Last Updated on July 16, 2023
The United States is home to some of the most spectacular sand dunes in the world. These natural wonders offer expansive stretches of sandy terrain, perfect for ATV riding and exploration.
For ATV enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-pumping off-road experience, the sand dunes of the United States offer an ideal playground.
Below, a list of some of the best sand dunes for dune riding across the USA:
16 Top ATV Riding Sand Dunes in the US
Glamis Dunes, California
Situated in Southern California’s Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, Glamis Dunes offers ATV enthusiasts an unparalleled off-road experience. With over 40 miles of open sand dunes, it’s a haven for riders seeking thrilling adventures. Glamis Dunes accommodates all skill levels, with both beginner-friendly areas and challenging dunes for experienced riders. The nearby cities of Brawley and El Centro provide convenient access to services and amenities.
The dunes themselves are expansive, offering a vast playground of sandy terrain. ATV riders can conquer rolling dunes and enjoy the exhilarating feeling of flying across the sand. Camping facilities are available, allowing riders to fully immerse themselves in the ATV culture at Glamis Dunes.
Getting There:
From San Diego, head east on I-8 E towards El Centro. Take Exit 173 for Ogilby Road and continue onto CA-78 E. Follow the signs to Glamis Dunes.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes, Michigan
Located along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a paradise for ATV riders in the Midwest. Nestled near the cities of Hart and Mears, it offers a captivating setting for off-road adventures. Spanning over 2,000 acres, the dune system provides a mix of open dunes and wooded trails, catering to riders of all levels.
ATV riders can relish the thrill of conquering the sandy slopes and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. The area offers various rental options for those without their own ATVs, ensuring that everyone can experience the excitement of riding the dunes. Nearby amenities include camping facilities, picnic areas, and local businesses that cater to ATV enthusiasts.
Getting There:
From Grand Rapids, take US-131 N to Ludington, then head west on US-10 W. Follow the signs to Silver Lake Sand Dunes.
Little Sahara Recreation Area, Utah
The Little Sahara Recreation Area, situated in central Utah, beckons ATV riders with its expansive dune field spanning over 60,000 acres. Located near the town of Nephi, it offers a desert playground for riders seeking exhilarating adventures. The sand dunes here can reach heights of up to 700 feet, providing plenty of opportunities for adrenaline-pumping rides.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, Little Sahara has something for everyone. The area offers designated camping spots, modern amenities, and a range of trails suitable for different skill levels. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides on the steep slopes and explore the vast expanse of sandy terrain.
Getting There:
From Salt Lake City, head south on I-15 S. Take Exit 222 for Nephi, then follow the signs to Little Sahara Recreation Area.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Oregon
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, spanning 40 miles along the picturesque Pacific coastline, is a captivating destination for ATV riding. Situated near the cities of Florence and Reedsport, it boasts the largest coastal sand dune expanse in North America. ATV riders can explore the diverse dune formations, conquer steep slopes, and enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean.
For those without their own ATVs, the area provides options for ATV rentals and guided tours, making it accessible to riders of all levels of experience. Whether you prefer to cruise along the open dunes or navigate through wooded trails, the Oregon Dunes offer an unforgettable ATV adventure. Additional amenities include camping facilities, picnic areas, and nearby visitor centers.
Getting There:
From Portland, take OR-126 W towards Florence. Follow the signs to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Utah
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, nestled in southern Utah, offers a unique and visually striking ATV riding experience. Located near the town of Kanab, the park features vibrant pink sand dunes that create a stunning desert landscape. Encompassing over 2,000 acres, riders can indulge in the thrill of conquering steep hills and navigating through narrow passages.
ATV enthusiasts will appreciate the designated ATV staging areas, allowing for convenient access to the dunes. The park provides sandboarding opportunities, camping facilities, picnic areas, and restroom facilities for visitors. With its breathtaking scenery and thrilling riding opportunities, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a must-visit destination for ATV riders.
Getting There:
From Salt Lake City, take I-15 S to Kanab. Follow US-89 S towards Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.
Sand Hollow State Park, Utah
Sand Hollow State Park, located near St. George, Utah, offers a thrilling ATV riding experience. This destination boasts a diverse terrain with rolling sand dunes and rocky trails, providing a wide range of riding opportunities. ATV enthusiasts can enjoy the adrenaline rush of tackling the sandy slopes and exploring the picturesque landscape.
For those who don’t have their own ATVs, Sand Hollow State Park offers ATV rentals on-site, ensuring that visitors can still enjoy the excitement of riding the dunes. The park also features a reservoir where riders can cool off and relax after an adventurous day. With stunning red rock formations and scenic vistas, Sand Hollow State Park combines excitement and natural beauty.
Getting There:
From Las Vegas, take I-15 N towards St. George. Take Exit 16 and follow the signs to Sand Hollow State Park.
Imperial Sand Dunes, California
Adjacent to Glamis Dunes, the Imperial Sand Dunes, also known as the Algodones Dunes, offer another remarkable ATV riding destination in Southern California. These sand dunes provide riders with an extensive playground for off-road adventures. Spanning approximately 45 miles, the Imperial Sand Dunes offer a vast expanse of sandy terrain to explore.
ATV riders can experience the thrill of conquering the rolling dunes and marvel at the awe-inspiring desert landscape. Nearby amenities and services can be found in the cities of Brawley and El Centro. The Imperial Sand Dunes provide a unique ATV riding experience in the heart of the Southern California desert.
Getting There:
From San Diego, head east on I-8 E towards El Centro. Take Exit 166 for Dunaway Road and follow the signs to the Imperial Sand Dunes.
St. Anthony Sand Dunes, Idaho
The St. Anthony Sand Dunes in Idaho offer a thrilling ATV riding experience in the scenic wilderness. Located near the town of St. Anthony, this dune system covers an area of about 10,600 acres. ATV enthusiasts can explore the expansive sand dunes, which provide a combination of thrilling slopes and breathtaking views.
Riders of all levels can find suitable areas to enjoy their ATV adventures. The St. Anthony Sand Dunes offer a unique blend of sandy terrain and wooded trails, providing diverse riding experiences.
Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings while immersing themselves in the thrill of riding across the dunes.
Getting There:
From Idaho Falls, head northeast on US-20 E towards St. Anthony. Follow the signs to the St. Anthony Sand Dunes.
Monahans Sandhills State Park, Texas
Located in West Texas, Monahans Sandhills State Park showcases a picturesque desert landscape with vast stretches of sand dunes. ATV riders can explore the rolling dunes and experience the tranquility of this unique park. The dunes vary in size and shape, providing a range of riding opportunities for all skill levels.
While the park does not offer ATV rentals, visitors are welcome to bring their own ATVs. The park features camping facilities, picnic areas, and trails for both ATV riding and hiking. Monahans Sandhills State Park is an ideal destination for ATV enthusiasts looking for a desert escape and thrilling rides through the sandy dunes.
Getting There:
From Midland, head west on I-20 W. Take Exit 86 for FM 1233 toward Monahans. Follow the signs to Monahans Sandhills State Park.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Located in southern Colorado, Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a unique ATV riding experience amidst towering sand dunes. The park, near the towns of Alamosa and Mosca, features the tallest dunes in North America, reaching heights of up to 750 feet. ATV enthusiasts can explore the expansive dune field and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
While ATV riding is not permitted directly on the sand dunes, nearby Medano Pass Primitive Road provides an opportunity for off-road adventures. This unpaved road offers a challenging trail that winds through the scenic landscape. Visitors can also enjoy camping, hiking, and sandboarding in the park, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Getting There:
From Denver, take I-25 S to Walsenburg. Then head west on US-160 W to Alamosa. Follow the signs to Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park, North Carolina
Jockey’s Ridge State Park, situated in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, is home to the tallest natural sand dune system in the eastern United States. Located near the town of Nags Head, this unique park offers ATV riders an opportunity to explore the massive sand dunes and coastal landscape.
While ATV riding is not allowed within the park, visitors can enjoy sandboarding or participate in guided tours offered by local outfitters. The park also provides ample opportunities for hiking, kite flying, and enjoying the scenic views. Nearby amenities, including restaurants and shops, can be found in the town of Nags Head.
Getting There:
From Raleigh, take US-64 E towards Nags Head. Follow the signs to Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
White Sands National Park, New Mexico
White Sands National Park, located in southern New Mexico, offers a mesmerizing landscape of vast white gypsum sand dunes. The park, near the city of Alamogordo, provides a unique backdrop for ATV riding adventures. Riders can explore the pristine dunes, which span over 275 square miles, and experience the surreal beauty of the white sands.
ATV riding is permitted within designated areas of the park. Visitors can bring their own ATVs or rent them from nearby outfitters. It is important to note that a free-use permit is required for ATV riding. The park also offers sandboarding and sledding, camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural wonder of White Sands.
Getting There:
From Las Cruces, head north on US-70 E towards Alamogordo. Follow the signs to White Sands National Park.
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Idaho
Bruneau Dunes State Park, situated in southwestern Idaho, is home to the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America. Located near the town of Mountain Home, the park offers ATV enthusiasts a unique riding experience in a desert-like environment. The massive sand dune provides ample opportunities for exhilarating rides and panoramic views of the surrounding Snake River Plain.
While ATV riding is not permitted on the dunes, the park offers other recreational activities such as sandboarding and horseback riding. Visitors can also explore the park’s observatory, which provides stargazing opportunities due to the park’s dark night skies. Camping facilities and picnic areas are available for visitors to enjoy a complete outdoor experience.
Getting There:
From Boise, take I-84 E to Exit 95 towards Mountain Home. Follow the signs to Bruneau Dunes State Park.
Jericho Mountain State Park, New Hampshire
Jericho Mountain State Park, located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, offers ATV riders a scenic and thrilling riding experience. Situated near the town of Berlin, this park encompasses over 7,500 acres of wilderness and features a network of trails specifically designed for ATV riding.
Riders can enjoy a variety of terrain, including wooded trails, open fields, and challenging hill climbs. The park provides a mix of beginner-friendly and advanced trails, catering to riders of all skill levels. Visitors can bring their own ATVs or rent them from nearby outfitters. In addition to ATV riding, the park offers camping facilities, fishing opportunities, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Getting There:
From Manchester, head north on I-93 N to Berlin. Follow the signs to Jericho Mountain State Park.
Little Sahara State Park, Oklahoma
Little Sahara State Park, located in northwest Oklahoma, is a popular destination for ATV riders seeking thrilling adventures on sand dunes. This park features expansive sand dunes that cover over 1,600 acres, providing an ideal playground for off-road enthusiasts.
Riders can explore the rolling dunes and experience the excitement of riding across the sandy terrain. The park offers designated ATV areas and a range of trails suitable for all skill levels. Camping facilities, picnic areas, and restroom facilities are available for visitors’ convenience. Nearby Waynoka and Woodward offer amenities such as lodging, dining, and ATV rentals.
Getting There:
From Oklahoma City, head northwest on US-270 W towards Waynoka. Follow the signs to Little Sahara State Park.
Coos Sand Dunes, Oregon
The Coos Sand Dunes, located along the southern Oregon coast, offer a scenic and diverse ATV riding experience. Situated near the city of Coos Bay, this expansive dune system covers approximately 3,700 acres and provides a mix of sandy slopes, open dunes, and coastal terrain.
ATV riders can enjoy exploring the varied landscape and taking in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The dunes offer thrilling opportunities for riders of all levels, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts. Nearby amenities include camping facilities, picnic areas, and access to Coos Bay’s restaurants and shops.
Getting There:
From Eugene, head west on OR-38 W towards Reedsport. Continue on US-101 S to Coos Bay. Follow the signs to the Coos Sand Dunes.
Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland/Virginia
Assateague Island National Seashore, spanning both Maryland and Virginia, offers a unique ATV riding experience in a coastal setting. Known for its wild horses and pristine beaches, this barrier island provides riders with an opportunity to explore the sand dunes and shoreline.
ATV riding is permitted on designated areas of the island, providing a thrilling adventure for riders. It is important to note that permits and specific regulations apply. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching during their visit to Assateague Island. Nearby amenities can be found in the surrounding towns of Ocean City, Maryland, and Chincoteague, Virginia.
Getting There:
From Baltimore, head east on US-50 E towards Ocean City. Follow the signs to Assateague Island National Seashore.
The sand dunes of the United States provide an incredible playground for ATV enthusiasts. With so many great places to ride across the country, there’s sure to be a sand dune out there that’s perfect for you.
Here are some additional tips for safe ATV riding on sand dunes:
- Check the weather forecast before you go. Sand dunes can be dangerous in bad weather conditions.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks. It can get hot and tiring riding on sand dunes, so it’s important to stay hydrated and fueled.
- If you’re riding with a group, designate a leader and have a plan in case of an emergency.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for other riders, pedestrians, and wildlife.
- Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained.
- Leave no trace.
Read also: Desert Riding in Texas
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