Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area (recgovnpsdata)

For California locals who thrive on adventure and the roar of an engine, the Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area in Long Barn offers an unparalleled outdoor experience. Nestled within the expansive Stanislaus National Forest, this destination is a magnet for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, providing a vast network of trails and roads designed for ATVs, dirt bikes, and 4x4s. We understand that Californians seeking an adrenaline-fueled escape also value convenient access and a community of like-minded individuals. Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area delivers on this promise, making it a go-to spot for motorized recreation in the Sierra Nevada.

This overview is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what makes Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area a premier destination for your next California adventure. We'll delve into its specific location and how to best access this thrilling trail system, detailing what kind of terrain and riding opportunities await you. We'll outline the services and facilities available, including the on-site Hull Creek Campground, and highlight the unique features that consistently draw riders back year after year. Our aim is to equip you with all the information needed to plan your visit with confidence, ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience from the moment you hit the trails. Join us as we explore why Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area is perfectly suited for locals seeking an exciting and accessible motorized recreation playground in the heart of California.

The Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area is located southeast of Long Barn, CA 95335, USA, deep within the Stanislaus National Forest. This strategic placement in the central Sierra Nevada makes it a popular and accessible destination for OHV enthusiasts from various parts of California.

Access to the area is primarily via State Route 108. From communities in the Central Valley, such as Modesto or Stockton, the drive involves heading east on SR-108 towards the Sierra Nevada. Once near Long Barn, specific directions usually involve turning right onto Long Barn Road, then a quick left onto Merrill Spring Road, and finally a left onto North Fork Road, which leads directly towards the Hull Creek Campground and the OHV area. While the main highways are well-maintained, be prepared for forest roads, which might be gravel or unpaved in sections, especially as you get closer to the core OHV trails.

For Californians traveling from major metropolitan areas, the drive is manageable. From the San Francisco Bay Area, the journey typically takes around 3-4 hours, while from Sacramento, it's approximately a 2.5-hour drive. Southern California residents will have a longer drive, but the extensive network of OHV trails often makes the journey worthwhile for dedicated riders.

The OHV area is situated at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 7,600 feet, which means it experiences seasonal closures due to snow, typically being open from April 15 to December 15. It's crucial for visitors to check the current conditions and opening dates with the Stanislaus National Forest before planning their trip. While the OHV area is designed for off-road adventure, nearby services are available. Long Barn and Sonora (about 16 miles away) offer gas stations, convenience stores, and other essential amenities, ensuring that riders can refuel and restock as needed. The direct trail access from the Hull Creek Campground is a significant convenience, allowing riders to start their adventures right from their campsite.

Services Offered:

• Hull Creek Campground offers 23 campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Each campsite at Hull Creek Campground includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and a BBQ grill.
• A vault toilet is available at Hull Creek Campground.
• A hand pump water spigot is available at Hull Creek Campground, though visitors may consider bringing their own water or filtering it.
• Designated parking areas are available for staging OHVs.
• Over 20 miles of designated ATV trails and approximately 100 miles of forest service roads for OHV use.
• Permitted vehicles include ATVs, dual-sport motorcycles, UTVs, SXS (side-by-sides), SUVs, and Jeeps.
• Camping is permitted in developed sites only, with dispersed camping available in adjacent areas that offer no services.
• Campfires are permitted in developed campsites only (always check for current fire restrictions).
• California OHMVR stickers are required for all vehicles, along with a spark-arresting exhaust silencer or end cap.
• Nearby services (within 5-20 miles) include gasoline, diesel, RV hookups, RV disposal, and convenience stores.
• The fee for camping at Hull Creek Campground is $12.00 per night for both tents and RVs. Additional vehicles are free.
• Interagency Senior and Interagency Access Passes are honored for a 50 percent discount on camping fees at Hull Creek Campground.

Features / Highlights:

• Extensive OHV Trail System: Boasts around 20 miles of designated ATV trails and 100 miles of forest service roads, providing vast riding opportunities for all skill levels.
• Direct Trail Access from Campground: Hull Creek Campground offers 23 sites with direct access to the OHV trails, allowing riders to start their adventure immediately.
• Varied Terrain: Trails are mostly hard-packed dirt with some scattered loose chunk rock, offering diverse riding experiences. Some single-track trails are also available, though it's primarily suited for ATVs and dual-sport motorcycles.
• Seasonal Operation: Typically open from April 15 to December 15, offering a long season for riding enthusiasts.
• Beautiful Forested Setting: Located in the Stanislaus National Forest, the area features pine and fir trees, providing ample shade and a picturesque backdrop for riding and camping.
• Affordable Camping: At $12 per night, Hull Creek Campground is a cost-effective option for OHV enthusiasts.
• First-Come, First-Served Camping: Provides flexibility for spontaneous trips, though arriving early is recommended during peak season.
• Opportunities for All Skill Levels: While parts are challenging, there are also areas suitable for novice riders, especially on the forest roads.
• Nearby Services: Proximity to Long Barn and Sonora ensures access to essential amenities like gas and convenience stores.

Contact Information:

Address: Long Barn, CA 95335, USA

For official information and current conditions regarding the Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area and Hull Creek Campground, it is best to contact the Stanislaus National Forest.

Stanislaus National Forest Contact Information (General):

Phone: (209) 532-3671 (You may need to navigate their phone system to reach the appropriate district office, such as the Summit Ranger District, which oversees this area).

Website: For the most up-to-date information on alerts, current conditions, and regulations, visit the USDA Forest Service website for Stanislaus National Forest, specifically the Hull Creek / Trout Creek section.

Note: While a camp manager may be on-site, direct phone numbers for individual campgrounds are often not publicly available. Always check official Forest Service resources for the most accurate information.

For California locals passionate about off-highway vehicle recreation, the Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area in Long Barn stands out as a premier destination. Its location within the Stanislaus National Forest provides an expansive and diverse playground for ATVs, dirt bikes, and 4x4s, with over 20 miles of designated trails and 100 miles of forest service roads. This extensive network means there's always new terrain to explore, catering to riders of varying skill levels, from those seeking a leisurely ride to those craving a challenging adventure.

The availability of Hull Creek Campground right within the OHV area is a significant draw for local enthusiasts. Being able to camp with direct trail access means more time riding and less time transporting vehicles. The campground’s amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, provide essential comforts for an enjoyable stay, all at a reasonable price point of $12 per night. While one review mentioned potential issues with restroom use if camping "just behind the pay site," official information indicates that vault toilets are available, suggesting that campers should utilize the designated facilities within the managed campground area for the best experience.

Furthermore, the area's natural beauty, with its forested terrain and varying elevations, adds another layer of appeal. Riders aren't just navigating trails; they're immersed in the stunning landscapes of the Sierra Nevada. The seasonal operation, opening in mid-April and running through mid-December (weather permitting), allows for a long window of opportunity to enjoy the trails. For Californians who own OHVs and are looking for a reliable, exciting, and accessible place to ride and camp, Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area is an ideal choice, promising exhilarating days on the trails and peaceful nights under the stars. It's a true haven for motorized recreation in the Golden State.

Hull Creek / Trout Creek OHV Area (recgovnpsdata)

Long Barn, CA 95335, USA