ATV Trails and Riding Areas in Mississippi

Mississippi does not have natural "ATV tracks" but offers an extensive network of designated off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails across its national forests, state parks, and recreation areas. These managed trails provide legal, sustainable riding opportunities.

Major OHV Trail Systems

Homochitto National Forest (Southwest)

• Trail mileage: 100+ miles of designated OHV trails.
• Terrain: Piney woods, hardwood bottoms, rolling hills, stream crossings.
• Access: Multiple trailheads off US-84, US-98, MS-33. Day-use fee ($5) or annual pass.
• Camping: Clear Springs Recreation Area (developed), dispersed camping permitted.

Holly Springs National Forest (North-Central)

• Trail mileage: 50+ miles.
• Terrain: Rolling hills, valleys, mixed pine-hardwood, some technical sections.
• Access: Trailheads near Holly Springs, Potts Camp. Fee required.
• Notable: Baker's Pond area; connects to wider forest road network.

Bienville National Forest (East-Central)

• Trail mileage: 30+ miles.
• Terrain: Pine-hardwood forests, scenic streams, moderate elevation change.
• Access: Forest roads off I-20 (Forest, Morton exits).
• Camping: Shongelo Recreation Area (developed sites).

Clarkco State Park (Southwest, near Quitman)

• Trails: Several miles of designated ATV trails through forests, fields, wetlands.
• Facilities: Camping, fishing lake, picnic areas. State park entry fee.

Red Hill Recreation Area (Northwest, near Blue Mountain)

• Trails: Varied off-road routes including ATV-suitable trails.
• Terrain: Hills, hollows, mixed forest. Less developed, more "wild" character.

Regulations and Best Practices

• Permits/Fees: Most USFS areas require OHV permit (daily/annual). State parks: entry fee.
• Vehicle requirements: Spark arrestor, muffler, width restrictions (typically ≤50" or ≤65" depending on trail class).
• Seasonal closures: Wet weather, hunting seasons, resource protection.
• Stay on designated trails: Off-trail riding damages ecosystems, risks closures.
• Youth operators: MS law requires safety certificate for <16 on public land; helmet mandatory.

Check National Forests in Mississippi or MDWFP for current conditions, maps, and permit purchase before riding.