The park's signature terrain features massive man-made mounds formed from decades of earth-moving and trail development.
It is an official member of the Genesee County Parks and Recreation commission, making it one of the few municipal-owned ORV parks in the state.
The park soil composition is predominantly sandy, which creates deep, shifting tracks that vary significantly after rainfall.
There is a dedicated area specifically designed for 'scramble' riding rather than structured trail following.
Unlike many public lands, The Mounds allows for full-sized 4x4 vehicles, which are often restricted on narrower local forest trails.
The Mounds ORV Park is a 375-acre facility managed by the Genesee County Parks system specifically for off-road recreation. The terrain features a diverse mix of sand mounds, mud bogs, steep hills, and wooded trails. It caters to a variety of vehicle types including ATVs, dirt bikes, UTVs, and full-sized 4x4 trucks. The park is partitioned into designated areas to balance open-play technical challenges with trail riding. It is one of the few managed off-road parks in mid-Michigan that remains open for winter riding. The site includes a specific obstacle course for enthusiasts looking to test vehicle suspension and clearance. Vegetation consists primarily of mixed hardwoods and sandy scrubland common to the region.
The top of the primary sand mound, which offers a panoramic view of the entire scrambling area.
Bring a recovery strap and a spotter, as the deep sand and mud pits frequently trap vehicles.
Check the official website for mandatory ORV sticker requirements and safety flag standards before arriving.
Wear goggles and high-coverage gear, as the sandy terrain creates significant dust and debris spray.
Attempting the deepest mud pits without a winch or a support vehicle nearby.
Open year-round, though specific trail closures may occur due to extreme weather conditions or ground saturation.
Helmets are mandatory for ATV and motorcycle riders; strict 'tread lightly' principles apply to avoid off-trail environmental damage.
