Is Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area open year-round?

Season: Year-round (mud after rain). Always verify current trail status with the managing agency before traveling.

What vehicles are allowed?

Allowed vehicle types: Jeep, UTV, Side-by-side, ATV, Dirt bike. Always confirm street-legal and OHV-registration requirements for your state.

Private · Private operatorAdvanced (4/5)

Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area

Gilmer, TX

Difficulty 4/5 — Advanced terrain

This trail typically requires a winch, spotter, and at least one buddy vehicle. Carry recovery gear, communication (GMRS/satellite), and ride within your skill level. Solo travel is strongly discouraged. Verify current trail status with the managing agency before going.

Length

100 mi

Season

Year-round (mud after rain)

Day-use fee

$20

Permit

Required

Trail difficulty

Advanced · 4/5

Rated on PickRV's editorial 1 (novice) to 5 (extreme) scale.

Vehicle types allowed

JeepUTVSide-by-sideATVDirt bike

Permit and access

Permit required

Operated by Texas Motorized Trails Coalition; day pass ~$20 per machine.

Known hazards

Mud bogs
Rock crawls
Heat + humidity

Editorial tip

TMTC-member supported; great east-TX network of trails graded green/blue/black like a ski hill. Stay on signed routes — adjacent land is private.

— PickRV editorial team

Official managing-agency source

Trail conditions, permit rates, and seasonal closures change. Always verify the current state of this trail with the managing agency before you ride.

Private operator page

https://barnwellmountain.com/

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Plan the trip

Need a rig for this trail?

Browse off-road rentals in Texas as verified hosts onboard. Inventory varies by season and host availability.

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Questions about Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area

Is Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area open year-round?: Season: Year-round (mud after rain). Always verify current trail status with the managing agency before traveling.
Do I need a permit to ride Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area?: Yes — Operated by Texas Motorized Trails Coalition; day pass ~$20 per machine.
What vehicles are allowed?: Allowed vehicle types: Jeep, UTV, Side-by-side, ATV, Dirt bike. Always confirm street-legal and OHV-registration requirements for your state.

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Texas rules · last verified 2026-05-10

Rental tax: 10.00%
Min driver age: 18+ std · 21+ Class A
Gravel roads: Allowed — disclosure required
Generator quiet: 22:00-08:00