Sahara Woods OHV Trail System Opens in Illinois After 26 Years

After nearly three decades of planning and persistence by advocates, Illinois is holding a grand opening for a highly anticipated Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trail system.

Long-Awaited OHV Trail System Opens in Illinois

According to the press release, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Friday (5/2) to celebrate a milestone at Sahara Woods State Recreation Area in downstate Illinois that will offer nearly 30 miles of trails.

Illinois state leaders, outdoor enthusiasts, and local supporters attended the opening day for this former coal mine that closed in 1993, and has been transformed into Illinois' first OHV park.

Reclamation and Investment Drive Transformation

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and Abandoned Mine Lands Program oversaw $10 million in reclamation efforts, paving the way for a safe and sustainable recreation area.

John Moore

Besides the new trails, a 3,400-square-foot operations building and ADA-accessible restroom facility are welcome additions to daily park operations.

Funding and Local Partnerships Fuel Project

Funded through state and federal dollars, including a Recreational Trails Program grant, the development represents a joint effort by the IDNR, Illinois Capital Development Board, and local partners like the Village of Carrier Mills.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker hailed the project as a model of community-centered investment.

Get our free mobile app

With a limit of 120 vehicles per day and a $20 daily permit fee, the Sahara Woods OHV trail system is set to drive tourism, bolster the local economy, and offer a new adventure hub for southern Illinois.

Sahara Woods State Recreation Area comprises 4,000 acres featuring excellent fishing opportunities, including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, redear, and channel catfish; boat ramps; and hunting.

One-day permits for the trails are $20 per vehicle, and four-day permits are available for $65 per vehicle. CLICK HERE for the rules and guidelines.

LOOK: The longest highways in America

Stacker compiled a list of the longest interstates in the United States using 2021 data from the Federal Highway Administration. Read on to find out which ones are the lengthiest.

Gallery Credit: Hannah Lang

LOOK: 13 North American amusement parks growing the most in popularity

Stacker used Themed Entertainment Association and AECOM data to list the 13 North American theme parks with the most visitor growth from 2021 to 2022.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

Filed Under: Rockford News