Following the lead of a similar pilot program in Inyo County, California, and the towns of Randsburg and California City (near Mojave), Needles is allowing OHVs to ride in from the nearby BLM land on city streets to access food, gas, and lodging. This also gives the only legal route to cross from the deserts of California into Arizona over the Colorado River. This should be a big boost of revenue to a town that has seen better days. Until now, Needles tourism dollars mostly came from summer time boaters with the exceptions of a few off roads that frequent the Pirate Cove Resort.
Now off-roaders will be able to drive into the gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants throughout the city. The shared OHV routes will have a 35MPH maximum speed, and all vehicles will need to be insured, registered, and driven by a licensed operator. Helmets are also required.
At a Glance
- Status: Active. The OHMV combined-use route network is open and operational.
- Network: 9.20 miles of designated routes (≤10 miles allowed by state law).
- Speed: 35 mph maximum for OHMV travel.
- Requirements: Valid driver’s license, insurance/registration, helmets for ATV/UTV riders.
- Purpose: Connect BLM trails, services, and lodging for safe recreation and tourism.
- Legal Authority: Authorized under California Vehicle Code §38026.2 (AB 2152)
Designated Staging Areas
To improve access and reduce neighborhood impacts, two official staging areas will serve as the primary launch points for riders:
- Park Drive & River Road – Truck and trailer parking, loading zones, route kiosk, and restrooms.
- Clary Drive & Lillyhill Drive – Trailhead access, signage, fencing, and rest area amenities.
Maps & Navigation
Follow posted Begin/End OHMV Route signs, directional arrows, and the 35 mph OHMV speed limit.
Use the official map for legal access points, route boundaries, and staging area locations.
Ride Legally & Safely
- Operate only on designated OHMV corridors and obey all traffic laws.
- Carry a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance/registration at all times.
- Wear helmets (for ATV/UTV riders) and use seat restraints where equipped.
- Never exceed 35 mph on OHMV corridors.
- Yield to pedestrians, reduce dust and noise, and respect residential areas.
Community Education & Workshop
The City is launching a community education campaign with bilingual mailers, social media posts, and a public workshop to explain the routes, staging areas, and safety requirements.
Community Education & Outreach
On March 26, 2026, the City of Needles held a community workshop to provide an overview of the OHMV Pilot Program, including designated routes, safety requirements, staging areas, and legal operating guidelines.
The City will continue to provide ongoing education, updates, and safety information to support responsible use and compliance with program requirements. Subscribe to Needles Connect to receive update notices and announcements. Download the Needles Connect app on Google Play Store and the Apple Store. Or visit the official website at www.cityofneedles.com
Residents can also subscribe for updates to receive route notices, workshop announcements, and safety reminders.
Program Timeline
- 2019–2022: Program development and legislative authorization
- 2023–2025: Engineering analysis, safety review, and public outreach
- September 9, 2025: City Council adoption of OHMV Master Plan
- January 13, 2026: Signage Plan adopted
- Summer 2026: Program activated and open to the public
- Ongoing: Coordination with CHP, BLM, and law enforcement
Why This Program Was Created
- Provide a legal connection between BLM trails and city services
- Reduce trespassing and unmanaged OHV use
- Improve safety through designated corridors
- Support local businesses and tourism
Where You Can Ride
Designated OHMV routes only
Between staging areas and BLM access points
Where You Cannot Ride
Non-designated city streets
Residential areas off the corridor
From your home unless directly on a designated route
Enforcement
- Enforced by San Bernardino County Sheriff Department Colorado River Station and the California Highway Patrol
- Riding outside designated routes is prohibited
- Violations may result in citation, fines, or removal from routes
Take California’s online OHV safety course HERE.
The post ANOTHER CALIFORNIA TOWN ALLOWS OHV’S ON CITY STREETS appeared first on UTV Action Magazine.
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