The Mulberry River Valley is one of Arkansas’ best-kept OHV secrets. Two separate Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) trail systems flank the valley — Boston Mountain to the west, Pleasant Hill to the east — plus a major private riding park at Byrd’s Adventure Center. The Cass House is located on Hwy 215, between both trail systems — less than 10 minutes from active riding.

Overview: OHV Riding in the Ozark National Forest

The Ozark National Forest manages hundreds of miles of roads and trails open to motorized vehicles through the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) system. The MVUM shows exactly where OHVs, ATVs, motorcycles, and 4WDs are permitted — which roads are open, which are restricted, and which trails are designated for off-highway use. Riding outside MVUM-designated areas is a federal violation. Get the map. It’s the single most important thing you can bring.

The terrain here is the Arkansas Ozarks at their best: sandstone ridges, creek drainages, hardwood forest, and enough elevation change to make it interesting. Rocky, rooted terrain throughout — significant elevation change on both systems, creek crossings (depth varies dramatically by season), and generally excellent drainage after rain compared to clay-heavy systems elsewhere.

Trail System 1: Boston Mountain MVUM

Ranger District: Boston Mountain  |  Location: West of Cass, toward Mill Creek OHV Area  |  Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders; technical terrain

The Boston Mountain section of the Ozark National Forest is the highest and roughest part of the Ozarks. The OHV network here reflects that — it’s more rugged, more technical in places, and more rewarding for riders who want to earn their miles.

Mill Creek OHV Area

Mill Creek is the hub of Boston Mountain riding. The staging area provides parking for trucks and trailers and serves as the entry point for the designated OHV network. From here, trails fan out into the forest in multiple directions.

Vehicle types: Full-size ATVs, UTVs (side-by-sides), 4WD trucks, and dual-sport/dirt motorcycles. Narrow single-track sections limit where larger UTVs can go — check the MVUM for width restrictions.

Trail System 2: Pleasant Hill MVUM

Ranger District: Pleasant Hill  |  Location: East of Cass  |  Best for: All skill levels; families; beginners; UTVs; those wanting to cover miles

The Pleasant Hill Ranger District trail network is more accessible and less technical than the Boston Mountain system — broader forest roads, more gradual terrain, and a network that rewards exploration over raw technical ability.

Byrd’s Adventure Center — Private OHV Park

~4 miles from Cass House — In addition to the national forest systems, Byrd’s Adventure Center operates 800 acres of private OHV trails, mud pits, and obstacle courses. The original ATV park in Arkansas since 1982. Ideal for days when you want a managed, obstacle-focused experience or groups where some riders want mud pits and challenges.

What to Bring — OHV Riding Checklist

Rules & Regulations

• Ride only on designated roads and trails shown on the MVUM
• Stay on designated routes — no cross-country travel
• All state vehicle registration and equipment laws apply
• No riding in wilderness areas, on trails marked “Hiker/Horse Only,” or on closed roads
• Helmets required for riders under 18 per Arkansas law
• No permit required for national forest roads and trails — Byrd’s charges a day-use fee for private property

Best Seasons for OHV Riding

Our pick: Late September through early November is the sweet spot — cool temperatures, fall color, dry trails, and fewer crowds than peak summer weekends.

Where to Fuel Up & Get Provisions

Turner Bend Outfitters (~3 miles, Hwy 23/Pig Trail junction) — Premium gasoline, ATV/OHV maps (MVUM for both districts), deli sandwiches, beer, water, snacks, trail provisions, and camping supplies. This is your stop. Fill tanks, buy your maps, grab your lunch, and go. They know the trails and can give you current conditions.