About North Sand Hills OHV Area
Colorado's only open sand dune area for OHV recreation is situated at the eastern edge of North Park at the toe of the Medicine Bow Mountain Range. North Sand Hills provides unique riding opportunities for dirt bike, ATV, side- by-side and sand rail riders. Due to the area's extreme landscape, it is important to be prepared and alert when riding OHVs. The area also has connecting trails into the State Forest State Park and adjacent U.S. Forest Service lands, all while providing the scenic backdrop of the Park and Medicine Bow Mountain Ranges. A small campground of 13 individual pull-through units with picnic tables and fire rings and other dispersed camping sites are available within the area. Whip flags on vehicles are not required but are recommended. The North Sand Hills Instant Study Area is adjacent within the OHV area. Colorado OHV registration is required on all non-licensed vehicles. The North Sand Hills ISA represents a Cold Climate Eolian sand deposit, which comprises three active dune areas in Colorado. The morphology here consists of two large, active parabolic dunes with small, internal dunes migrating up the windward slopes. Several archaeological sites have been discovered, increasing the historical and cultural values of the area. The area is very popular, especially on holiday weekends during the summer. The area is seasonally closed to motorized use from December 15 to April 15 annually. Drive safely and obey posted speed limits through camp areas. For more information, please contact the Kremmling Field Office.
How to Get There
The North Sand Hills OHV Area is located in Jackson County, approximately 11 miles northeast of Walden. From Walden, take Highway 125 north about 10 miles, then turn east on County Road 6. Continue about 3.5 miles, then turn right on county road 6N and go about 2 miles. Stage anywhere. the OHV Area is immediately adjacent to the ISA.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to North Sand Hills OHV Area
Heading to North Sand Hills OHV Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for North Sand Hills OHV Area?
Yes — reservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Popular sites fill quickly, especially weekends and holidays. Book up to 6 months in advance.
How do I get to North Sand Hills OHV Area?
The North Sand Hills OHV Area is located in Jackson County, approximately 11 miles northeast of Walden. From Walden, take Highway 125 north about 10 miles, then turn east on County Road 6. Continue about 3.5 miles, then turn right on county road 6N and go about 2 miles. Stage anywhere. the OHV Area is immediately adjacent to the ISA.
How do I contact North Sand Hills OHV Area?
You can reach the park at phone: (970) 724-3000 or email: kfo_webmail.@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
