San Gabriel Canyon OHV Area
The San Gabriel Canyon Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area and Obstacle Course, located 11 miles north of Azusa, California, offers an rugged challenge for off-road enthusiasts. Spanning over 160 acres of rocky, sandy river bottom, this destination offers off-road routes for trucks, ATVs and motorcycles.
Visitors can also challenge themselves at the dedicated obstacle course designed to test driving skills. The area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and provides a unique blend of rugged terrain and outdoor adventure in the scenic San Gabriel Mountains. Reservations are required through Recreation.gov.
Destination Details
| Season | Year-round, weekends only (8 a.m.–4 p.m.) |
| Location | 11 miles north of Azusa, CA, on Highway 39 |
| General GPS Coordinates | 34.2376600, -117.859874 |
| Management | U.S. Forest Service |
| Fees | $8 primary vehicle, $5 secondary vehicle (+$2 Recreation.gov fee) |
| Reservations | Required via Recreation.gov |
| Facilities | Vault toilets, potable water, parking |
| Restrictions | Alcohol prohibited, spark arresters required, speed limits enforced |
| Nearest Town | Azusa, CA (11 miles) |
| Contact Information | San Gabriel Mountains National Monument (747) 322-6643 |
How to Get to the San Gabriel Canyon OHV Area
From Los Angeles, take Interstate 210 east to Azusa, then head north on Highway 39 for approximately 11 miles. Look for the entrance to the San Gabriel Canyon OHV Area on the right-hand side of the road.
The staging area serves as the main access point, offering parking, restrooms, and information. Be sure to secure your reservation through Recreation.gov before arriving, as on-site reservations are not available, and there is no cell service in the area.
Destination Overview
The San Gabriel Canyon OHV Area provides an exceptional off-roading experience in Southern California. Its diverse terrain is suitable for vehicles ranging from ATVs to 4x4s.
The main OHV area covers a rugged riverbed, offering sandy trails and rocky crossings catering to various skill levels. The obstacle course, situated within the site near the staging area, provides a controlled environment for testing vehicle capabilities and honing off-roading techniques.
This area operates on a reservation-only system to manage visitor capacity and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience. Reservations can be made via Recreation.gov, and all vehicles must meet California’s off-highway vehicle regulations, including current registration and approved spark arresters.
Safety precautions are strictly enforced, including mandatory vehicle inspections and a prohibition on alcohol. Visitors should plan ahead by bringing printed or downloaded QR codes for entry, as internet access is unavailable. If it has rained a lot in recent time, high-clearance vehicles are recommended due to challenging stream crossings.
The San Gabriel Canyon OHV Area is a popular destination with medium to heavy usage, especially on weekends and holidays. Visitors can enjoy a full day of adventure. Still, all activities must conclude by 4:30 p.m. Nearby amenities, such as food services at Camp Williams and gas stations in Azusa, add convenience to your trip.
Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or a newcomer looking to explore, the San Gabriel Canyon OHV Area offers a thrilling outdoor experience against the stunning backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains.
For more off-road ideas, check out our guide to OHV areas in Southern California.
