National forest roads and the Motor Vehicle Use Map

The MVUM is the rule

• Motor vehicles may be used on national forest land only on the roads, trails and areas designated on the MVUM. The Ozark-St. Francis MVUM says this applies whether or not signs are present.
• MVUMs are reissued every year, and the Forest Service says getting the current one is the rider's responsibility.
• Some roads are open to highway-legal vehicles only; others are open to all vehicles. The MVUM legend shows which.
• Temporary and emergency closures also apply, so obey signs and gates.

State law still applies

The Mark Twain NF says ATVs and UTVs may use open, numbered forest roads only in compliance with state law, which in Missouri generally means a county permit or another exception. The Ouachita NF says operators and vehicles must meet state requirements on roads open to large vehicles. See state laws.

Oklahoma side of the Ouachita

The Ouachita NF extends into Oklahoma. The same rule applies there: ride only routes the current MVUM shows open to your vehicle.

Ozark-St. Francis maps and MVUMs ↗

Questions

Where this comes from

• USDA Forest Service: 2026 Motor Vehicle Use Map, Ozark-St. Francis NF (Pleasant Hill, PDF)
• USDA Forest Service: Ozark-St. Francis NF, visitor maps and MVUMs
• USDA Forest Service: Motor Vehicle Use Map information and FAQ
• USDA Forest Service: Mark Twain NF, motorcycle, ATV, UTV and mountain bike permits
• USDA Forest Service: Ouachita NF, off-highway vehicles
• USDA Forest Service: Ouachita NF FAQs (OHV riding)
• USDA Forest Service: Ouachita NF, Oklahoma Ranger District

Last reviewed 2026-10-19. General information only: the official site and posted rules always come first.