Is Sam Houston National Forest OHV Trails open year-round?

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

What vehicles are allowed?

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

USFS · US Forest ServiceIntermediate (3/5)

Sam Houston National Forest OHV Trails

New Waverly, TX

Length

85 mi

Season

Year-round (rain closures common spring)

Day-use fee

Permit

Required

Trail difficulty

Intermediate · 3/5

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

Vehicle types allowed

UTVSide-by-sideATVDirt bike

Permit and access

Permit required

USFS Recreation Pass $5/day required; vehicles must be USFS-decaled.

Known hazards

Deep mud after rain
Ticks + chiggers
Hunting seasons — wear orange

Editorial tip

Check the USFS trail status hotline before driving — heavy rain triggers closures with little notice in this district.

— 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.

US Forest Service page

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/texas/recarea/?recid=29973

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Plan the trip

Need a rig for this trail?

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Questions about Sam Houston National Forest OHV Trails

Is Sam Houston National Forest OHV Trails open year-round?: Season: Year-round (rain closures common spring). Always verify current trail status with the managing agency before traveling.
Do I need a permit to ride Sam Houston National Forest OHV Trails?: Yes — USFS Recreation Pass $5/day required; vehicles must be USFS-decaled.
What vehicles are allowed?: Allowed vehicle types: 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