ATV Trails: An Ozark Adventure
Off Road Trails in the Missouri Mark Twain National Forest
Jun 27, 2007
In southern Missouri, just south-east of the city of Ozark, lies a well established section of the Mark Twain National Forest in part of the Ozark Mountains. Thick green forest and lush undergrowth fill the view in one of the State of Missouri’s most beautiful areas. Many miles of dusty, rocky ATV and dirt bike trails crisscross the forested area of the Chadwick Motorcycle and ATV Area. Whether one is looking for pleasant rides on easy trails or hard riding on rocky hills, which can dent rims, Mark Twain National Forest won’t disappoint.
Approaching the forest from the north, the highway travels through the town of Chadwick. A stop at the gas station for fuel and permits, and it’s only a few miles on to the forests entrances.
Riding Permit Costs
Season $35 Daily $5
Camping
The first entrance along the road is the Camp Ridge entrance. This area allows for day parking and picnicking, with trail access. The main campground is located just in the second entrance named Cobb Ridge, which is a little further down the highway from Camp Ridge. The well established campground of Cobb Ridge is fully equipped with facilities and plenty of space for larger RV’s. Cobb Ridge Recreation Area was built in a perfect camping location within the trees of the forest, allowing for plenty of shade during the hot day. Located close by the Cobb Ridge Recreation Area is a small family play area, established with the young rider in mind. As in most campgrounds, spots fill up quickly, just before the weekend begins.
Trails
A map of the riding trails is available through the forest service or at the gas station in Chadwick. Off road trails are numbered and consist of three levels of difficulty, but most are passable by even the novice rider. A few of the rock hills offer a real riding challenge. Trails run along ridge tops and in forested hollows with even a few creek beds. Overall the trail system is well maintained and established. Some trails have had extensive restoration and maintenance work done on them and consist of interlocking stone which makes the trail stable and prevents washouts by rain. Trails can be narrow so always watch out for other riders. Caves are not uncommon along the trail system with one, Rattlesnake Cave, large enough for the daring explorer to enter. Wild life is abundant, from a large variety of birds to deer and black bear. The all-around experience equals pleasant riding and camping, with warm days and comfy nights. It is important to stay on the trails. Riding areas will remain open as long as the rules are followed.
Nearby Activities
Big city life is not far away. Ozark is close by, and of course the Branson area, with all of the available entertainment and shows. A trip into Ozark, or Branson, or Silver Dollar City, can give the body a rest from many hours of trail riding.
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