdf
https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/AllTerrainVehicleAffidavit.pdf
https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/recreation/programs/off-highway-vehicle-program/mapsBest time to ride (weather, mud, fire, seasonal closures)
Arkansas rides great a lot of the year. The difference is traction, water level, and whether a trail system is even open.
Here’s how I plan it.
The short answer
- Best all-around: late March to May and September to early November
- Hottest and hardest on machines: late June to August
- Most “surprise closures” risk: spring storms and any week with repeated rain
- Most predictable closures: systems with season dates and rain shut-down rules (Wolf Pen Gap is the classic example)
Wolf Pen Gap seasonal reality (why timing matters)
- Wolf Pen Gap is typically open from the first Friday in March through Oct. 31.
- It also has two holiday windows (late November and late December into early January).
- It can close during or ahead of heavy rain to protect the trail surface.
If your whole trip is built around Wolf Pen Gap, I always tell friends to have a Plan B within 30–60 minutes.
Maps, GPS, and how to avoid illegal routes
I love exploring, but I hate guessing. Arkansas has a ton of public land next to private timber and farms. If you “just follow tracks,” you will eventually end up somewhere you shouldn’t be.
Here’s the map stack I use.
The map stack that keeps you legal
- MVUM (Motor Vehicle Use Map)
This is the legal “open or closed” map for National Forest roads and trails. It also shows vehicle class and seasonal restrictions. - Trail system map (Avenza or official PDF)
For places like Wolf Pen Gap, Brock Creek, Mill Creek, etc. This helps you navigate loops, trailheads, and intersections. - Backup navigation
- Offline phone map + spare battery
- Paper map in the rig if you’re going remote
- A simple compass never hurts
Why MVUM matters (in plain English)
- MVUM tells you what routes are designated open.
- If a route is not designated open, it’s treated as closed for motor vehicle use.
- The MVUM exists specifically to support enforcement of staying on designated routes.
That’s why I don’t rely on crowd-sourced tracks for legality.
How I actually use MVUMs (step-by-step)
- Pick your forest and Ranger District (Ouachita vs Ozark-St. Francis).
- Download the MVUM from the forest’s Visitor Maps and Guides page.
- Save it offline.
- Build loops that have:
- A fuel stop within your range
- A bailout route back to pavement
- A turnaround plan if a road is washed out
Avenza tip (simple but important)
- If you use Avenza, download your MVUM and trail maps before you lose service.
- Turn on your phone’s GPS and run the map in airplane mode. It still tracks.
“Red flags” that usually mean you’re about to go somewhere illegal
- No route number. No sign. Just two tracks into the trees.
- Fresh “No Trespassing” or lease signs near a boundary.
- A gate that someone has driven around. I don’t follow that. Ever.
- A road that looks maintained on an app but isn’t on your MVUM.
Safety, etiquette, and trail stewardship in Arkansas
I want these places open forever. That means riding like adults.
The non-negotiables (what I do every ride)
- Helmet on ATV, dirt bike, and when I’m riding hard in a SxS.
- Seat belt in SxS and Jeep. Every time.
- Stay on designated routes. No cross-country shortcuts. No “just going around the puddle.”
- Slow at trailheads and camp areas. Dust and blind corners are how people get hurt.
Arkansas risks I plan for
- High water at crossings. Some systems have multiple creek crossings that get sketchy fast after rain.
- Slick clay. It’s either hero dirt or ice. There’s no in-between.
- No cell service. It disappears fast once you’re in the hills.
Equipment I bring (because it saves weekends)
- Tire plug kit + pump
- Tow strap + soft shackles
- Small tool roll
- First-aid kit
- Extra water (more than you think)
- Offline maps and a power bank
Trail etiquette that keeps it fun
- Yield smart: uphill traffic has less control, so I give them room.
- Call your passes: a quick hand signal and a friendly wave goes a long way.
- Don’t roost camps and trailheads. That’s how access gets restricted.
- Keep your group tight at intersections. Nobody likes searching for lost riders.
Stewardship rules I follow (and you should too)
- Go over obstacles, not around them. Going around widens trails.
- Avoid riding wet trails when you can. Wet damage lasts all season.
- Pack out trash. Pick up what you didn’t bring. It’s a good look for all of us.
- Respect barriers and gates. If it’s blocked, it’s blocked.
Forest rules that matter (common enforcement stuff)
- Ride only on routes designated open.
- Mufflers and spark arresters matter, especially when fire danger is up.
- Don’t ride around developed campgrounds for fun. Enter and exit only.
Hunting season awareness (keeps tension low)
- Fall through winter can mean more hunters on access roads.
- I wear bright colors when I’m outside the vehicle.
- I don’t blast past parked trucks at dawn. I slow down and roll by.
FAQs
Do you need a permit to ride OHV trails in Arkansas?
Most public trail systems don’t require a special “trail permit,” but that doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all. Some areas charge a day-use fee, and state registration rules can still apply depending on what you’re riding and where you’re transporting it. I always check the trail’s official page before I load up.
Where is the best place to ride a side-by-side in Arkansas?
If I had to pick one public system for SxS riders, I’d start with Wolf Pen Gap because it’s well-known, mapped, and easy to plan a full day. For longer weekends and mixed skill groups, Brock Creek is a strong option. If you want a guaranteed open gate and clear rules, a private park like Hot Springs Off-Road Park can be the simplest plan.
Are there public ATV trails near Mena, Hot Springs, or Fayetteville?
Mena: yes, Wolf Pen Gap is the headline ride in that area. Fayetteville: you’ve got public options in the Ozarks within driving range, including systems like Mill Creek and other nearby designated areas. Hot Springs: most riders lean on private parks or street-legal forest road exploring nearby, because dedicated public OHV trail systems are not as close as they are to Mena and the Ozark zones.
Can you ride off-road vehicles on National Forest roads?
Sometimes, but only where that road is designated open for your vehicle type. In a lot of places, forest roads are open to street-legal vehicles but not open to OHVs. I treat the MVUM and posted signs as the final word.
What maps should I use to stay legal?
I use the MVUM first. That’s the legal “open or closed” map on National Forest land. Then I layer in the trail system’s official map (often an Avenza map) so I can navigate intersections and trailheads without guessing.
Are these trails open year-round?
Some are, but not all. A few systems have season dates and many can close for wet-weather damage, maintenance, or safety. I always check alerts and the trail’s official status page the night before I leave.
Calvin Anderson, founder of Off-Road Lord, is a seasoned off-roading enthusiast from Tucson, Arizona. With over a decade of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of off-roading vehicles and trails, Calvin’s insights provide a trusted guide for fellow adventurers.