Where To Go ATV Riding In California: [COMPLETE GUIDE]

ATV fans will love California's wonderful weather, diverse topography, and picturesque vistas. Finding the right ATV trail for you can be difficult because there are dozens of choices in California. Whatever your idea of fun is, exploring off-road trails or racing up enormous dunes, California has plenty to offer.

Some of the places to go ATV riding in California are Cleghorn OHV Trail, Hollister Hills, Jawbone Canyon, Miller Canyon, Johnson Valley OHV Area, Hungry Valley, Ocotillo Wells State Recreation Area, Clay Pit, Mammoth Mountains, Calico Ghost Town, Holcomb Creek, Big Bear Lake, and Berdoo Canyon.

All-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, are a good way to enjoy California's outdoors. Riders drive off-highway vehicles in the ATV class only in permitted areas. ATV operation is subject to tight California restrictions designed to protect riders.

Best Places To Go ATV Riding In California

California is known for various things, including Hollywood, wide and gorgeous desserts, excellent surfing, and gorgeous Redwood trees. Additionally, it has some amazing ATV trails and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the nation. Below are some of the best places to go ATV riding in California.

Ocotillo Wells State Recreation Area

For Hollywood productions like Sahara, featuring Humphrey Bogart, Ocotillo Wells was a significant setting. Dirt motorcycles gained popularity when jeeps started to be sold to the general population. At this time, Ocotillo experienced a golden age as an off-road activity; over 85,000 acres of Ocotillo Wells can be explored.

You can camp, but be sure to visit the website for the regulations and the permitted and prohibited items. While fans adore the Wild West, they also value creature amenities like spotless bathrooms that are well-stocked with everything you need. Enjoy the day or the night admiring nature. Also, remember to show respect so that future generations can enjoy Ocotillo Wells.

Miller Canyon

Within San Bernardino County is the Miller Canyon. Along the trail, riders are treated to some breathtaking vistas of Lake Silverwood. The path ascends hills and through forests before reaching mountain peaks. It smells like new pine; the San Bernardino ranger unit is in charge of the Miller Canyon region, which has campsites and a staging area.

It also features out-of-the-way wilderness restrooms. Only the summer months are appropriate for using Miller Canyon. Driving in this steep desert is risky because of the sporadic winter snowfall and sweltering summer heat.

Doves Valley

Dove Springs is the common name for this location because it is in reality. Due to its resemblance to the Jawbone General Store, the neighborhood is known as Jawbone. Dove Springs is renowned for its wide and challenging trail network.

Families can ride together on the difficult sand tracks, while more experienced riders will enjoy the fire roads more. The harsh weather and other elements attract winter visitors because it is the only way for visitors to see Scodie Mountain as a seasonal hunting home.

Calico Ghost Town

Calico Ghost Town, which has a colorful dirt environment and is located close to a natural rainbow, gets its name. The former mining community of Calico is now a popular tourist destination and historical site. The red-hued mountain behind the settlement is emblazoned with the white letters CALICO.

A mining tour, a saloon, a pub, a local store, a cemetery, and lots of exciting off-roading can be found at Calico. Visitors can observe several rock climbers in the mud hills in action; the prospect of exploring abandoned mines appeals to many motorcyclists. Parking spaces and camping areas are available for authorized OHV users.

ATV Riding In Los Angeles California

Many people who live in Southern California like riding ATVs near Los Angeles. Due to the increasing popularity of these enjoyable rides among families, it is no longer just an activity for individuals seeking adventure. You might wonder why; for some, it is the excitement of becoming muddy; others may be interested in discovering uncharted territory, but everyone is for the adrenaline rush.

ATV enthusiasts of all stripes can find routes and locations in the county and the surrounding areas. You can get everything you need here, whether you are an adrenaline freak or a fresh college grad looking to hang out with buddies. Numerous companies in the area provide services for all kinds of off-roading, which makes the experience convenient and easy.

Additionally, Los Angeles County has developed specialized OHV parks and routes. In doing so, the environment and private property are damaged as little as possible without sacrificing the surge of adrenaline. When you live in LA, the season is not an issue. A few rainy periods might come your way because they will only heighten the adventure.

Most off-roading locations are accessible to riders seven days a week. Some are additionally open from dark till sunrise. Below are some places to ride an ATV in Los Angeles, California.

Azusa Canyon

If you want to discover a mixture of rock, river, and sand, head to this recreational park, located 11 kilometers from the Azusa Highway. This 160-acre certified off-highway driving area has all amenities, including a snack area and restrooms. They also brag about a unique obstacle course that is well-liked by fans.

However, the track and the ATV are only available on holidays and weekends, so double-checking before making travel arrangements is always a good idea. Visitors must additionally pay an entrance charge, which supports the upkeep of the varied terrain.

Rowher Trail

One of the challenging terrains to traverse is the Rowher Trail. All year long, it is accessible to 4-wheel drives, ATVs, and motorcycles. The last section of the trail going to Bouquet Reservoir is hilly and demands prior off-roading expertise. This trail is best navigated with a 4WD due to the rocky terrain and abrupt steep hills.

Big Bear Lake

The backdrop of this 12-mile trek is Big Bear Lake. The trail is challenging, partly because of a V-shaped rock drop midway through. The track features deep rock drops, bumpy roads, mud, and water. It is strongly advised to utilize a 4WD on this trail. Big Bear offers some fantastic camping locations for outdoor photography; the ideal time to visit is from March through October.

ATV Riding In Palm Springs California

Exploring the over 80,000 acres of terrain in the vast Palm Springs region will be fun for ATV fans. Due to a large amount of room, there is much to see for drivers of all skill levels. For instance, novice riders can begin on flat terrain and undulating dunes, which are great for learning the basics of ATV operation.

Riders with greater experience should not pass up the opportunity to ride their ATV to the Devil's Slide for a more difficult outing with breathtaking scenery. The Palm Springs ATV trails are full of surprises, so choose a route appropriate for your riders' experience level before starting. When not exploring the trails, visit some of Palm Springs' world-class museums, shops, and other outdoor activities.

What Is The Fine For Riding An ATV On The Street In California

All-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, are a good way to enjoy California's outdoors. Riders drive off-highway vehicles in the ATV class only in permitted areas. ATV operation is subject to tight California restrictions designed to protect riders. In California, riding ATVs on the street without a permit attracts a fine of not below $125 and not more than $250.

Final Thoughts

California is a sure bet; you cannot go wrong there. You are guaranteed to find a path you like, whether you are a beginner who just got your first ATV or have won the King of The Hammers. Make sure the park or path is open by giving a call before you go. Closures without warning can be annoying, especially after driving halfway across the nation.