Iowa’s Biggest Off-Highway Vehicle Park

Iowa’s Biggest Off-Highway Vehicle Park

By Jessica Graham

Some of my best memories during my teenage years encompass four wheeling with friends. Four wheeling for youth is often their first introduction to driving and is a chance to make mistakes and learn from them. I am very thankful for those years and memories and the life-long bonds we formed. One valuable recreational opportunity Iowa has that some of our neighboring states lack are Off-Highway Vehicle Parks (OHV). There are several parks located across the state with varying trails and difficulties. One of the most unique parks is Gypsum City Off-Highway Vehicle Park.

History
Gypsum City OHV Park is located just south of Fort Dodge, Iowa. It is unique in that it is actively being built on land that was mined for gypsum. Originally, the OHV park was created with collaboration from Webster County Wheelers as well as other local entities, along with the gypsum companies and legislators to create the OHV Park. The park was formed to give motorists a place to ride recreationally and has been strategically crafted into a tourist attraction for the area..

OHV Trails
If you do not have access to private property, Iowa has several OHV parks for riding located throughout the state. You don’t necessarily have to have access to private property to be able to enjoy riding your UTV. The ever-popular side-by-sides as well as motorcycles, ATVs and snowmobiles can find the room to ride at Gypsum City Park.

Gypsum City Park is the largest OHV park in the state of Iowa. It is currently over 800 acres and growing. The trails vary in difficulty and some trails are best for experienced riders, and some trails, like the youth trails are perfect for newer motorists. You can even find a youth track and beginner circle for youth riders. Even though the park offers trails for beginner riders, experienced riders will not get bored. One of the most surprising aspects of the OHV park is the variance in landscape. Through out the 60 miles of trails, you will pass from open fields to wooded areas, and some trails have low water crossings too. For the motorists that are not afraid to get dirty, there are designated mudding areas. The trails are designated for specific machines and signs indicate which machines can operate on which trails. Some trails are specifically designed for two-wheeled dirt bikes, while others are meant for ATV and side-by-sides.

Since the park is a state park, it follows state park regulations. Motorists need to have their recreational vehicles registered with the state. Iowa residents can register atvs through their local county offices. Registration fees are used to expand the OHV opportunities within the state. Since Gypsum City Park is a state park, state regulations must be followed. You also must wear helmets and your recreational vehicle must be no louder than 96 decibels. Youth ages 12-17 are required to have an ATV Education Certification to operate their recreational vehicles on the sites. More information can be found through the Iowa DNR’s website. It is important to make sure you are following the rules and regulations. The park is monitored and officials ensure motorists are being responsible and adhering to all laws and regulations.

Camping Opportunities
As mentioned, not every state is investing in OHV parks the way Iowa is. For instance, Nebraska doesn’t currently have any OHV parks. “We are seeing riders come in from all over the Midwest, particularly Nebraska.” says Kerri Kuiper from the Fort Dodge Convention and Visitors Bureau. Bringing in tourism from out-of-state helps boost the local business and economy. Some of these tourists are staying in nearby towns, and others choose to spend a few days enjoying the campground at Gypsum City Park. The campsites are available with full hookups or you can choose a campsite with water & electricity. Showers and restrooms are located at the campgrounds too.

Whether you are looking for a new spot to ride or are just interested in a weekend getaway, you should consider visiting Gypsum City Park’s OHV Park. The park is the biggest in Iowa and has extensive opportunities for all ages and riding levels. Riding with friends or family members builds irreplaceable memories with each other. The park is family friendly, so if you do not want to ride all day long, you can enjoy the campfire or fishing on one of the onsite ponds. The Gypsum City OHV Park makes a perfect destination for a summer camping trip with family and friends.