Centennial OHV Trailhead
The northern access point to the 47-mile Ocala Centennial OHV Trail — a loop trail system in the Ocala National Forest, dedicated in 2008 during Ocala's centennial year. ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles under 65” wide; 20 mph speed limit. Routes through the Big Scrub ecosystem.
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
What is the Ocala Centennial OHV Trail?
The Ocala Centennial OHV Trail is a 47-mile loop trail system for off-highway vehicles in the Ocala National Forest. It was dedicated in 2008 — Ocala's centennial year — and is the trail system's namesake. The Centennial OHV Trailhead is the primary northern access point; the Wandering Wiregrass OHV Trailhead is a separate southern access. The trail runs through the Big Scrub ecosystem — the largest contiguous sand pine scrub in the world — in the heart of the Ancient Island Scrub.
What vehicles are allowed on the Centennial OHV Trail system?
The Centennial OHV Trail is for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles. UNLICENSED vehicles must be LESS THAN 65 INCHES WIDE. A 20-mph speed limit is enforced on the entire trail system. The trail is not open to street-legal 4x4 trucks or full-size vehicles.
Do I need a permit to ride the Centennial OHV Trail?
Yes, a pass is required. Options include an America the Beautiful Annual Pass (covers day-use), a National Forests in Florida Annual OHV Pass, or a daily day-use fee. All riders also need safety gear. Riders under 16 must pass an online safety course before riding. Check the USDA Forest Service website or call the Lake George Ranger District at (352) 669-3153 for current fees and requirements.
Are there places to stop and rest on the Centennial OHV Trail?
Yes. The trail connects to two designated day-use sites where riders can take a break for fishing, wading, picnicking, and wildlife viewing: Blue Sink and Farles Prairie. Special OHV parking corrals are located periodically along the trail so riders can stop at these day-use sites or at Big Scrub Campground for overnight stays. Big Scrub Campground is accessible directly from the trail system.
Are helmets required?
Helmet use is strongly recommended and may be required for minors under Florida law. USDA Forest Service rules require OHV operators to have a spark arrestor on their vehicle. Follow all federal, state, and local OHV safety regulations.
What is the best time of year to ride?
October through April is the ideal riding season: cooler temperatures (50s–70s°F), lower humidity, firmer/drier trail conditions. Summer brings intense heat, high humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms that can make trails muddy and riding uncomfortable. Always check trail conditions before heading out; heavy rain can temporarily close sections.
How do I get to the Centennial OHV Trailhead?
The Centennial OHV Trailhead is in the Ocala National Forest, accessible via SR 19 or SR 40. Because exact GPS coordinates can vary by mapping service, 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.