Of all the ways to enjoy the great outdoors, ATV riding in the wilderness is one of the most exhilarating. Not only is riding an ATV thrilling and fun, it also allows you to explore some areas that cannot be reached by car, giving you the opportunity to connect with nature in a whole new way.
Below we’ve compiled our top picks for places to go ATV riding in the US. Pick and choose from this list and you can’t go wrong.
Imperial Sand Dunes, California
Probably the best place to ride ATV toys in California is at Imperial Sand Dunes. This is a recreation area managed by the Bureau of Land Management and is often referred to as the Glamis Sand Dunes. The dunes here can be as much as 40 miles long and 5 miles wide, and they are tons of fun to ride on.
ATV events are held here each year and are exciting to be sure. That said, we find it just as fun to ride off into the tranquility of the desert and enjoy the beauty of this amazing place all on our own.
The weather at this location is almost always wonderful, meaning you can visit year-round. However, you must purchase a permit in order to ride the dunes. Weekly permits start at around $35, and seasonal permits are around $150.
Camping Near Imperial Sand Dunes
The BLM has several campgrounds located in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area. One of our favorites is Gecko Campground, which offers inexpensive dry camping and easy access to some seriously fun ATV riding. Because of the ATVs, the campground is not quiet, but that isn’t why people stay here!
RV Rentals Near Imperial Sand Dunes
Don’t have an RV of your own? Lucky for you, there are plenty of RV rentals near Imperial Sand Dunes. Many of these are toy haulers, making the ideal for hauling an ATV around.
Ocala National Forest, Florida
If you find yourself on the eastern side of the country, you might consider heading to the Ocala National Forest in the Florida panhandle. This place has more than 200 miles of ATV trails, making it an awesome place to do some exploring and experience the beauty of nature in a whole new way.
While the riding here is mostly flat (it is Florida, after all), there is plenty to look at as you ride by. Watch out for beautiful bodies of water and exotic plants. If you’re lucky, you might even see some local wildlife.
Passes must be purchased in order to ride an ATV on the Ocala National Forest Trails. There are 3-day, 7-day, and annual passes, and all can be purchased at Recreation.gov.
Camping in Ocala National Forest
As you might imagine, the National Forest Service offers quite a few camping options in the Ocala National Forest. Alexander Springs Campground is one excellent pick that can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet long. There are no RV hookups there, but hot showers and a dump station are available.
RV Rentals Near Ocala National Forest
Of course, you’ll need an RV in order to go RVing in Ocala National Forest. Fortunately, there are plenty of rental RVs available in the area. As mentioned above, we recommend a toy hauler.
Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota and Wyoming
The Black Hills area is one of the prettiest places in the US, and the Black Hills National Forest is no exception. This place is perfect for camping, hiking, and of course, off-road riding. More than 600 miles of trails are available for those on ATVs, meaning you won’t get tired of exploring the forest anytime soon.
As mentioned before, many people love to camp in this forest. Why not plan an overnight ATV trip and experience camping and ATV riding in Black Hills National Forest for yourself? Find the perfect campsite, cook a meal over a campfire, and really immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. The next morning, you can wake up bright and early and hit the trails.
Off-roading permits for this forest can be purchased online or in person at the Black Hills Visitor Center. 7-day and annual options are available, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs.
Camping in Black Hills National Forest
Wondering where to park an RV in Black Hills National Forest? Once again, the Forest Service provides plenty of awesome camping options. That said, we actually prefer the amenities offered at Mystic Hills Hideaway and the trail access is pretty hard to beat.
RV Rentals Near Black Hills National Forest
As far as an RV goes, we’ve got you covered with tons of great rental RVs in the Black Hills area. Bumper pull trailers are a popular option in this area, but there are plenty of motorhomes available as well.
Ride Royal Blue Resort, Tennessee
So far, every place we’ve mentioned to go on an ATV trip has been on government-owned land. If you’re looking for privately owned trails, Ride Royal Blue Resort in Tennessee is the place for you.
This resort is touted as one of the best ATV trip destinations in the US. Here you’ll discover over 600 miles of thrilling and scenic trails. Some of the sights you might see include waterfalls, wildlife, and of course, plenty of beautiful greenery. These tails are ranked based on difficulty, meaning you can choose a trail that is best suited to your skill level.
Camping in Ride Royal Blue Resort
RV camping is available at the resort, meaning you can stay and play in the same place. In addition to trails, the resort features a ton of awesome amenities, including ATV wash stations, a cafeteria, and more.
RV Rentals Near Ride Royal Blue Resort
RV rentals in this area include both trailers and motorhomes. For ATV riding, we recommend a toy hauler trailer, which can be either a bumper pull or a fifth wheel. Some of the toy haulers listed near Ride Royal Blue Resort are super small, making them easy to tow. That said, many are quite large, meaning plenty of living space.
Hidden Falls Adventure Park, Texas
Another absolutely fantastic place to take an ATV vacation is Hidden Falls Adventure Park in Texas. This is another privately owned resort, and is an absolute blast to experience.
Like Ride Royal Blue mentioned above, this resort also rates their trails according to difficulty and there is something for everyone, including brand-new beginners and seasoned pros. All of the trails are well marked, so you won’t be surprised by any unsuspected challenges, meaning even young children can have a good time.
Camping in Hidden Falls Adventure Park
Hidden Falls offers onsite RV parking, meaning it is easy to take an ATV trip. Rates are reasonable, and ATV rentals are available nearby if needed.
RV Rentals Near Hidden Falls Adventure Park
The area around Hidden Falls Adventure Park offers plenty of RV rental options. Bumper pulls are the most common rental option here and are the perfect homes base for your ATV adventure, especially if you can snag a toy hauler version.
The Paiute ATV Trail, Utah
Considered by many to be the best ATV trail system in the country, Paiute ATV Trail System in Utah is a bucket list item for most hardcore ATV enthusiasts. The main loop trail at this location is 200 miles long, but there are a total of more than 2,000 miles of trails all combined! Whether you’re looking for something easy and gentle or something a bit more adventurous, this place has an option for you.
Enjoy riding your ATV with other fanatics? The towns surrounding this trail system will often host ATV gatherings, meaning you can meet others with the same hobby. Additionally, the towns cater to off-roaders and their vehicles, so you’re sure to feel comfortable as you explore.
Depending on where you decide to ride, an “America the Beautiful” pass or state park fee might be required.
Camping Near the Paiute ATV Trail
Marysvale is an excellent place to set up camp when exploring the Paiute ATV Trail. Our favorite RV park in the town?South Forty RV Park. This park is well maintained with everything you need for a comfortable stay. It is a day trip away from some of Utah’s national park and you can access the Paiute trail from the campground.
RV Rentals Near the Paiute ATV Trail
Knowing how popular Utah is with RVers, it should come as no surprise that Marysvale offers tons of great rental RVs. From bunkhouse trailers to class A motorhomes, there is something for everyone in this area.
Moab, Utah
Also in Utah is the town of Moab. This amazing little town is all about outdoor adventures, including hiking, rock climbing, and off-roading. Not only will you find miles of off-roading trails all around the town, you’ll also find plenty of adventurers just like yourself in the adorable downtown area once you’re done exploring.
We love that Arches National Park and Canyon Lands National Park are just down the road. Even though no ATVs are allowed in the parks, we highly recommend visiting them during your trip.
Are you new to off-roading? Moab is a great place to begin. You’ll find plenty of ATV trip tours that include the rental of an ATV, so all you have to do is show up ready for adventure!
Camping Near Moab
As far as camping goes, we recommend boondocking somewhere right outside of town. There are plenty of amazing boondocking spots available, all are free, and most offer incredible views. That said, Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Getaway is also a great option for ATV riders since you can access trails without loading up a trailer.
RV Rentals Near Moab
Moab is another super popular RV destination. Therefore, you can expect to find plenty of rental RVs in and around the town. These include teeny tiny trailers for one or two, bigger trailers for the whole family, and some motorhomes.
Capitol State Forest, Washington
If you’ve never experienced the rainforests of the northwest, it’s high time you did. What better way to explore this magical landscape than on an ATV? In Capitol State Forest in Washington, this is totally possible and 100% encouraged.
This forest covers 100,000 acres, meaning there is plenty to explore, including more than 80 miles of off-road trails. The trails are well maintained and surrounded by awe-inspiring sights such as moss-covered trees, sparkling streams, and green plant life all around.
Camping in Capitol State Forest
We highly recommend staying at the Middle Waddell Campground inside the forest. This campground does not offer hookups, so you will need to be prepared for dry camping, but it is beautiful and offers quick and easy access to the trail system.
RV Rentals Near Capitol State Forest
With over 800 rental RVs to choose from near the Capitol State Forest, we are confident you’ll be able to find a rig that suits your needs. We especially love the many toy hauler trailers that are available for rent.
Hatfield-McCoy Trail System, West Virginia
Last but definitely not least, there is the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System. This is a system of privately owned trails in southern West Virginia that ATV enthusiasts absolutely adore.
The trails offer more than 700 miles of adventure in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Rocky ridge trails? You’ll find them here. Mud bogging opportunities? They’re here as well. No matter what kind of fun you’re seeking out, you’re sure to find it here.
One of our favorite experiences at the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System is the National TrailFest which happens every year in October. This event focuses on off-roading and includes a parade, fireworks, ATV racing, and much more.
Camping Near the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
There are several campgrounds along the Hatfield-McCoy trail system. One that we highly recommend is Hatfield’s Hideout Riverfront Cabins and Campground. This park offers direct access to the trails and pull through full hookup sites for a comfortable camping experience.
RV Rentals Near the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
There are a number of great RV rentals near the Hatfield-McCoy trail system. There include bumper pull toy haulers, fifth wheel toy haulers, and even some super small toy hauler trailers that can be towed by most trucks and SUVs.
Of course, in order to go ATV riding, you’ll need a way to get your ATV to your destination. This is where our toy hauler RV rentals come into play. We have a number of toy hauler options, so you’re sure to find something that suits your needs. Why not check them out now?
