Florida offers beautiful natural vistas and pleasant weather - two requirements for a fantastic side-by-side ride. There are many different riding areas throughout the state, which can make it hard to pick one for your next trip. We've gathered up some of our favorite UTV riding areas in Florida below. If you want more travel suggestions or want to explore UTVs for sale, head over to Johnson Fleet and Farm. Our dealership has locations in Yulee and Fernandina Beach, Florida, and Homerville, Georgia. We also proudly serve those in St. Augustine and Jacksonville, Florida.

Tate's Hell State Forest Trails

Florida is home to many unique ecosystems. Experience an impressive range of them by riding the side-by-side trails in this state forest. Over 150 miles of UTV riding trails allow you to see cypress/titi, swamps, pine flatwoods, blackwater rivers, and more. You may even see wildlife, such as wading birds or deer.

With all of this stunning nature to explore, you'll likely want to book a longer trip. One afternoon of riding just isn't enough! Consider reserving a site at the park's campground so you can spend all day UTV riding, get a good night's sleep, then repeat the next day. You will need either an annual permit or a three-day riding pass to take your UTV out on these trails.

Clear Creek OHV Riding Area

This UTV riding area goes through the Blackwater River State Forest, which is Florida's largest forest. Enjoy plenty of beautiful sights as you explore this vast land. One great perk of choosing this riding area is that there are trails dedicated to side-by-sides and ATVs and then separate trails for motorcycles. You won't need to share the trail with motorcyclists, allowing you to enjoy a less crowded route.

You could spend your entire trip navigating the UTV riding trails, but you can also try your hand at fishing. There is a beautiful lake in the area where hopeful anglers can try their luck. If you want to enjoy an overnight stay, pick from either primitive campsites or campsites offering more amenities.

The Osceola National Forest Riding Trails

If you want a well-rounded trip, then this national forest is for you. The area is filled with scenic vistas and wildlife, giving you plenty of sights to enjoy. Explore the many side-by-side trails that take you throughout the park. Once you've had your fill of UTV riding for the day, explore the many other activities available. Enjoy swimming, fishing, hunting, target shooting, wildlife viewing, boating, and more. There are campsites for you to book if you plan on any overnight stays.

Florida State Forest Rules for UTVs

Florida state forests do have rules pertaining to side-by-side riding. Make sure you know and follow them before you head out.

  • you will need an OHV permit. You can pick one up at the trailhead gatehouses or at offices near the park entrance.
  • you must tow your UTV to the staging area. Then you can ride over to the trail, but keep a close lookout for any foot traffic. As you ride, stay within the 30 miles per hour speed limit.
  • your side-by-side's engine and exhaust cannot exceed 96 decibels.
  • Finally, be sure to check the width-restriction of any trails you hope to explore. Some may be too narrow for a large UTV to navigate.

We hope you enjoyed this travel guide to Florida UTV trails! If your side-by-side needs to be fixed up before your trip, bring it to the experts at Johnson Fleet and Farm. We operate a parts replacement and service department that can get your UTV repaired in no time. We also offer a range of side-by-sides for sale if you are looking to buy. Whatever you need, you can find with us. We also proudly serve those in Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Florida.