Offroad Trails in Arkansas

Arkansas is an off-roader's paradise, with privately managed trails and off-road networks tucked away in its state and national parks. A range of different trail networks ensures there's always an off-road passage to explore in Arkansas, whether you're new to off-roading or a seasoned rider. You'll also find Arkansas Jeep trails, Arkansas ATV trails, and trails for many off-highway vehicles. With riders spoiled for choice, deciding where to visit next can be challenging. We profile six of the best off-road trails in Arkansas.

Ozark National Forest, Russellville

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Ozark National Forest is one of the most legendary spots for off-roading in Arkansas, and with good reason. Nestled in the iconic Ozark Mountains, the off-road trail through the forest is one of the most beautiful you'll see. The site includes a mix of relaxed trails and technical paths for riders who love to push their skills to the limit.

While the forest has its trail network, many ATV riders can't resist the well-manicured trails of Byrd's Adventure Center. This trail center in the heart of the Ozarks features a range of different trails, from easy trails for novices to hair-raising Red Trails. Only attempt the latter if you're a confident rider with a high-horsepower, full-cage OHV.

Ouachita National Forest, Hot Springs

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The experts at Off-Roading Pro insist that Ouachita National Forest offers the state's best off-roading experience. Pay attention to the signs. Some trails work well for vehicles, including Jeeps and ATVs with a maximum width of 64 inches. Others accommodate mountain bikers and hikers, while others are reserved only for foot traffic. The off-road riding areas are all shared zones. Stick to a reasonable speed and be courteous to other trail users.

While you can't explore the entire forest in your off-road vehicle, you'll find plenty of variety here. Test yourself on the water crossings at Angling Creek or admire the striking Flatside Wilderness and Pinnacle areas on Forest Road 94. Trails around Muse Mountain, North Fork Saline River, and North Fork Pinnacle also offer varied terrain and gorgeous views. When you've finished riding for the day, set up camp at the tranquil Cedar Creek Lake. You can fish, kayak, or swim here, or take a break and admire the scenery around you.

Hot Springs ORV Park, Hot Springs

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While you're at Hot Springs, it's worth stopping by Hot Springs ORV Park, a 1.254-acre site with a maze of challenging off-road trails. The park welcomes all types of off-road vehicles, including ATVs, UTVs, four-wheelers, dirt bikes, and mountain bikes. Signs list the degree of difficulty for dirt bikes, ATVs, and larger vehicles, so you can make sure you stay within your limits. Of course, this difficulty scale doesn't stop people from getting into trouble on Fun Run G3, the most challenging of the three Jeep “badge of honor” trails.

Hot Springs ORV Park has cabins, space for RVs and tents, an on-site shower block, and a convenience store for visitors who want to enjoy an extended off-roading getaway. Time your visit to coincide with one of the park's annual events, such as the Southern Cruiser Crawl or Turkey Run around Thanksgiving.

Rock Creek Racing and Recreation Off-Road Park, Booneville

If it's rocky terrain you're after, you can't go past Rock Creek Racing and Recreation Off-Road Park. This 880-acre park features 50 different rock-crawling trails, from easy trails that require little experience to death-defying trails that require setups with a full cage and racing harness. If you prefer a different type of terrain, explore the park's wooded trails, open pastures, and creek crossings. A dirt drag strip lets you put your OHV to the test, while a motocross track with large jumps pushes dirt bikers to their limits.

Rock Creek Racing and Recreation Off-Road Park is a family-owned park that strives to be somewhere parents can happily bring their kids for old-fashioned bonding time. Powered campsites with running water suit tents and RVs.

Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park, Kingston

Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park offers one of the state's more distinctive off-roading experiences, and not just because there's an American bison herd on the site. The park, which spans more than 3,000 acres, features more than a dozen waterfalls. You can ride up to most, and ride over some, ensuring your experience here is one you won't quickly forget. Some trails suit large vehicles such as ATVs and side-by-sides, while others restrict occupants to two-wheelers and hikers.

Day passes cost $30 for four-wheelers carrying only a driver. If you're transporting another passenger, the cost is an extra $10 per passenger. Dirt bike riders enjoy a discounted daily rate of $20. If you plan on visiting regularly, an annual pass is of excellent value. You can also stay at one of the ranch's two campsites.

Carter Off-Road Park, Alexander

Established in 2014, Carter Off-Road Park is a relative newcomer to the Arkansas off-roading scene, but it's quickly made its presence felt. This private park, spread over more than 1,000 acres, has plenty to keep you entertained, including ATV trails winding through the woods, hill climbs, and pits for mud bogging. On-site accommodations range from simple campsites to treehouse cabins and castle rooms. The park operates seven days a week, 24 hours a day so that you can make the most of your stay.

For the ultimate Carter Off-Road Park experience, visit during Mud Daze. During this annual summer event, the park hosts country music artists, mega trucks, Barbie Jeep races, food vendors, and heaps more.

The ultimate adventure deserves the ultimate soundtrack, so make sure your ATV, UTV, side-by-side, or other off-road vehicle has powersports audio equipment from Wet Sounds. Wet Sounds makes its audio equipment rugged, so you never have to worry about it getting damaged while you're having off-road fun. It also creates quality sound equipment, a must-have item for any audiophile. Shop from the convenience of your home and get all the audio gear you need when you're off-roading in Arkansas. 

Title Tag: Top Off-Road Trails in Arkansas | Wet Sounds

Meta Description: Discover some of the best off-road trails in Arkansas for extreme outdoor recreation pushing your ATV, UTV, trail bike, or an off-road vehicle to its limit.