Hollister Hills ride area
General Information
This area is a motorcycle, four-wheel drive, all-terrain vehicle, and dune buggy use area. Four-wheel drive and dune buggy visitors should call ahead as this area can be closed for special events.For motorcyclist and ATV riders the park offers 64 miles of trails in addition to motocross, vintage, TT, and mini-bike tracks.
Four wheel drive enthusiasts will find over 24 miles of trails and a custom designed obstacle course.
Location/Directions
Six miles south of Hollister.
Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
Summer temperatures are in the low to mid 90s.
Winter low 60s – upper 70s.
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.
The Upper Ranch
This 800-acre area, which has about 24 miles of trails, is used for 4-wheel drive recreation and for 4-wheel drive and motorcycle special events; a fenced motocross track is also located here. Four-wheel drive operators should call before coming, especially on weekends, to make sure that the area isn’t reserved for a special event. To use the area for the day, register first at the park office. If your vehicle gets stuck or breaks down, you are responsible for removing it. The Upper Ranch may be accessed for day use from 8 a.m. to sunset. Vehicle operation is allowed only between sunrise and sunset.
The Lower Ranch
This 2,400-acre area, set aside for motorcycle and ATV use only, has about 64 miles of trails and several hill climbs. There are also two picnic areas, a practice Motocross Track, an ATV Track for three and four wheeled vehicles, a TT track, a mini-bike trail, and a mini-track. Washracks are located in Camping, and Day-Use Area. Riding is allowed from sunrise to sunset.
Camping
The Upper Ranch has one family campground, Sycamore, which accommodates about 60 people, and has water and flush toilets. Fires are allowed in fire rings only. Bring your own wood or purchase it at the park store. The Lower Ranch has 4 family campgrounds with water and flush toilets. Dogs must be kept on leashes at all times.
Area 5
Area 5 has been set aside for use only by larger 4-wheeled vehicles such as Odysseys and Pilots which are not allowed in the Lower Ranch. These vehicles are allowed in the Upper Ranch with a whip and flag attached. Because Area 5 is also used as a group camp and for special events a few times a year, be sure to call the park office before you visit.
Special Events
Four-wheel drive and motorcycle clubs can periodically reserve the Upper Ranch for special events. The area may be closed to individuals when a special event is in progress. Contact the park office to obtain more information on special events. Area 5 can be reserved for certain special events. It accommodates up to 300 people.
Registration
Current California off-road vehicle registration (green and red stickers) or highway registration are required at all times when operating OHVs on public lands. Funds generated from OHV registration along with a portion of the state gas tax are used for the acquisition, development, and operation of OHV areas throughout California.
Please Note
- The gates to the Upper Ranch area must be attended or kept locked at all times.
- Remember, others are using the area, so always expect to meet another vehicle.
- Motorcycles and ATV’s are not allowed to be taken into the 4-wheel drive area, except on special event motorcycle weekends. Campers with disabilities should contact the park office to inquire about current site availability and accessible park features to determine if they meet their specific needs.
- It is recommended that all ATV operators take part in a formal safety training course under supervision of a certified ATV instructor.
- Proper riding equipment is essential to the safe operation of an OHV. Each ATV rider must wear a helmet and should wear proper protective clothing.
- Before starting out, familiarize yourself with the terrain. AVOID SURPRISES.
- Inexperienced riders should thoroughly acquaint themselves with all vehicle controls before starting out.
- Drive within the limits of your ability. Don't go
faster or climb higher than you can safely handle. Watch out for other
riders. When in doubt, take time to think and look the situation over before
you proceed.
