ATV Riding In Florida

Florida has so much to offer the ATV rider in terms of scenery and terrain variety. From the swamplands to the coastal dunes, riders can see a variety of biomes and wildlife as they take on the miles of trail systems available to them. Sky Powersports of Lakeland has gathered some information on three of the state forests that provide off-roading trails for ATV riders so that you can plan a great day’s riding or even a weekend camping trip with your quads in tow.

Florida’s ATV Trail Systems

Florida provides a few different options for places to ride four wheelers or OHVs (off-highway vehicles). These areas are mainly in the central and northern parts of the state. We’ve detailed a few of the most popular ones below.

Tate’s Hell State Forest Trails

Tate’s Hell is a massive expanse of swampy forested land on the Florida panhandle, just off the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. There is a designated OHV trail system spanning over 150 miles through the forest, letting riders have first-hand views of cypress swamps, pine flatwoods and blackwater rivers, including all the beautiful wildlife that calls this region home. Tate’s Hell also provides a small campground for simple camping without electric hook ups specifically for OHV riders.

Clear Creek Riding Area at Blackwater State Forest

The Clear Creek Riding Area within the Whiting Field region of the Blackwater River State Forest provides riders of motorcycles and ATVs with plenty of trails in the northwest corner of the state. Blackwater River State Forest is Florida’s largest forest and the park includes both primitive and amenity-laden campsites as well as lake fishing. The trails for motorcycles are separated from the ones for ATVs with one trail for both, and they’re color-coded on the map for ease of use. The staging area is centrally located within the trail area for easy access.

Croom Motorcycle Area at Withlacoochee State Forest

WIth 2600 acres of space, this off-roading area offers miles of trails for powersports enthusiasts eager to get some time on their quads. Nestled in the Withlacoochee State Forest in west-central Florida, this area offers campgrounds with access to wildlife watching, hiking, canoeing and horseback riding in addition to its two day-use areas with ATV trail access: Hammock and Sand Hill.

Florida State Forest Rules For ATVs

Before you go to one of these state parks, know that OHV permits are required for all ATVs operating in state forests, and you may purchase these at the trailhead gatehouses or offices of the forest you’re entering. Your ATV must also be titled to receive a permit. You must tow your four wheeler to the staging area of the park you’re riding in and then drive it at a low speed to the trail. The speed limit in Florida state forests is 30 mph, and off-road vehicle riders are required to follow all traffic signs and laws. Sound levels must be limited to 96 db(A) and all quads must have spark arrestors that are approved by the Forest Service.

Responsible ATV Riding

When you’re on your ATV, you should follow some basic safety rules. Wear a helmet, long pants and sleeves, gloves and sturdy boots. Don’t drink or use recreational drugs or even prescription drugs that might affect your focus and reflexes. Be aware of animals, hikers and campers who you may encounter on the trails and slow down while you steer clear of them. Don’t go off designated trail areas or you could do damage to wildlife and their environment. Ride only during daylight hours and in good weather conditions so your visibility isn’t impeded. Always supervise children operating ATVs. Wash your ATV before and after you ride in a state forest to prevent the spread of invasive species. You should pack up all your waste if it cannot be disposed of properly on the trail and pick up any trash you see.

Are you in the market for a new or used ATV to take out on the trails? Come down to our Lakeland showroom to see the great quads we have in stock. Does your current ATV need professional repairs or parts? Call or visit us to schedule maintenance with our service department. Sky Powersports serves the nearby cities of Tampa, Orlando and Brandon, Florida.