You’ll find Florida’s most accessible ghost towns through ATV trails at Ocala National Forest, where 125 miles of designated routes lead to St. Francis’s 1800s river town remains. Bradley Junction in Polk County offers industrial ruins with engine relics and fuel tank piping scattered along sandy trails. Bone Valley ATV Park’s 500 acres of reclaimed phosphate terrain connects to historic mining settlements, while Croom’s 2,600 acres provide backcountry access to forgotten logging camps and abandoned homesteads throughout the region’s mysterious past.
Key Takeaways
- St. Francis ghost town in Ocala National Forest offers 125 miles of OHV trails connecting to historic wagon roads from the 1800s.
- Bradley Junction in Central Polk County features abandoned industrial remnants with engine relics and fuel tank piping along sandy trails.
- Ocala National Forest provides ATV access to ghost town sites with primitive camping for extended historical explorations.
- Bradley Junction trails connect the ghost town to Brewster’s power plant ruins through phosphate mining territory.
- Bone Valley ATV Park sits on reclaimed phosphate mining terrain, offering access to Florida’s industrial heritage sites.
Bone Valley ATV Park and Historic Brewster
When you’re craving adrenaline-pumping trails carved from Florida’s phosphate mining heritage, Bone Valley ATV Park delivers 500 acres of reclaimed mine terrain that’ll test your machine and skills.
Located in Polk County’s legendary Bone Valley region, this Central Florida playground opened in 2015 on land where phosphate miners once extracted fortunes from the earth.
You’ll find fifteen trails ranging from leisurely rides to advanced challenges, plus rocky terrain and free-riding areas that demand respect.
The crown jewel is Bone Valley North’s moto-coaster—a roller-coaster style trail with hill-climbing twists available weekends only.
Recent grant funding from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is set to enhance the park’s motocross track facilities and safety infrastructure.
The park is currently undergoing a massive 300-acre expansion that will significantly increase recreational opportunities for riders and visitors.
While exploring these mining remnants, you’re riding through the same geological formation that built boom towns like nearby Historic Brewster, where phosphate wealth once flowed freely through forgotten streets.
Ocala National Forest Ghost Town Trails
Deep within America’s oldest national forest east of the Mississippi, you’ll discover the haunting remains of St. Francis, a forgotten river town that once thrived along the St. Johns River in the 1800s.
While the main St. Francis Trail isn’t designated for ATVs, serious trail exploration enthusiasts can access the ghost town through Ocala’s extensive OHV network.
Though the ghost town trail itself prohibits motorized vehicles, determined explorers can reach St. Francis via Ocala’s sprawling off-highway vehicle system.
Your adventure options include:
- 125 miles of designated OHV trails connecting to historic wagon roads
- Multiple access points from SR 19, CR 316, and Salt Springs trailheads
- Delancy Loops and Hog Valley Trail offering 29 miles of backcountry exploration
- Primitive camping opportunities for extended ghost town expeditions
Navigate old logging tram marks and cypress stumps where this once-booming settlement stood, surrounded by untamed wilderness. Evidence of past logging activities can still be found throughout the area, including saw marks on ancient cypress trees that tell the story of the region’s industrial heritage. Originally called Old Town, this river community served steamboat traffic until the railroad’s arrival shifted commerce away from the waterways.
Croom Motorcycle Area Adventures
Just 45 minutes north of Tampa, Croom Motorcycle Area delivers Florida’s most diverse off-road terrain across 2,600 acres of purpose-built trails and natural obstacles.
You’ll tackle steep sandy chutes, navigate tight scrubs through hardwood hammocks, and conquer mining pits that’ll test your skills.
The Croom Trails range from beginner-friendly outer loops to technical single-track that demands precision.
Weekend warriors can push limits on the Technical Riding Area‘s pro-level dirt track, open Fridays through Sundays.
When you need a break, Croom Facilities include wash stations, camping options, and the nearby Moto Ranch compound. The Moto Ranch compound sits on 5 acres of private land right inside the motorcycle area, offering single-family homes and travel trailers with direct trail access.
All riders must wear approved helmets while exploring the varied terrain that includes miles of dirt roads, gullies, and dry lake beds.
Entry requires online reservations and a $15 day pass, but you’re guaranteed access to Florida’s premier riding destination where freedom meets adrenaline.
Osceola National Forest Water Trail Explorations
You’ll find some of Florida’s most challenging water crossings along FR 212 “The Water Park” Trail, where depths range from 6 inches to over 2 feet through its 3.3-mile moderately difficult route.
Your high-clearance 4×4, SxS, or ATV will navigate frequent water obstacles that make this trail a true test of both machine and rider skills.
Silver Lake Trailhead provides your gateway into Osceola National Forest‘s 266,000 acres, where swamp shifts to scenic forest and water crossings define the adventure. Conditions become increasingly challenging after rainfall, when sticky mud surfaces beneath the water can trap even experienced riders. The forest also features packed sand surfaces along connecting routes that link various trail systems throughout the area.
FR 212 Water Challenges
When you venture onto FR 212 “The Water Park,” you’re diving into one of Osceola National Forest’s most challenging aquatic gauntlets, where water obstacles dominate this 3.3-mile moderately difficult trail.
You’ll navigate through persistent water holes ranging from 6 to 25 inches deep, even during dry spells when water levels drop elsewhere.
The trail demands serious preparation:
- High-clearance 4WD required – Standard ATVs won’t cut it through deeper sections
- Swamp crossings with sticky mud – Sand underneath provides better traction than surface suggests
- Post-rainfall depth increases – Water obstacles become considerably more challenging after storms
- Limited trail maintenance – Expect natural conditions with minimal intervention
You’ll experience surfaces shifting from packed sand between obstacles to unpredictable underwater terrain, making this Florida’s ultimate off-road water challenge. For easier navigation between challenging sections, consider utilizing Forest Highway 13 as a connector route to access other areas. Water sources throughout this region may be affected by biosolid contamination, so avoid drinking from natural sources and bring your own water supply.
Silver Lake Trail Access
While Silver Lake serves as your gateway into Apalachicola National Forest’s expansive OHV network, this trailhead stands as the sole ATV access point across the forest’s 632,890-acre wilderness.
You’ll need $10 per rider plus an OHV trail pass to gain entry to 55 miles of mixed-use trails marked in yellow, where your ATV shares technical terrain with motorcycles and UTVs.
ATV Regulations demand DOT helmets, protective gear, and proper vehicle titling before you tackle these intermediate-to-expert routes.
The staging area offers picnic tables and grills for pre-ride preparation, though camping’s prohibited.
Your pass grants access to both Apalachicola and Ocala National Forests, maximizing your backcountry exploration opportunities beyond Silver Lake’s scenic shores.
Redneck Mud Park Trail Network
As Florida’s largest family-friendly off-road park, Redneck Mud Park delivers an extensive trail network that’ll challenge your ATV skills across diverse muddy terrain.
Located at 44570 Bermont Rd in Punta Gorda, this premier destination supports swamp buggies, ATVs, trucks, and Jeeps through carefully mapped routes.
The park’s trail features cater to every skill level:
- Beginner-friendly paths wind through manageable mud holes and shallow water crossings
- Intermediate trails test your machine’s capabilities with deeper bog sections and technical obstacles
- Advanced routes push experienced riders through challenging swamp terrain and steep inclines
- Camping access trails connect overnight areas to main riding zones
You’ll find detailed trail maps on redneckmudpark.com for navigation planning.
The adventure community here thrives on camaraderie, sharing route tips and mechanical advice that’ll enhance your off-road experience.
Bradley Junction Heritage Rides
The forgotten railroad junction of Bradley Junction beckons ATV riders with its haunting blend of active CSX lines and abandoned industrial remnants scattered throughout Central Polk County’s phosphate mining territory.
You’ll discover engine relics and fuel tank piping along the main street remnants while traversing sandy trails that connect this ghost town to nearby Brewster’s power plant ruins.
Your adventure starts near Seventh Star convenience store off old Highway 37, where flat terrain transforms into muddy tracks during wet weather.
The historical remnants tell stories of Florida’s phosphate boom while you explore abandoned structures on four wheels.
Remember that CSX lines remain operational, so respect railroad property boundaries.
Bradley Junction’s industrial heritage creates a unique riding experience where past and present collide on accessible trails.
Planning Your Ghost Town ATV Expedition
Before you fire up your ATV and head toward Florida’s abandoned settlements, proper planning separates memorable adventures from dangerous mishaps in the state’s challenging terrain.
Thorough preparation transforms risky ATV expeditions through Florida’s remote ghost towns into unforgettable adventures rather than potential disasters.
Essential preparation checklist:
- Check weather forecasts – Flooding devastates trails during rainy season, turning accessible paths into impassable swamps that’ll strand you miles from help.
- Pack trail safety gear – Sunscreen, helmets, and emergency supplies protect against Florida’s relentless sun and unexpected mechanical failures in remote areas.
- Research permit requirements – Federal lands like Ocala National Forest demand proper documentation; you’ll face hefty fines without valid ATV permits.
- Prepare for wildlife encounters – Alligators inhabit mud bogs around ghost towns; carry deterrents and maintain respectful distances from potentially dangerous animals.
Match your skill level to trail difficulty ratings, ensuring you can handle challenging mud sections and water crossings safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Permits or Licenses Are Required for ATV Riding in Florida State Forests?
Muddy trails beckon as you’ll need designated OHV area permits for state forests like Croom and Clear Creek. ATV regulations require annual passes, while permit requirements include VIN verification and proof of ownership for unrestricted exploration.
Are There Age Restrictions for Children Riding ATVS on These Ghost Town Trails?
Yes, strict age requirements apply. You’ll need adult supervision for riders under 16, plus mandatory helmets and eye protection. Child safety gear’s required on all terrain, ensuring young adventurers explore ghost towns responsibly.
What Safety Gear Is Mandatory When Exploring Florida’s Ghost Town ATV Locations?
Seventy percent of ATV accidents involve inadequate safety equipment, so you’ll need helmets, eye protection, and boots when tackling Florida’s rugged ghost town terrain for maximum riding precautions and freedom.
Can You Camp Overnight at These Ghost Town ATV Sites in Florida?
Most ghost town ATV locations don’t allow overnight camping due to strict camping regulations and limited ghost town amenities. You’ll find primitive camping at nearby Tate’s Hell OHV Campground for your off-road adventures instead.
What Are the Best Months to Visit Florida Ghost Towns by ATV?
November through April offers the best time for exploring Florida’s ghost towns by ATV. You’ll enjoy perfect seasonal weather with cooler temperatures, reduced rainfall, and drier trails that’ll maximize your off-road adventures.
References
- https://www.clickorlando.com/features/2024/09/25/floridas-creepiest-ghost-town-is-stashed-on-an-island-heres-the-lowdown/
- https://www.superatv.com/offroad-atlas/the-top-12-utv-and-atv-trails-in-florida
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mANFOB5bLZA
- https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/offroad-adventures-hernando-county/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJwAIkGtWvU
- https://floridatrailblazer.com/category/ghost-towns/
- https://xploradventuregroup.com/top-5-hauntingly-fun-atv-trails-for-thrill-seekers/
- https://polkcountyfl.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6396224&GUID=3BF65E3C-93A4-479D-AFC6-DFBB10997AA2&Options=&Search=
- https://www.fox13news.com/news/bartow-native-building-new-motorcross-track-for-bone-valleys-300-acre-expansion
- https://www.polkfl.gov/things-to-do/parks-and-recreation/bone-valley-atv-park/
