Common Questions About Off-Roading in New Jersey

Everyone should understand the fun and exhilaration that comes with tearing down an old back road. Taking a cruise through a state park or the back roads of your own home town can be relaxing and enjoyable, but those seeking level of adventure that paved roads just don’t offer should look to their local trails. New Jersey offers an assortment of trails and parks for off-road travel, which can be navigated by off-road vehicles such as four-wheelers, as well as capable trucks and SUVs, but it’s important to stay informed about where you’re taking your vehicle. Traveling off-road in the wrong place can have detrimental effects on the environment, and can result in heavy fines, and can also be dangerous. Check out some frequently asked questions about off-roading in New Jersey to make sure you’re hitting the trails in a safe and legal way.

Can I off road in New Jersey’s state forests?

Many of New Jersey’s state forests offer marked trails for off road enthusiasts. Wharton State Forest, located in the southern part of the state, has miles and miles of unpaved roadways, but it is important to make sure you stick to those paths. Certain environmentally sensitive regions of the forest are strictly off-limits to vehicle travel, and disregard for these restrictions can result in heavy fines and the devastation of natural woodlands. If you plan to go off-roading in one of New Jersey’s state forests, be sure to stay on the lookout for posted restriction signs, and consider contacting park rangers before you head out to make sure you know where the legal trails are located and what areas you should avoid.

Are there any designated parks for off-roading in New Jersey?

A facility in Chatworth, NJ offered a half-mile track for four-wheel off-road trucks and SUVs, but closed in the early 2000s. Most privately-owned off-road parks in New Jersey now cater to smaller vehicles, such as ATVs and dirt bikes. Facilities such as New Jersey Motorsports Park Field of Dreams offer memberships and day passes, a training school, and overnight camping sites.

Are there off-roading clubs or groups I can join in New Jersey?

Private clubs and groups often offer exclusive access to trails and other off-roading resources within an area. Check out groups like the New Jersey Jeep Association (NJJA) for access to legal off-road trails, member-only trail rides, discounts on sponsor products and more. The NJJA is also a member club of the Northeast Offroad Vehicle Association, which offers access to trails around the Northeast, as well as events throughout the year. The NJJA and other similar clubs require monthly or yearly membership fees, but can broaden the possibilities for legally off-roading in your area.

Can I take my truck or SUV onto New Jersey beaches?

Island Beach State Park offers three-day driving permits, as well as annual permits. Beach driving in this park is exclusively offered for fishing purposes, and in order to take your vehicle onto the beach you’re required to have specific equipment on hand, including fishing equipment, a spare tire, tow chain, fire extinguisher and other safety gear. Information about non-fishing related beach driving can be found through the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association.

Where else can I go off-roading on the East Coast?

If you’re willing to venture outside of New Jersey, there are many options for off road enthusiasts to explore the East Coast and surrounding areas. Pennsylvania’s Rausch Creek Off Road Park offers 3,000 acres of trails for truck and SUV travel. The Outer Banks in North Carolina is one of the few places on the East Coast to offer extensive beach driving. Many Outer Banks beaches offer vehicle access year-road, and some allow for overnight parking if the vehicle’s owner is fishing.