Off Roading in Maryland - Some Good. Some Bad.

Off-Roading in Maryland

Maryland offers a limited number of designated off-road vehicle areas, with most public trail access managed through state forests, seasonal schedules, and permit requirements.

Before planning a trip, confirm current trail status, vehicle requirements, closures, and permit rules with the managing agency. Access can change due to weather, maintenance, hunting seasons, conservation work, or local restrictions.

The locations below summarize commonly referenced off-road opportunities in and near Maryland.

Maryland State Forest ORV Areas

Maryland’s public off-road options are mostly found within state forest trail systems. These areas typically have posted rules for vehicle type, seasonal access, and trail use.

Potomac-Garrett State Forest

Location: 1431 Potomac Camp Road

General access: Four-wheel vehicle access is generally available from March 15 through December 15, subject to conditions and posted rules.

Laurel Run Road ORV Trail: 2.4 miles
Wallman Road ORV Trail: 3.9 miles
Backbone Mountain Trail: 2.7 miles
Piney Mountain ORV Trail: 1.7 miles
Snaggy Mountain ORV Trail: 3.2 miles

Savage River State Forest

Location: 127 Headquarters Lane

General access: Trail rules, vehicle allowances, and open dates vary by trail. Check current state forest information before visiting.

St. John’s Rock Trail
Meadow Mountain Trail
Margraff Plantation Trail

Other Regional Off-Road Destinations

Drivers looking beyond Maryland may find additional access in nearby states or on managed beach routes. These areas often require permits, reservations, or permission from the property manager.

Assateague Island Beach

Location: 7206 National Seashore Lane

Assateague Island offers year-round beach driving access with a permit. Vehicle limits apply, including a 145-vehicle cap. The route extends along the barrier island area between Maryland and Virginia.

Crozet Park

Location: 5300 Park Road, Virginia

Crozet Park is a private Virginia property that may allow off-road access during specific events or approved times. Permission is required before driving on the property.

Tuscarora Trail / State Line Trail

Region: Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia

The Tuscarora Trail corridor spans roughly 248 miles across multiple states. It is shared with hikers and bicyclists in many areas, so confirm vehicle access and use caution where motorized travel is permitted.

Planning Notes for Maryland Off-Road Trips

Maryland’s off-road options are not as extensive as some surrounding states, so planning ahead is important. A trail that was open during a previous visit may be closed or restricted on a later date.

Review official maps and posted notices, carry recovery and safety equipment appropriate for the terrain, and stay on designated routes. Avoid widening trails, bypassing obstacles, or entering closed areas.

If a location requires a permit, keep it with you during the trip and make sure your vehicle meets all posted requirements.

Before You Go

Confirm current open dates and trail conditions.
Check permit, pass, and reservation requirements.
Review vehicle size, registration, and equipment rules.
Travel with another vehicle when possible.
Yield to hikers, cyclists, horses, and other trail users.
Pack out trash and avoid sensitive areas.

Use Current Trail Information

Off-road access in Maryland is seasonal and closely managed. Always rely on the latest information from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, National Park Service, local land managers, or private property operators before driving.

Responsible use helps keep designated routes available and reduces conflicts with other recreation users.

Key Reminder

Do not assume a road, beach, or forest route is open to off-road vehicles unless it is clearly designated and currently authorized for motorized use.