Looking to have some off-roading fun? Then go ATV riding in South Carolina. Here is a recreation ATV riding guide to start.
South Carolina is known for its beaches, golf courses, and historic districts, offering beautiful views wherever you go. From sandy hills to swamp lands and mountainous roads, the state offers plenty of places to fuel your passion for ATV riding.
With South Carolina’s abundance of natural landscapes and varied terrain, this state is indeed one of the best places for off-roading.
If you’re planning to visit anytime soon, make sure to read on and learn the basics of ATV riding in South Carolina.
Can You Ride ATVs in South Carolina?
While ATVs are not street legal in South Carolina, you’ll still find exciting places to ride an ATV. From the hills of northwest South Carolina to the marshes and coastal regions, South Carolina has a nice variety of ATV trails just waiting to be explored.
Places you can ride ATVs in South Carolina:
- Public Lands and National Forests such as the Francis Marion National Forest trail systems
- ATV trails systems
- Private ATV parks
- Private guided ATV tours
South Carolina may be known for its white sandy beaches but the state also has a large amount of forest acreage for off-roading. With the private ATV parks having the majority of riding locations.
Read our guide to the Best ATV trails in South Carolina for our pick of the top places for South Carolina ATV Riding.
Do you Need a License to Drive an ATV in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, you do not need a special license to operate an ATV. However, drivers under the age of 16 must complete a hands-on ATV driver safety course that’s been approved by the All Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute.
A parent should not allow a child below age 6 to operate an ATV as the legal age for operating an ATV in South Carolina is 6 and above.
For more information about ATV laws in South Carolina, go to South Carolina State House site.
South Carolina ATV Trail Maps
Most trail systems will provide you with a trail map when you arrive at your riding location. However, if you are a regular ATV rider and want a great ATV trail map navigation system, we recommend the onX off-road App membership.
You can also view many of the South Carolina’s National Forest trail maps underneath each section of trails.
Can You Ride ATVs in the South Carolina National Forests?
Yes. You can ride South Carolina’s national forest, specifically the Francis Marion National Forest and Sumter National Forest.
Francis Marion has two popular loops that are part of the Wambaw Cycle Trail, with up to 40 miles of off road trails. Sumter National forest offers three distinct ATV trails spread across two rangers districts.
South Carolina ATV Rentals
Here are the best places to rent an ATV in South Carolina.
Fun ATV Riding Clothes
While protective gear is essential on the trail, it’s ok to look cute and share your wilder riding side with the world. I’m a big fan of ball caps and love this adorable “ATV hair, Don’t Care” hat from Sew Vivid Design on Etsy. Be sure to Check out all this cute ATV apparel.
Download Your FREE Pre Ride Inspection Checklist
Recommended ATV Riding Resources
- Top ATV Trails Near Me in the Southeast
- Must-Have ATV Accessories
- ATV Riding Clothes– Everything you need to get started
- ATV Trails Near Me Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
For more exciting ATV riding destinations, you can read our ATV riding in West Virginia guide.
And if you’ve been all around the US and looking for more places to ride outside the country, why not try an Off-Roading ATV Adventure In Sayulita, Mexico.
