North Sand Hills OHV Area (BLM) — Colorado’s Sand Dune Riding Destination
The North Sand Hills OHV Area is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) recreation site in Jackson County, in Colorado’s remote North Park region. Unlike the state’s many rocky trail systems, North Sand Hills stands out for its open sand riding—a rare chance in Colorado to experience dune-style terrain with wide, rolling sand features and open play areas.
The BLM describes the site as very popular, especially on summer holiday weekends, thanks to its unique setting and riding opportunities for dirt bikes, ATVs, side-by-sides, and sand rails. The views don’t hurt either: the dunes sit under the gaze of the Medicine Bow Mountains, and the broader area offers a high-country, wide-open feel that’s hard to find in busier parts of the state.
What You Can Do Here
- Ride dunes and sand terrain with room to explore and practice sand handling skills.
- Camp nearby and make it an overnight trip (expect a more basic, bring-your-own setup).
- Explore the surrounding region for additional outdoor recreation beyond the dunes.
Seasonal Access and Closures
North Sand Hills is seasonally closed to motorized use from December 15 through April 15 each year. If you’re planning a trip in shoulder seasons, double-check current status and any posted restrictions before you head out.
For official details (including closure dates and current guidance), start with the BLM’s visit page:
North Sand Hills OHV Area (BLM).
Camping and On-Site Etiquette
This is not a highly developed destination, and that’s part of the appeal. Expect a more self-sufficient experience: pack water, food, tools, recovery gear, and everything you need to handle changing conditions. Ride and camp responsibly—sand systems and surrounding vegetation can be fragile, so follow posted signage and stay within allowed use areas.
Possible Management Changes (2026 Planning Effort)
As of January 2026, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and the BLM have been discussing a potential shift where North Sand Hills could be reclassified as a Recreation Area within the Colorado State Park system, while BLM would retain ownership and CPW would play a cooperative role in managing recreation. The goal is to better match management to real-world recreation demand while still protecting the area’s resources.
