Black Swamp OHV Trailhead
This trail offers eight miles of off-highway-riding. The trail is designated for all-terrain vehicles and trail bikes. ATVs are defined as having seat to be straddled by the operator and a handlebar for steering, with three, four, or six wheels and under 60 inches in width.
Riding off-highway vehicles at Black Swamp OHV Trail on the Croatan National Forest requires a pass sold only on Recreation.gov.
At the website, search on Black Swamp OHV and select the 1-day pass for $5 or the annual pass for $30.
You don’t need to print a copy of the day pass. You can store the pass on your smart phone or other device and show it to confirm your purchase. If you buy an annual pass, you can print the pass to display on your tow vehicle.
- Each OHV needs a pass.
- You must enter the names for each rider and a license plate for each tow vehicle that will be at the trailhead. A state driver’s license must be available to show during a law enforcement compliance check.
- Passes can be downloaded to each rider’s phone or printed at home and carried on the trail. You can email and text passes to each rider if one person is making purchases for multiple riders.
General Information
Year round
Children under 8 may not operate ATVs or motorcycles. Children under age 12 may not operate any ATV 70cc or larger. Children under age 16 may not operate any ATV 90cc or larger. Operators under 16 must be under the supervision of a person over 18 years of age. Helmets and eye protection are mandatory. No passengers allowed on ATVs, unless they are designed by manufacturer to carry passengers. Unlicensed vehicles are not allowed on designated Forest Service roads. Alcohol is prohibited on the trail system and in the dispersed camping areas. Spark arresters, mufflers, and brakes are required for all motorized vehicles.
Riding off-highway vehicles at Black Swamp OHV Trail on the Croatan National Forest requires a pass sold only on Recreation.gov. At the website, search on Black Swamp OHV and select the 1-day pass for $5 or the annual pass for $30.
Contact Name: Croatan Ranger District
Contact Phone: (252) 638-5628
Address: 141 E. Fisher Avenue New Bern, NC 28562
Phone: (252) 638-5628
Hours: (Mon - Fri) 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Office is closed from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.croatan@usda.gov
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 34.907181
Longitude: -77.101993
Directions
From US 70 E between New Bern and Havelock turn right onto FS1100. There will be a White church at this turn. Road will be paved and then turns to gravel. Cross the 2nd bridge and turn at the next left onto Black Swamp Road. OHV trail head is on the left.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV)
OHV Trail Riding