Best Places to Ride Your Dirt Bike in California
Explore the best places to ride your dirt bike in California with our comprehensive guide. From challenging desert terrain to picturesque mountain trails, California offers a diverse range of top dirt bike locations. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for a new adventure or a beginner seeking a fun and scenic ride, we've got you covered. Discover hidden gem trails, popular off-road parks, and adrenaline-pumping tracks that cater to all skill levels. So grab your gear, rev up your engine, and hit the open road to experience some of the top dirt bike locations California has to offer.
1. Glamis Sand Dunes (Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area)
Location: Near Brawley, Imperial County
If you love sand riding, Glamis is the mecca. These massive dunes stretch for miles, offering wide-open riding, steep climbs, and fast-paced fun. It’s one of the most famous off-road destinations in the world, drawing riders from across the U.S. Glamis is best in the cooler months (fall through spring), as summer temperatures can be extreme. Don’t forget your whip flag—it’s required for visibility in the dunes.
Why Ride Here:
- Largest sand dune system in California
- Open riding with no marked trails
- A legendary destination for dirt bike and ATV enthusiasts
2. Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA)
Location: East of Borrego Springs, San Diego County
Spanning over 85,000 acres, Ocotillo Wells is a desert rider’s playground. You’ll find whoop sections, rock climbs, mud hills, and sandy washes. It’s one of the most popular spots in Southern California, and it has areas for all skill levels. Camping is free, and there are plenty of wide-open spaces to set up for a weekend adventure.
Why Ride Here:
- Huge variety of terrain
- Free camping and open riding areas
- Easy access from San Diego, Orange County, and L.A.
3. Hollister Hills SVRA
Location: Near Hollister, Central California
Hollister Hills is one of California’s most rider-friendly SVRAs. With distinct areas for different skill levels, you can find mellow trails for beginners and gnarly single-tracks for advanced riders. The Upper Ranch (dedicated to dirt bikes) has miles of trails weaving through oak woodlands and rolling hills. Plus, there are camping facilities and bathrooms—making it a great weekend family spot.
Why Ride Here:
- Designated dirt bike-only trails
- Beginner, intermediate, and advanced routes
- On-site amenities and camping
4. Carnegie SVRA
Location: Near Livermore, East Bay
Carnegie SVRA is a classic spot for Northern California riders. It has steep hill climbs, motocross tracks, and technical trails. Riders love it for practicing climbs and challenging themselves on the tougher terrain. The landscape is dry and rugged, giving you a true off-road experience.
Why Ride Here:
- Great for hill climbs and technical riding
- Close to the Bay Area
- Variety of trails and play areas
5. Stonyford OHV Area (Mendocino National Forest)
Location: Northern California, west of Chico
If you’re looking for endless single-track trails, Stonyford is the place. With over 200 miles of trails ranging from easy forest roads to tight, rocky climbs, this area is a favorite for more experienced riders. The scenery is breathtaking, with trails cutting through pine forests, streams, and high ridges.
Why Ride Here:
- Huge network of trails
- Great mix of technical and flowy routes
- Beautiful forest scenery
6. Hungry Valley SVRA
Location: Gorman, Los Angeles County
Just north of Los Angeles, Hungry Valley is the second-largest SVRA in California. It offers over 130 miles of trails across rolling hills, sandy washes, and scrub brush. It’s very family-friendly, with areas for beginners as well as challenging tracks for advanced riders.
Why Ride Here:
- Close to L.A. and easy weekend access
- Variety of trails and terrains
- Camping and picnic areas available
7. Kennedy Meadows (Sequoia National Forest)
Location: Eastern Sierra Nevada, Kern County
For riders who want cooler temps and mountain air, Kennedy Meadows is a must. It’s known for its scenic, high-elevation single-track trails winding through pine forests and meadows. Riding here feels like a true backcountry adventure. Because of snow, the season typically runs late spring through fall.
Why Ride Here:
- High-elevation mountain riding
- Famous single-track trails
- Cooler summer temps
8. Jawbone Canyon & Dove Springs
Location: Mojave Desert, near Ridgecrest
These areas offer wide-open desert riding with sand washes, rocky trails, and steep hills. Jawbone has a visitor center with maps and info, and Dove Springs is a popular spot for camping and staging. The terrain is rugged and diverse, making it ideal for exploring with friends.
Why Ride Here:
- Classic Mojave Desert riding
- Tons of camping options
- Linked trail systems to explore
Tips for Riding in California
- Get Your OHV Sticker: Most public riding areas require a California OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) sticker for your dirt bike.
- Check for Fire Restrictions: Especially in summer, fire danger can close trails or limit access.
- Ride with Safety Gear: Helmet, goggles, boots, gloves, and protective gear are essential.
- Respect the Land: Stay on designated trails when required and pack out what you pack in.
California is truly a dirt bike rider’s dream, offering everything from dunes and deserts to forests and mountains. Whether you’re after fast-paced dune riding at Glamis, technical single-track at Stonyford, or scenic mountain trails at Kennedy Meadows, there’s a spot that matches your riding style. Load up the bike, grab your gear, and get ready to explore the Golden State’s best dirt bike destinations.