Centennial OHV Trailhead
ATV, dirt bike, and off-road vehicle trails deep in Ocala National Forest — managed by the USDA Forest Service.
Quick Facts
Location
Within Ocala National Forest, accessible via SR 19 or SR 40. Contact the Lake George Ranger District for exact directions and current trailhead status.
Fees & Passes
Day-use fee required, or use an America the Beautiful Annual Pass. National Forests in Florida Annual OHV Pass also accepted. Verify current fees at fs.usda.gov.
Trail Types
The Ocala NF OHV network includes the Centennial Trail and Adventure Trail/Halfmoon Lake area, featuring a mix of sandy forest roads and designated OHV-only routes.
Trail Types & Difficulty Levels
Wide, flat forest roads with minimal obstacles. Good for new riders learning vehicle control and throttle management on sand.
Narrower trails with sand washes, loose terrain, and light brush. Requires basic off-road skills and confidence at moderate speeds.
Technical sections with deep sand, ruts, and challenging terrain features. Best for experienced riders with capable equipment.
Trail conditions in Ocala National Forest change frequently due to weather and maintenance. Always check current conditions with the ranger district before visiting.
Vehicle Types Allowed
ATVs
All-terrain vehicles up to designated width limits
Dirt Bikes
Motocross and trail motorcycles with spark arrestors
UTVs / Side-by-Sides
Subject to width and weight restrictions on some routes
4x4 Trucks
On designated multi-use OHV roads only
Rules & Safety
Helmets strongly recommended; required for minors under Florida law
Spark arrestors required on all OHV vehicles
Stay on designated trails — off-trail riding is prohibited
Observe posted speed limits and yield to pedestrians
Valid OHV permit or America the Beautiful Pass required
No alcohol or impaired riding
Pack out all trash — leave no trace
Minors must be supervised by a responsible adult
Forest Service rangers patrol OHV areas and enforce regulations. Violations can result in fines and loss of trail access privileges.
America the Beautiful Pass vs. Day-Use Fee
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
At ~$80/year (subject to change), the America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass covers entrance and day-use fees at federal recreation sites including National Forests. If you plan to visit multiple times or visit other national lands, this pass pays for itself quickly.
- Valid at all federal fee areas nationwide
- Covers the cardholder + 3 adults
- Available online at store.usgs.gov
Day-Use Fee
A single-day OHV fee can be purchased at self-pay stations at the trailhead. This is the most convenient option for first-time visitors or those making a one-time trip. Fees are posted at the entrance — verify current rates on the USDA Forest Service website before your visit.
- No advance purchase needed
- Cash or card at self-pay kiosks
- Best for occasional visitors
Best Times to Ride
Peak Season: October – April
This is the sweet spot for OHV riding in Ocala National Forest. Temperatures range from the 50s to mid-70s°F, humidity stays low, and afternoon thunderstorms are rare. Trail surfaces are firmer, and the forest is generally less crowded on weekdays.
Summer Riding (May – September)
Riding in summer is possible but requires extra preparation. Temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can create dangerous conditions. If you ride in summer, go early morning, carry plenty of water, and watch the sky carefully.
Tips for First-Time Riders
Call ahead
Contact the Lake George Ranger District at (352) 669-3153 to confirm trailhead status, current fees, and any closures before making the trip.
Bring a paper trail map
Cell service is limited in Ocala National Forest. Download offline maps or pick up a printed trail map at the trailhead.
Check your vehicle
Inspect tires, brakes, fluids, and spark arrestors before you load up. Breakdowns on remote forest trails are no fun.
Ride with a buddy
Solo riding in remote areas is risky. Always ride with at least one other person who knows where you are.
Pack water and snacks
There are no concession stands on the trail. Carry more water than you think you need — dehydration sneaks up fast in Florida heat.
Know your skill level
Start on easier trails to get a feel for the terrain. Deep sand and loose surfaces can challenge even experienced riders unfamiliar with Florida conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to ride ATVs at the Centennial OHV Trailhead?
Yes, a fee is required to access the OHV trail system in Ocala National Forest. You can pay with an America the Beautiful Annual Pass (which covers the day-use fee), a National Forests in Florida Annual OHV Pass, or a daily day-use fee. Florida residents may also qualify for discounted passes. Check the USDA Forest Service website for current fee information before your visit.
What types of vehicles are allowed on Ocala National Forest OHV trails?
The OHV trail network in Ocala National Forest accommodates ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), dirt bikes and dual-sport motorcycles, UTVs and side-by-sides, and some 4x4 vehicles on designated routes. Not all trails are open to all vehicle types — width and weight restrictions apply on certain routes. Always check current trail designations posted at the trailhead before riding.
Are helmets required at the Centennial OHV Trailhead?
Helmet use is strongly recommended and may be required for minors under Florida law. USDA Forest Service rules also require OHV operators to have a spark arrestor on their vehicle. Riders should follow all federal, state, and local regulations. The Forest Service may enforce safety gear requirements, so always check current rules on the USDA website or contact the Ocala National Forest ranger district.
What is the best time of year to ride OHV trails in Ocala National Forest?
The ideal riding season is October through April, when temperatures are cooler (50s–70s°F), humidity is lower, and trail conditions are generally firmer and drier. Summer months bring intense heat, high humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms that can make trails muddy and riding uncomfortable. Always check trail conditions before heading out, as heavy rain can temporarily close sections.
How do I get to the Centennial OHV Trailhead in Ocala National Forest?
The Centennial OHV Trailhead is located within Ocala National Forest, accessible via SR 19 or SR 40 depending on your approach. Since exact GPS coordinates can vary by mapping service, it is best to check the USDA Forest Service Ocala National Forest website or call the Lake George Ranger District at (352) 669-3153 for current directions and trailhead status before your trip.