My First Taste Of Taking Our SXS Off-Roading in Ohio and Beyond
I’m pretty new to the world of off-road adventures, but after one ride in a side-by-side, I was completely hooked. There’s something about the way your heart jumps when the tires spin through thick mud or the way you feel your stomach drop (in a good way) when you climb a steep hill. It’s like being a kid again—only louder, faster, and a little muddier.
I started out nervous—worried I’d mess up, take a wrong turn, or flip the thing. But once I got behind the wheel, it was pure adrenaline. Now, I spend my weekends chasing dirt and trails, and I’ve found some awesome spots that I can’t wait to go back to.
APV and Other Off-Road Adventures in Ohio State Forests
Wayne National Forest – Ohio’s Premier Off-Road Destination
This was my first real ride, and it set the bar high. Wayne National Forest ATV trails offer over 100 miles of terrain, and there’s something for everyone—smooth trails, rocky climbs, creek splashes, and tight turns through the woods. It’s one of the top answers when you search for “off-road trails near me”, and I can see why. You’ll need an OHV permit, but that just helps keep the trails in good shape. I finished the ride grinning like a fool, mud from head to toe.
Perry State Forest – Tight, Technical, and Free
Perry is one of those places you discover once you start diving into forums and posts about ATV riding in Ohio. It’s smaller, about 16 miles of trail, but it’s free and perfect for side-by-sides and ATVs if you want something short, rugged, and challenging. The first time I rode there, I definitely white-knuckled a few tight turns. But once you settle in, it’s a fun little thrill ride. Great for beginners who want to build confidence.
For up to date information on riding in the state forests, check out this page at the ODNR website.
Off-Road Adventures Worth the Drive: From Wild Trails to Underground Thrills
I haven’t had the opportunity to eperience some of these off road trails but from what I hear, they are worth visiting and I bet it won’t be just once.
Outlaw Extreme in Waynesburg, OH – Wild and Raw
If you’re into that “off-the-grid” vibe, Outlaw Extreme is your park. I found it while searching for private off-road parks in Ohio. There are no big crowds, no frills, just you, the dirt, and a trail system that keeps you on your toes. It’s not as polished as the state forests, but that’s the appeal. It’s one of the few places where you can really test your SxS without holding back.
Mines and Meadows, PA – Underground Off-Road Adventures
Want to say you’ve ridden through a pitch-black, echo-filled mine on an ATV? You can at Mines and Meadows ATV Park in Pennsylvania. I didn’t even know underground ATV trails were a thing until I checked this place out. You will ever have. If you’re itching to try unique side-by-side trails near Ohio, this place should be on your list.
Hatfield-McCoy Trails, WV – Bucket List Riding
When someone says “bucket list” in the off-road world, this is what they’re talking about. I haven’t hit all 700 miles of trail (yet), but the ones I have tackled were unforgettable. Long climbs, switchbacks, scenic overlooks—it has everything. It’s also the first time I felt like my SxS was being truly tested.
No SxS or ATV Yet? You Can Still Ride
If you’re new to off-road adventures and don’t have a machine yet, you can still get in on the action. There are some solid ATV and side-by-side rentals in Ohio that are beginner-friendly and don’t require experience:
- Adventure Pro Outdoors (Nelsonville) – Offers guided SxS rentals in Wayne National Forest. Discover more about this resource at Compass Ohio.
- BigFoot ATV Adventures (New Straitsville) – Great spot with pros who’ll guide you through the ride.
Things I’ve Learned to be Safe on My Off-Road Adventures
- Bring the right gear—helmet, gloves, goggles, and maybe a dry change of clothes.
- Watch the weather—ATV trails in Ohio, after rain, can turn into a whole different kind of fun.
- Don’t ride solo—especially if you’re on unfamiliar trails.
- Take breaks—it’s more physical than it looks, and your arms will thank you.
If you’re even a little curious about off-roading, go try it. There’s something freeing about leaving the pavement behind and getting a little dirty. I never expected to love it as much as I do, but now I look forward to every chance to fire up the engine and hit the trail.
It’s not just about the ride. It’s about the laughs, the “did-you-see-that” moments, the mud-caked boots, and the stories you’ll tell for years.
Let’s ride.
