The Southern California Mountains Foundation’s Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program, in partnership with the San Bernardino National Forest, recently connected with OHV enthusiasts at the Pinnacles OHV Staging Area to promote safe, responsible recreation and protect our public lands.

Alongside staff from the U.S. Forest Service, our team met with riders to share safety tips, provide free trail maps, and educate visitors on important rules and regulations. Riders also had the opportunity to receive:

• Sound level checks to ensure vehicles meet safety standards

• Spark arrester inspections to reduce wildfire risk

• Guidance on proper protective gear, from helmets and boots to gloves and chest guards
  

With the support of 80 dedicated volunteers – including 50 who contribute regularly – our OHV Program continues to make a lasting impact. Together, we’re building a safer, more sustainable recreation experience across all three ranger districts. From educating riders to assisting with trail maintenance, these volunteers are the heart of our work.

The OHV Program focuses on more than just recreation – it’s about trail stewardship and protecting the natural resources we all enjoy. Through partnerships with the U.S. Forest Service and local volunteers, we’re ensuring that Southern California’s OHV trails remain open, safe, and sustainable for generations to come.

A Huge Thank You 

A special thank-you goes out to Mike Casares, our OHV Program Manager, and every single volunteer whose dedication keeps riders safe and our forests protected. Your time, effort, and passion make this work possible. We also want to extend gratitude to the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Program at State Parks (OHMVR) which funds this program of ours,  without their grant funding to keep these trails / stewardship activities going.