Sahara Woods OHV Area
Sahara Woods State Fish and Wildlife Area OHV Park near Carrier Mills in Saline County is the only state-managed OHV park in Illinois, the anchor of the Illinois DNR's OHV grant program that helps fund the state's other riding areas. The park is built on a reclaimed coal mine site, which provides the kind of varied post-industrial terrain that Illinois's otherwise flat agricultural landscape cannot produce naturally. Approximately 30 miles of trails traverse the former mine landscape, passing through areas that retain visible evidence of surface mining operations, the only place in Illinois where OHV riders can drive through an old mine area. ATVs, off-highway motorcycles, and recreational OHVs up to 64 inches wide are permitted. ROPS (roll-over protection structure) and seatbelts are required for all OHVs; helmets are mandatory for all riders regardless of age, requirements strictly enforced. The day-use fee is $20 per vehicle. An IDNR OHV usage stamp is also required. Paved parking, a visitor center, and restrooms are on-site. The facility is professionally maintained by IDNR staff rather than volunteers, producing consistent trail conditions. Contact the Illinois DNR Southern Region for hours and current conditions.