Getting Oriented
Sahara Woods sits in southern Illinois' Saline County, on ground the Bankston Creek Collieries and Sahara Coal Company strip-mined from 1936 to 1993. The company donated the property to the state in 1999, and Illinois Department of Natural Resources crews spent the next quarter-century working through the Abandoned Mine Lands Program, more than $10 million in reclamation, before the OHV park opened on May 2, 2025. It's the only IDNR-designated off-highway vehicle site in Illinois, which makes it the default destination for riders across the state rather than one option among several.
Trail Overview
The trail system runs nearly 30 miles across the reclaimed spoil ridges, alternating between open grassland where the old mine spoil was reseeded and stretches of hardwood timber that grew back on undisturbed ground. IDNR hasn't published a difficulty rating or color-coded system for the network, so riders should treat the whole park as suited to a range of skill levels until they've scouted it themselves. Entry and exit are restricted to marked width-bollard points, and cutting a new line off the designated trail isn't allowed.
Points of Interest
- Trail visitors center, a 3,400-square-foot building with restrooms and paved parking
- Sahara Lake and an adjacent public hunting area, both on IDNR land bordering the OHV park
- Shawnee National Forest's sandstone country to the south, including Bell Smith Springs, Jackson Falls, and Garden of the Gods
Where to Stay
Sahara Woods operates as a day-use site. IDNR's park listing doesn't include on-site camping, so Harrisburg, five miles east, is the closest town for lodging and meals.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Register online before arrival (waiver of liability plus payment). On-site kiosks exist, but riders still have to complete the forms themselves before unloading.
- ROPS and manufacturer seatbelts are required on UTVs. DOT-approved helmets are mandatory for operators and passengers unless the vehicle has a fully enclosed metal cab with roll protection.
- OHVs need working brakes, a spark arrestor, and a muffler. Aftermarket exhaust and stereo systems can't exceed 96 decibels.
- Every vehicle has to arrive on a trailer. Riding an OHV on public roads to or from the park isn't allowed.
- Riders under 16 need a parent or guardian's signed waiver and direct supervision from a licensed adult 18 or older. Riders 16 and up need a valid driver's license.
- The park is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Monday, May 1 through January 31. It's closed February through April.
- Questions go to the OHV office at 618-707-1411 or DNR.SaharaWoodsOHV@illinois.gov.
Fuel and Water
There's no fuel, food, or potable water for sale inside the park. Harrisburg, about five miles east on Illinois Route 13, is the closest town with gas stations and restaurants.
Nearby
Sahara Lake and a public hunting area sit on IDNR land bordering the OHV park. Shawnee National Forest's sandstone bluff country is a short drive south, including Bell Smith Springs, Jackson Falls, and Garden of the Gods.
