ATV Rules of the Road

Before You Rev That Engine

We love a good ride as much as anyone, but in Beavers Bend Cabin Country, there are a few ground rules (and we mean that literally) to keep the trails safe, the land healthy, and the fun going for years to come.

The Ouachita National Forest (Ouachita WMA) is the only spot in McCurtain County where off-highway vehicles (OHVs) are legal for public use. The Honobia Creek Wildlife Management Area and Three Rivers Wildlife Management Area allow ATV riding only to help hunters get around during deer season—and you’ll need a deer hunting license for that.

OHVs include ATVs, 4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, UTVs (like Mules), and motorcycles.

Before You Go

Call the local Forest Service office at 580-494-6402, check USFS Ouachita OHV info, and review the current Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). That’s your green light for where you can ride.

The Rules (Read ‘Em, Remember ‘Em, Ride By ‘Em)

Speed Limit

• 25 MPH on the Ouachita WMA and all other WMAs — for all vehicles, ATVs included.

Equipment Requirements

• All OHVs must have a USFS-approved spark arrestor in working order.
• Loud, modified exhausts? Nope. They’re prohibited and may violate ODWC rules for Department Managed Lands.

Alcohol

• No alcoholic beverages or low-point beer allowed in the Ouachita National Forest.

Where You Can (and Can’t) Ride

• OHVs are only allowed on National Forest roads marked “OPEN” for ATV use on the current MVUM.
• If it’s not on the MVUM as “OPEN,” it’s closed. Past use doesn’t count as permission.
• Avoid forest floor riding — it’s prohibited north and south of Hwy 70 in Beavers Bend.
• Only ~33 miles of forest roads are open to ATVs (plus a few seasonal miles). Call the Forest Service if you’re unsure.

Trail & Terrain Restrictions

• No riding on hiking, mountain biking, or equestrian-only trails.
• Only motorcycles are allowed on the Indian Nations Trail in LeFlore County.
• No driving on powerlines, pipelines, seismic lines, fire lines, or railroad rights-of-way.
• No driving on or crossing paved roads.
• No riding in streambeds, creek beds, lake beds, or along shorelines.

Rider Safety

• Helmets are required for anyone under 18.
• No passengers unless the OHV was designed to carry them (after-market mods don’t count).
• Wear eye protection, boots, and gloves.
• Yield to horseback riders — stop and give them the right of way.

Why These Rules Exist

Heavy or irresponsible OHV use can:

• Damage watersheds
• Destroy habitats
• Harm native plants and animals
• Pollute streams and rivers

By sticking to the rules, you’re protecting the land and making sure ATV access sticks around. Riding in closed areas can lead to fines or even jail time.

Seasonal & Hunting-Specific Rulez

• As of August 1, 2008, OHV riding in Three Rivers WMA and Honobia Creek WMA is prohibited except for licensed deer hunters from Oct. 1 – Jan. 15.
• During that time, OHV riders must wear fluorescent orange on the chest and head. If you’re wearing a crash helmet, only the chest covering is required.
• Check the Oklahoma Hunting Guide for full restrictions.

Quick Contacts

Forest Service Office: 580-494-6402
Ouachita National Forest OHV Recreation Info

Ride smart. Ride safe. And get here already.