Hungry Valley SRVA - Southern California Off-Roading Paradise

Spanning diverse terrains that include hills and valleys, grasslands, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands, Hungry Valley offers a vast playground for motorcycle enthusiasts, four-wheel drive aficionados, and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riders.

With approximately 130 miles of marked trails catering to all skill levels and over 150 miles of National Forest off-road routes, the area provides ample opportunities for off-road riding and exploration. Additionally, hikers and mountain bikers can enjoy scenic trails like Freeman Canyon and Overlook, which offer views across Hungry Valley's hills, grasslands, and oak woodlands.

How to Get to Hungry Valley SRVA

From the North (Bakersfield):

1. Take Interstate 5 south for approximately 55 miles.
2. Exit onto Smokey Bear Road.
3. At the bottom of the off-ramp, turn left at the stop sign and travel under the freeway.
4. At the next stop sign, turn left onto Pyramid Lake Road.
5. Make an immediate right onto Hungry Valley Road, which is a dirt road.
6. Look for the brown sign indicating Hungry Valley SRVA.

From the South (Los Angeles):

1. Take Interstate 5 north for about 60 miles.
2. Exit at the Gorman Exit.
3. Turn right at the bottom of the off-ramp.
4. Make another right onto Peace Valley Road.
5. The entrance to the park is one mile north on Peace Valley Road.

Visitors should be prepared for dirt roads and ensure their vehicles are suitable for off-road conditions.

Destination Overview

Hungry Valley SRVA sits within a landscape that showcases the natural beauty of California's diverse ecosystems. The area ranges in elevation from 2,600 feet to over 8,000 feet in the adjoining Los Padres National Forest, offering varied terrain for all types of off-highway vehicles and outdoor activities.

The park is equipped with approximately 130 miles of marked trails, ranging from flat and level paths suitable for beginners to steep and narrow routes for seasoned riders. Additionally, over 150 miles of National Forest off-road routes provide even more opportunities for exploration.

Click map to enlarge. Download ohv.parks.ca.gov.

For motorcycle enthusiasts, Hungry Valley features a one-mile-long practice track for bikes 100cc or larger, as well as a practice mini-track for beginners on ATVs and motorcycles up to 90cc located at the Smith Forks campground.

The Quail Canyon Special Use Area caters to a wide range of rider abilities with three distinct tracks: a large motocross track, a vintage track, and a Pee Wee track. Visitors can find detailed information and hours of operation for Quail Canyon by visiting the official Hungry Valley SRVA website.

Safety is paramount at Hungry Valley SRVA. All off-road vehicles must be equipped with a spark arrestor and possess either a current highway registration or a current off-highway vehicle green or red sticker, with the red sticker riding season running from October 1 to April 30. Operators are required to wear appropriate safety gear at all times.

While the park primarily serves OHV enthusiasts, it also welcomes hikers and mountain bikers, offering access to areas such as Freeman Canyon and Overlook, which provide views across Hungry Valley's hills and oak-lined valleys.

The surrounding 60-acre hike-in natural preserve protects stands of valley oak and native grasses, making it a haven for wildflower viewing during the spring months. Ranger-led tours enhance the visitor experience by providing educational insights into the local flora and fauna.

Visitors are advised to come prepared with water, sunscreen, and hats to protect against the elements. Appropriate clothing is essential, especially for hikers who should avoid wearing shorts due to the presence of ticks and chaparral. Given the park's varied climate, layering clothing is recommended to accommodate the significant temperature fluctuations between seasons.

Hungry Valley SRVA offers a unique blend of OHV riding, natural terrain, and recreational opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Southern California.