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242 Devil's Den Lake Worth Saginaw
360 Ft. Hood LedgeWater Shiloh Ridge
Beaumont Sand Pits Fuqua Marshall Creek Slabs
Benbrook Galveston Island Matagorda Beach South Padre Island
Big Bend NP Gilmer Mexico Spring Creek
Boca Chica Beach Guadalupe NP Mineral Wells Terlingua
Canadian River Hot Springs Ozona Trinity
Coleto Creek Katemcy Padre Island Twin Buttes
Commanche Ridge Kronos Palo Duro Uvalde
Crosby Lake Arrowhead Pelican Island Village Creek
DeLeon Lake Meredith Primitive  Acres Winkler County Park
Del Rio      


1800 acres in Gilmer, TX (near Tyler). Being developed by Texas Motorized Trails Commission (TMTC).

Membership are purchased in TMTC (Texas Motorized Trails Coalition). TMTC is looking to add one or two more riding areas this year. Membership entitles one to a quarterly newsletter as well as two free riding weekend a year during our Membership meeting usually held late January and late July.

TMTC Family Membership is $35.00 per year or $1,000.00 lifetime

BMRA Admission Rates:

TMTC Members are $10.00 first weekend day for entire immediate family regardless of # of vehicles

TMTC Members are $5.00 for each additional weekend day (entire immediate family)

Non-Members (Day Members) are $15.00 per day per vehicle.

From Gilmer take 155 North to picnic area on the right. Enter the picnic area and go to the top of the hill. Please contact TMTC if you're interested in going there.

 The Grand Opening of the first TEXAS MOTORIZED TRAILS COMMISSION (TMTC) property is scheduled for Labor Day Weekend Sept. 1-4, 2000. We have 1800 acres of trails open to motorcycles, atvs, jeeps, and all four wheel drives. Grand opening festivities include workshops on ATV safety, wilderness first aid, user friendly OHV's, and environmentally sound trail repair. Events are scheduled daily for Kids. The trails are rated from beginner to extreme. Primitive camping is allowed. Campsites with electricity and water are under construction.

A Rating of 4 is given, which stands for 'Rutted and/or rocky road. No shelves but rocks to 9". Water crossings usually less than hub deep. Passable mud. Grades moderate, up to 15 degrees. Side hill moderate up to 15 degrees. 4WD under most conditions. No width problems, vehicle passing spots frequently available if less than two vehicles wide.' - 4x4trails.net

"On saturday the 28th of april, the 'magnificent seven' road together for the first time.

Paul Travis (Mesquite, Texas), along with Randy Devenney/Yank (Rowlette, Texas), and Eshel & Mark Travis (Mesquite, Texas), headed out from Mesquite, Texas to meet up with the rest of the 'Seven' at the east Texas town of Gilmer. The rest of the group was made up of Ralph & Judy Riojas (Leander, Texas), Michael Cade (Tyler, Texas), Jeremy Bratcher (Linden, Texas), and Todd Deloach (Houston, Texas).

The small sleepy town was totally unaware of the purpose of this gathering, and most of the towns inhabitants went about their normal business, not realizing that they had been marked as the chosen site of the rendezvous and assault.

The 'seven' were composed of three from north central Texas, one from southeast Texas, one from central Texas, and two from east Texas. this band was to be one of the most daring groups that had ever ridden through the streets of Gilmer, Texas.

As the 'magnificent seven' had previously arranged, six of them met up at a local boarding house, right in the center of the small town to culminate their assault plans. At high noon, the band road up the narrow winding road to the location of where the attacks would be initiated- Barnwell Mountain.

The territory around Barnwell Mountain., composed of steep rocky iron ore hills, deep perilous ditches, thick pine and hardwood bottoms, and vine covered undergrowth, was exactly the type of terrain that the 'seven' had chosen for their assaults. In this terrain the 'seven' could make their moves totally unseen by the inhabitants of the region.

One of the 'seven', the one from southeast Texas, had already established a base camp on the side slopes of Barnwell Mountain., in a secluded area surrounded by large trees and heavy brush. It was hear that the 'seven' began their assault on Barnwell Mountain.

The 'seven' slowly began their attacks on the rugged trails along the western slopes of Barnwell, advancing along the trails at a slow but steady pace. As the band moved along the rocky iron ore trails, the dust began to slowly rise in the air, so much so that at times it was hard for those in the rear of the band to see their companions ahead of them on the trail. As the band moved down the slope into the dense hardwood bottoms, they encountered rocky ledges which they had to overcome with their trusty steeds. The lower areas held a lot more moisture, so the dust began to fade away as they negotiated water crossings and treacherously tight places between the tall pines and hardwood trees.

Some of the trails became dangerously difficult to negotiate, and each of the 'seven' continued to advance, slowly, cautiously, overcoming every obstacle that came in their path. The grueling attacks continued throughout the entire day, neither of the 'seven' willing to succumb to the extreme conditions of the trails that lay ahead.

By late evening, just as the sun was beginning to send out it's final rays through the tops of the tall timber, one of the 'seven' received an injury which required the conquering band to momentarily halt it's advancement. The injury was only a minor one, but due to the approach of darkness, the band chose to stop it's attacks on Barnwell Mountain. and rendezvous at a local constabulary in the town of Gilmer.

After a long and hard day on the trails, the band ended the day with a well deserved meal at the constabulary. It was hard for the 'seven' to brake off from the successful mission, but due to uncontrollable circumstances, three of the 'seven' had to head off to their home camps that night.

The next morning, with a chill in the air, the last four of the band continued their assaults on Barnwell Mountain. They attacked with a vengeance, and left no obstacles unconquered. As the morning temperatures began to rise, two more of the band split up to head back to their home camps, leaving only two of the attackers to finish up the last of the assaults.

While the remaining two continued their advancement, one of the two almost succumbed to a fatal injury. With the help of his comrade, he was able to conquer the last, but most dangerous, attack of the entire mission.

With many hours on the trail ahead of the two, they passed on their congratulations to each other, and headed on to their own home camps.

Although Barnwell Mountain is still there, for any others who dare to attempt to conquer it's dangerous conditions and obstacles, it will never be the same again, after it's encounter with the 'magnificent seven'.

And just a word of warning to the inhabitants of the quiet little east Texas town of Gilmer... the 'magnificent seven' WILL RETURN! " - Review by Eshel Travis of the 'Texas Tribe' of the NAXJA

 


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 Marshall Creek - in Denton

"Been closed due to high water. I've only been out there once and it was nearly underwater then. The area is very small and there is VERY little there for 4x4's. A couple of small rock ledges to play around on but that's about it. It's better than nothing, but not worth driving for." - offcamber

Near Marshall, Northeast of Ft. Worth. A Corp of Engineers Park on the SW end of Lake Grapevine. Open from dawn to dusk daily. From Fort Worth take 377 North after you cross Hwy 114 take the first road to the right. The street sign reads Marshall Creek if it is standing (sometimes its not). Follow the road past a residentail area (the town of Marshall Creek) and it dead ends at the park. - 4x4trails.net

"Marshall Creek is a Corps of Engineers Park located on the SW portion of Lake Grapevine near the DFW Metroplex. Take the first street north of the intersections of Hwy114 and Hwy377 in Roanoke. That street is actually called Marshall Creek (if the sign is standing... it's usually not) and goes thru the small city of Marshall Creek and dead ends at the park. The Park itself is about 250 acres or more depending on the lake level. There is a nice swimming beach, a boat ramp, and numerous fishing holes. It is just a day use park (from sunrise to sunset), so no camping. It is a free park and open daily to all OHV use. The trails are fairly easy, but narrow. The sand on the beach is deep and abundant. Being on the lake finding mud is easy. It can be crowded, so stay alert and be careful of those who aren't. As far as I know there is no phone on property." - LauraTheBum

 



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Mineral Wells-Wolter - "The guys at Laynes NAPA in Springtown turned us on to this one. From Weatherford take 180 West toward Mineral Wells. Turn right (North) about .6 of a mile west of the State Park (the State Park is well known for rock climbing, but they do it with out motorized vehicles, go figure). As you turn Right you go under a wrought iron arch that says Wolter Industrial Park. Follow that road. You will come to a Y in the road at about 1/2 a mile go to the left. Continue on another 1.2 miles and you will see the trail head on the right before the Darr equipment building. This is actually on the corner of Lee and Ellis White. This is an old Army Base and has all the old buildings you pass thru on Ellis White before getting to the trail. We were told there were thousands of acres...I don't know for sure as we just had an hour or so to play before dark. The trails are great. Very rocky, but they don't roll with you as much as like say out at BMRA." - LauraTheBum

 



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360 - Irving, off of Highway 360.

"360 isn't worth the ticket risk now. Gilmer looks to be the best bet in northeast Texas." - GJarret

"360 while still being used, they are still ticketing. One of my co-workers was ticketed leaving one weekend." - offcamber

"360 is 'closed' and has always been 'closed'. Every couple of years the cops beat their chests and run people out of there. This latest was because of idiots dumping stolen cars down by the river. They have posted No Trespassing signs at the Highway, but there are ways in where you never encounter the signs.

Also, they started running a commuter trail on the tracks on the north side of the property, so they are STRICTLY enforcing the jumping of the tracks. That's like a 500 dollar fine.

There are people out there every weekend. But as with any private property, beware." - DMiller



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Padre Island National Seashore - "NPI and Padre Island National Seashore are the same place. About 15 miles from Corpus a long stretch of Beach that only 4x4's can go on. Takes about 3 hours to get to the end. Not really good wheeling, more scenic." - Kubben

"Padre Island National Seashore is 10 bucks for a weeks pass. Nothing to 4x4 on, you cant get on the dunes or mudflats cause it's a National Seashore, but you still need 4wd to get to the end of the island.  If you want to spend a day doing some serious beach combing it is well worth the trip. You never know what is going to wash up in 62 miles of beach. And at this time of the year right after spring break there is always cool stuff to find." - Riks4runner

In Kleberg, Texas.  Head East through the city on South Padre Island Drive (Highway 358). After crossing the JFK Causeway and the bridge onto Padre Island, continue about 10 miles south on Park Road 22.  It is a National Seashore: don't play in the dunes, don't speed, etc.  Good fishing and beach combing and camping.  Pay to play.

A Rating  of 3 is given, which stands for 'Dirt road. Rutted, washes, or gulches. Water crossings up to 6" depth. Passable mud. Grades up to 10 degrees. Small rocks or holes. 4WD recommended but 2WD possible under good conditions and with adequate ground clearance and skill. No width problems for any normal vehicle. Vehicle passing spots frequently available if less than two vehicles wide.' - 4x4trails.net

 



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Lake Arrowhead - "If you're not near Wichita Falls, you don't want to drive here to Lake Arrowhead. In my town, we have Lake Arr., Lake Kickapoo, Lake Buffalo, and a place called Canyon Trails. None of which are worth driving here to run. If you were driving through, or nearby, I would run them with you, but they are definitely not hot spots, just us locals place to go. If you've been at each place about an hour or more, you've probably done it all. Each has its moments, Canyon trails is mostly rocks and ledges, Lake Kickapoo is really small with some nasty rock ledges and climbs." - Ricktard94



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Lake Worth - "Small park in Lake Worth that has a nice little series of trails on some limestone hills overlooking Lake Worth and what used to be Carswell AFB (now NAS). The park is open during daylight hours only. Take 199 South of 820 (towards FTW). Turn Right on Roberts Cut Off (at traffic light by abandoned Kmart). The road makes a sharp left turn at the. entrance to the park. The trails wind around the lake all the way to the 820 bridge over the Lake." - LauraTheBum

 



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Saginaw - "There is a gravel pit in Saginaw (N. FTW area) that it seems no one cares if you ride at. From Loop820 take Old Denton Road North You will see trails on the right side of the road. The Trails lead back to the pits. Would be able to give more details of the terrain, but it was under water at the time we went to check it out." = LauraTheBum

 



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Trinity @ Denton - "Trinity Drive off of 380. Some fun extremely steep dirt and rock hills, but currently closed due to some idiot letting their 8 year old kid get killed there. Rumors are that people are going out there again, but the owner of the land has made his intentions clear that they no longer welcome any access." - offcamber 

In Liberty County.  Just find Highway 105 where it intercepts the Trinity river (about 45mi NW of Beaumont, TX). The area you can wheel is on the SouthWest bank, there are some mudholes and hills back there. Caution, about 1/2 mile into the woods you will come to a protected Wilderness area, and about 1/2 mile West of the beach is private property.  

A Rating of 2 is given, which stands for a 'Dirt road. Dry, or less than 3" water crossing depth. Some ruts. Slight grades, up to 10 degrees. 2WD under most conditions. Rain or snow may make 4WD necessary. Usually one and a half to two vehicles wide.' - 4x4trails.net



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242 - The most recent word is that the 242 bridge that leads to sections of the San Jacinto River have been closed. The area has been patrolled heavily and tickets have been given out for such things as trespassing and parking on a motorway.  There may be other entrances to the San Jacinto River.

"242 is a nice place to go but lately the young punks have been trashing it up so the law is always guarding the bridge entrance. I've heard if you stop and talk to the cop and tell him you're there to do some responsible wheeling, don't have any alcohol and bring a couple trash bags to help clean up he'll let you pass. If not there's a secret back entrance." - CHH777

"Take 45N to the 242/ Needham Rd. Exit. Take a right at the stop light on 242 headed EAST. There will be a turn off on the right hand side right before the bridge that goes over the river.

Doesn't really make to much of a difference.  Lots of sand, some mud in some water crossings. I would suggest extended breathers and a mud tire, A/T could work well. You are airing down either way.

When I ran down to 242 there was an exit way down the highway you travel on if you are leaving from the campsite (for all those that went to the Poker Run) I went through some subdivision and it puts you about 3miles further down from the turn around that we had... When I was down there that day we went from the bridge all the way to 59... We could see the overpass... but water was way too deep! The only problem is that there are cops on wheelers and one did say that it is trespassing... I was lucky enough to run into a resident and he said that it shouldn't be a problem if I ran out that way just tell them who you are (cousin  of a guy that lives there) no cops or anything, but it was an adventure finding my way out... Is the camp site entrance we used for the Poker Run open?? I mean there were three or four entrances that I was aware of... 1 of which is the bridge... that leaves 2 or 3... anybody have directions?  There is also 242 which is 10miles North of Spring Creek... " - Coe Parker

"I have ran street tires (31-10.50 m/s) down there all the way to 59 and back on a CJ5 just aired down to 8psi , but you must be able to ford at least 20"-24"of water." - Mark Claus

San Jacinto River - From Houston, TX take I-45 North to the Hwy 242(Needham Rd.) exit. Make a right on Needham Rd. and proceed about 3 miles to the roads just before the bridge. They are on both sides of the road, so you can take whichever is easiest. You can follow the river almost all the way to Hwy 59( my guess is about 25 miles).

A rating of 6 is given, which stands for 'Quite rocky or deep ruts. Rocks to 12" and frequent. Water crossings may exceed hub depth with strong currents. Shelves to 6". Mud may require checking before proceeding. Moderate grades to 20 degrees. Sidehill may approach 30 degrees. 4WD necessary and second attempts may be required with stock vehicles. Caution may be required with wider vehicles.' - 4x4trails.net



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Pelican Island - "Pelican Island is easy to get to, just take 45 until it turns into Broadway, then make a left on 51st and go through the intersection and follow the road past the A & M campus and there will be trails off to the left." - txbroncobubba



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Twin Buttes - "Twin buttes and San Angelo are the same place. we separate it into twin butte's and the boys ranch but its at the same lake just different sides. If you want to come up here just let me know and I'll take you out." - TheLakeRat



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Kronos - The Kronos Trail is described as a 'Killer Trail' by 4wheeloffroad magazine. It is near El Paso and opened in early 1998. This is a hardcore rockcrawling scene featuring trails such as the Abyss. High centering possible even on short wheel base Jeeps.



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Spring Creek - "Just North of Houston. Spring Creek is okay if you don't mind a little custom pin striping. Lots of narrow trails and water crossings. It's still fun." - CHH777

"There is a spot I promise that you and just about every other 4x4 would have to be towed out of, but most of the spring creek area is just that, a creek. you can drive up and down the 'beaches' and in and out of the water. there is quite a bit of sand in the area. It gets extremely busy during the right part of the year on the weekends, I've heard of damn near traffic jams down there, as they watch people attempt the devils hole.

There are several trails down there that are kind of tight, and lot's of water. Most of the crap can be avoided though, as I have taken my truck down there, with out pin striping it up, and also took my mothers '00 Mountaineer that was 1 months old at the time with temporary tags still on it to pull a jeep out of a sink hole. I had to stop a few times and bend some branches, but nary a scratch on it, but it was pretty dusty." - FordLover

In Montgomery Moore County.  From Houston, TX, take I-10 East to 610 North. Take I-45 North to Tomball/ Spring Exit (Splashtown). Go through town... at the stop sign go across the railroad tracks, you will go over two railroad tracks...at the next stop sign take a left go all the way and you are in… - 4x4trails.net

"At Spring creek be careful of fenced off areas, any markings stay far away from and just cruise on the trails I wouldn't suggest taking the river unless you know your way and know where the holes are..."  - Coe Parker

 



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Crosby - " At Crosby, MUD and lots of it! It is a fun place to go hang out and it is legal, most places around Houston are questionable to say the least. The places lots of people go is just property that is owned by someone who generally doesn't have a clue what is going on there. Once they find out it is usually shut down shortly after. I personally will only visit the places that are 100% legal, just don't need the hassle that can be associated with the other places.

Crosby can be lots of fun if you do not expect much. There are some good climbs and plenty of spots to get some pucker factor, both of which are hard to find around here. oh, did I mention the MUD? Some say it is toxic and stains the paint on the rigs, I have never seen this. It did almost instantly eat the black primer off my wheels!

As for the mud in Crosby. Best way I know is from I-10 heading east on I-10 from Houston, take the Crosby/Lynchburg Exit. Go North through highlands, past the old Battleground Speedway until you see 'highlands motorcross park', immediately past the park is a road to the left, take that road and follow it down past a bunch of pipe yards all the way to the end  where there is a gate. there you will find Hugh or his wife collecting money, give them $6 and go wheel. Make sure to watch someone else go through any suspicious holes first, lots of them will eat 44's and want more!" - Brian Alley

"After a good rain a stock Jeep can not make Crosby. I've seen 38's swallowed out there, and yes my 33's have disappeared in to the goo. If you go to Crosby wash it as fast as possible, it does stain, to many chemicals dumped into the San Jacinto over the years I guess." - Charles

"Crosby is a local spot which is a solid mud run. If you're gonna go there, I'd really recommend getting a few of the Higher Class guys in on the run because it'd take a sizable truck to pull you out when (not if) you get buried bumper deep out there." - Stevan Gajic

"from College Station I would say (double check for accuracy) take 290 towards I-10 take I-10 E out to the Beltway go North the freeway will end... curve to the right and get onto U.S. 90 Highway... then exit County Rd. stop on the exit ramp... drive off down to the right... and you are in.  Crosby is open that's I-10 East of Downtown on US 90. " - Coe Parker

 

 



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Uvalde - Uvalde.org "A stock Jeep can make Uvalde many have." - Charles "Uvalde is great if you've got fording depth." - Stevan Gajic

 



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Hot Springs - "A bunch of the good trails in Hot Springs have been closed. That sucks, because there were some kick ass trails there." - DMiller



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Palo Duro Canyon - "Palo Duro Canyon is pretty cool. Its about 20-30 minutes south of Amarillo." - MTUCJ7

"Palo Duro Canyon is a state park.  Except for a few parking areas, it's all paved.  There is NO 4wheeling there.  It's pretty, sure, but if you drop a tire off the asphalt, you can plan on serious fines." - Darkman



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Ozona - "Ozona's about 210 miles west of San Antonio, just right on I-10" - Codeman



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DeLeon - "Deleon is about 20 miles south of I20 on hwy 16 and about 30 miles east of Abilene." - TheLakeRat



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Del Rio - "Head West on 10 when you get anywhere past Del Rio go right." - FearMe



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Lake Meredith - located about 20 miles north of Amarillo.  "Lake Meredith is a nice rec area.  Big lake with good fishing and skiing and a couple of beaches.  I don't know of any areas that are specifically for wheeling, but if you ask around in town (Fritch, TX) you can probably find some mud to play in." - Darkman



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Matagorda Beach - South of Houston, Katy area



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Benbrook - near Dallas - Fort Worth

"Sorry to inform you that Benbrook is now closed with a pipe fence surrounding the property." - Chuck <Outlaw>



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Big Bend National Park - http://www.bigbendguide.com/ There are many areas of the Park including twenty seven miles of the Rio Grande River. The river portion extends from just south of Presidio and journeys downstream to Lajitas. This area includes campgrounds, picnic areas, and trail heads. The interior consists of the original ranch headquarters and includes lodging and camping.  This once privately owned land is now the property of the State of Texas. It has been developed into a State Park and is run and operated as such. It is possibly the most unique Park in the System. It is the largest, encompassing nearly 300,000 acres, and is considered a pristine wilderness.  A guided desert tour is available for experiencing a multi-day trip into the backcountry of the Big Bend area.  Features trails like Gualle Mesa, Madrid / Mexicano Falls, Sollitario, Topado Canyon, Panther Canyon, Palo Amarillo, Papalote Alto, and Smith Springs.

"Big Bend National Park Official NPS Website - http://www.nps.gov/bibe/home.htm  For what it's worth: there are some trails in Colorado that are listed as "4WD high clearance only" that I've seen 2WD grocery getters manage just fine. In other words, you can't always trust what a "vacation" guidebook (website) tells you." - Alan Hatcher

"Big Bend National Park is where Black Gap Rd. is, the location is out the Glen Springs Rd. down towards Mariscal mountain.  The link you posted was for some guide in west Texas here is the park link if you don't have it http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/bigbend/bigbend.htm" - River Rat

"I found this on "backcountry dirt roads" in Big Bend, read about the river road http://www.nps.gov/bibe/backroad.htm" - Jimmy Mancuso

"None of those roads are really difficult, but they do change season to season and get washed out in parts.  I took my '79 jimmy on 35'' through must of them and never had to put her in 4wd. It would be more difficult if it rained.

By picking the right line (avoiding the large loose rocks ) the only problems is the width at times as some of them have a drop of in one side with part washed out. Black Gap road can be driven by a stock vehicle and probably a car if carefully picking the right lines.

I believe the 3 picture in the web page Jimmy sent is the hardest place in Black gap, and you can even see in the picture that they have smoothed it out by putting concrete with rocks to make it an even grade. Still fun.

But it is a great place and well worth traveling to, just don't expect extreme trails, they are just difficult enough to keep you on your toes as the dirt roads are full of holes, trenches and small/medium sized rocks.

There is supposed to be some difficult trails north of Terlingua but I don't have any information, and there are some ghost towns that were discussed in here not long ago.

The scenery and the solitude are incredible, and the hiking is excellent in and out of the Chisos Basin. I f you haven't been to this area of Texas you need to see it. I do highly recommend it." - Javier



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Ft. Hood - near Waco 
 "I live in Killen right next to Ft. Hood. No it is not closed....you just have to know how to get in there. It is closed to hunting most of the time and most 4-wheelers in TX are hunters so if you just going in to wheel your cool."  - texaslearner

"I just wanted elaborate on my explanation of how to gain access to Ft. Hood.  Ft. Hood is open to the general public, you do not have to be military, and you can drive a 4wd vehicle off-road on ft. hood.  However, over night stays, and large groups of vehicles in one particular area are not permitted.  In addition you need to acquire a "permission" to access the remote "4-wheelin" areas.  A form needs to be filled out prior to entering with your vehicle and drivers license etc on it needs to be filled.  Then every time you go out you have to call ahead, and inform the personnel where you will be.  They will then tell you whether that area is open, and ask what times you will be there and your activity.  Here again your activity needs to be phrased properly.  Zuksters term of saying "scouting" is good.  You also must be out by 8pm.  And you can only occupy 2 quadrants, which covers about an acre per quadrant.  Therefore because of all the "red tape" Ft. Hood seems to be more suited to local weekend use.  It would definitely not be worth it if you are not local and a repeat user.  I can say however I and my father go onto ft. hood regularly.  There is a map that you can get when you fill out the information form.  The map is free if I remember right and has all the quadrants marked and numbered."  - texaslearner

"There has been a long standing battle over this property for about 2 years now. I am curious how you are gaining entry. This was NEVER open to hunters or fishermen of any kind. So I don't think that is keeping the gate's closed to the public. If you are in the military, with a valid ID gaining entrance is feasible otherwise entry seems to be a thing of myth and legend." - AustinJPR

"Texaslearner's explanation leaves much to be desired, but in small 1 to 2 vehicle groups you can still gain legal access to Ft. Hood (not area 34 or any of the former offroading areas). The way it works is Ft. Hood in the non-hunting seasons will allow you to scout (??army's secret term for offroading??) for that prime hunting spot. You can not go offroading, but if you should have to lock in those hubs to clear an obstacle in your "scouting", well then so be it. So it (Ft. Hood) is not legally open to offroading, but you can still offroad there in a kind of round about way.

I personally have never done this, but I've heard from numerous people who have. In fact Robert C. may have been the one who originally told me about this (I can't remember for sure). Then again maybe I made it all up." - Zukster

"Ft. Hood is still closed, and they are/were from mild to wild.  Great wheelin' experience, and the latest word I've heard is that opening again is still questionable." - Doug C.



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Fuqua - CLOSED South side of Houston

"Fuqua closed a long time ago. All the nice hills there were out there have been leveled and the area is under development. To get to where it used to be, take 45 south to the Beltway. Go east and it used to be right there." - Gajic



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Mexico - Tomorrow I leave for a fun filled weekend in Monterrey Mexico.  Will be offroading all day Saturday.  I have been talking with one of my best friends down there and he has been telling me about this trail about an hour and a half from Monterrey that sounds incredible.  Total river crossings are like 20-30 starting at river bottom and traversing up, up into the mountains. " - Andy



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Terlingua - Located on Texas Mexico border, in the vicinity of Big Bend National Park.  Go to http://www.Demon4x4.com/Runs/Terlingua.htm for more information.



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Beaumont Sand Pits - Exit Hwy69 at Lucas (near the mall) and go east. Lucas is Northeast of Dallas, TX and Southeast of McKinney, TX. First stoplight past the railroad tracks take a left. Follow that road around until you come to a tall radio-tower and transformer site on the left. Take a right onto the dirt road. Follow it back, the trails will be to the left about 1/2mile. Lots of mud, deep ruts and holes, winding trails. CAUTION: Sign at the entrance says "private property" but there seems to be a lot of people using the area. Also, hunters use the area. Possible crime location (2 burned out cars and some dumping)

A Rating  of 3 is given, which stands for 'Dirt road. Rutted, washes, or gulches. Water crossings up to 6" depth. Passable mud. Grades up to 10 degrees. Small rocks or holes. 4WD recommended but 2WD possible under good conditions and with adequate ground clearance and skill. No width problems for any normal vehicle. Vehicle passing spots frequently available if less than two vehicles wide.' - 4x4trails.net

Galveston Island - Galveston in Garza, Texas, near San Luis Pass.  Drive west from the city of Galveston until you see the pass, about 25 miles. Exit before the tollway to the right on to the beach and find your way around the dunes. Remember if dunes have vegetation on them it is a crime to drive on them. Last reports were Galveston County Sheriff permitted vehicles to travel in the sand trails as this is temporary beach due to its constant change due to weather, but do not drive on/over vegetation. Travel at your own risk and remember to tread lightly! - 4x4trails.net



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Primitive Acres Guest Ranch - From Dallas, TX, take I-20 East to 259 South (shortcut is take 135 into Kilgore and catch 259 South there…saves about 10 miles), Go through Henderson, and on to Mount Enterprise. Go to the one stop light in town and hang a left onto 84 West, go for a about three miles and catch CR 3191 South. After about a mile and a half the road splits into 3262 on the left and 3267 on the right. Go right on 3267. The ranch will be on your left.

OR: From Nacogdoches--north on 259. Turn right on Old Prospect Road (CR-3197) as you cross the county line. The road will "Y" so keep to the right. The Ranch will be on the right. they say signs will be posted.  Mt. Enterprise -- east on Hwy. 84 then right on CR. 3191. Turn right on CR. 3267. The ranch will be on the left.  Tampon -- west on 84 then 3191 and then 3267. Signs will be posted from this way also.

Restrictions: NO DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, No Firearms (unless hunting season), No 3-wheelers, No Pets allowed, No unsupervised children, No horseback riding without a guide, No swimming in the pool unless you are a ranch guest, ATVs and JEEPS are WELCOME!!!!

Overall, a very fun trip. Not too difficult for most people, although many people that went are going to be in the market for some more Jeep goodies very soon! (Like me, wishing for 4.56 gears and 33's - soon, very soon!) Also, I wouldn't recommend doing it as a day trip... it's about a 350 mile roundtrip from Dallas.

The morning started off with the toughest obstacle of the day - a drop down into a creek bottom, and a steep, rocky climb up the other side. Getting the tires loaded up with mud in the bottom made climbing the rocks more challenging. Everyone that tried it made it - from a nearly stock ZJ, to stock TJ's, and those with more mods.

Then, our groups split up into two, since the turnout was so good. We headed to a sandy ravine to play in next, where we watched several people, and only two successfully climb the most challenging hill out. So many valiant efforts, though. Bob Carson popped a bead on one climb, but a few minutes later they had it re-seated and everyone went their separate ways.

I led one group up, around, and all over the place. We went to the top of Jackson's Hill to check out the view, and then back to the lodge for lunch - air conditioning rocks! :) BTW, near the top of Jackson's Hill, there's a great, flat, sandy place to do donuts!!!

After lunch, I led the group again. We found some very fun trails - sand, rocks, mud, deep ruts, lots of off-camber stuff, and some great chances to flex out everyone's suspension. Water crossings were easy enough with firm, sandy bottoms. Of course, the fact that there hasn't been much rain made them much easier.

The last obstacle of the day was a great drop-off to the side of one trail that I spotted as we tooled along. I tried the hardest line first, and made it with no problems (although I drug the receiver on my brand new Tomken rear bumper, which is why I MUST have 33's!). The stockers and less lifted rigs went down the easier side, but it was still challenging. My Dad in his OME lifted TJ also took the hard line, and I'll never forget the look on both his and his passenger's faces as the passenger front dropped over the 3' ledge and they got a little tipsy... pure pucker! Jason West went down and then back up the tough line with a little help from his friendly spotter (which is why I want 33's - he didn't drag anything!).

Overall, we had a ton of fun. I am sure we'll be back - one thing I can say for sure - if it rains before you go, everything will be much harder! - 4x4trails.net



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Boca Chica Beach - In Cameron County.  Follow Boca Chica Ave Eastbound out of Brownsville, TX (in the very Southwest tip). Head about 8 miles and you're there. The road dead ends on the beach. There are sand dunes to the left and right, and some decent mud flats. If you follow the beach all the way to the left you'll find the jetties (good fishing) follow the beach to the right and it ends at the river.

A Rating of 2 is given, which stands for a 'Dirt road. Dry, or less than 3" water crossing depth. Some ruts. Slight grades, up to 10 degrees. 2WD under most conditions. Rain or snow may make 4WD necessary. Usually one and a half to two vehicles wide.' - 4x4trails.net



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South Padre Island - Located just East of Brownsville, in Cameron County. Get out onto the island, and then Go north on Park road 100 until you find the entrance. There is about 35 miles of beach. The dunes are technically off limits, but the further north you go the better your chances are of accessing them (please stay off the vegetation though) For a real challenge, just follow 100 north until it ends in a dune and keep going! You may get a ticket if you're caught in the dunes. At the end of the beach, you can go to the back of the island to get into some serious mud (tidal flats, don't go back there alone).

A Rating  of 3 is given, which stands for 'Dirt road. Rutted, washes, or gulches. Water crossings up to 6" depth. Passable mud. Grades up to 10 degrees. Small rocks or holes. 4WD recommended but 2WD possible under good conditions and with adequate ground clearance and skill. No width problems for any normal vehicle. Vehicle passing spots frequently available if less than two vehicles wide.' - 4x4trails.net



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Village Creek - In Harden County.  Small section of rutted muddy trails Just north of Beaumont, Texas. Go north out of Beaumont on Hwy69, exit Lumberton. Go through Lumberton, and you'll come to a long bridge. Take a right at the end of the bridge (sharp hairpin 180* turn). Follow it back to the creek. The trails are to the right. There is one decent trail that follows underneath the overpass, and a few good mud holes back there. Caution, the first mud hole you will see is the deepest, about 3' depending on recent rainfall.

A Rating  of 3 is given, which stands for 'Dirt road. Rutted, washes, or gulches. Water crossings up to 6" depth. Passable mud. Grades up to 10 degrees. Small rocks or holes. 4WD recommended but 2WD possible under good conditions and with adequate ground clearance and skill. No width problems for any normal vehicle. Vehicle passing spots frequently available if less than two vehicles wide.' - 4x4trails.net



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Winkler County Park - The park is about 3 miles northeast of Kermit, TX. on Highway 115. The park is a county park, there are no facilities, but some picnic tables with shades. You can camp overnight there. About a 5 square mile area of sand dunes. No rules, run what you brung. Locals do ask for No Glass Bottles for obvious reasons. On any Sunday there are motorcycles, dunebuggies, atvs and 4 wheel drive rigs of every description, size and color. 4 wheel drive required unless you have a specialized sand vehicle.

A Rating of 5 is given, which stands for 'Rutted and/or rocky road. No shelves. Rocks up to 12" and water crossings up to 12" with possible currents. Passable mud. Moderate grades to 15 degrees. 6" holes. Side hill to 20 degrees. 4WD required. No width problems.' - 4x4trails.net



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Guadalupe National Park - http://www.nps.gov/gumo/ppmaps/bigmap.gif
I would recomend a trip as the area is breathtaking. Any Texan has to at least once climb the higuest mountain in Texas. Beautiful area for some camping and hiking.

That stage route seems interesting and even though it travels through the desert floor it seems to cross enough river washes with the beautiful Guadalupe mtns to the North for a great trip. - Javier



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Canadian River -  "The Canadian River feeds Lake Meredith from the west.  There is a large OHV area there.  Take 87 north out of Amarillo.  At the bridge over the Canadian, you can pull off and go down to the river bed.  There's plenty of sand, mud, hill climbs, etc for about 5 miles east and west of the bridge.  It's rumored that you can go east all the way to Lake Meredith, but that takes you over private land, so I don't recommend it.  The river ranges from about 12" up to 36"+ depending on rainfall.  The water is always red with mud and silt so you can't see the bottom.  If you go there often enough you are guaranteed to find some huge hole under the water where somebody buried their rig in the mud.  (I can't tell you how many trucks and dirt bikes I've seen abandoned with water up to the windows/handle bars.) The area is mostly used by motorcycles and ATVs so you really have to keep your eyes pealed and stay off the narrower trails that these guys use." - Darkman



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LedgeWater -  LedgeWater is a family camping and RVing resort in the Texas Hill Country, between Barksdale and Rocksprings, near Uvalde along the Nueces River. They have opened the area up to 4 wheeling and are looking for 4 wheelers to help build the trail network. This is a call for anyone who wants to build there own trail, any club/chapter, club/chapter member, or independent wheeler who wants to check out a new place to wheel, but doesn't mind putting in a little labor before the fun. We are still in the planning stages, but look for more information soon. Soon I'll have pictures available from a recent scouting trip by a couple of Katy members. In the meantime, for more information on LedgeWater check out their website at http://www.ledgewater.com



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If you have any information on Texas trails, including images, locations, new trails, pricing, camping ammenities, etc., feel free to comment, or email TexasTrails@Demon4x4.com