Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone
Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone motorized use area on the Cave Creek Ranger District.
Located in the Cave Creek District about one hour from Phoenix, this 33,500 acre area has approximately 65 miles of open motorized routes that vary in width and challenge. The primary access point is the Wildcat OHV Staging Area located on Bartlett Dam Road approximately 1 mile east of Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek AZ. All routes are two-way travel ranging in technical challenge from easy to very difficult with the majority of routes falling in the moderate to more difficult category. A highlight of this area is Camp Creek Wash (MT-413) which provides access to the Verde River and the Needle Rock Recreation Area. Please remember to stay on the routes. Driving off-road is prohibited on the Tonto National Forest.
Motorized use requires a Tonto NF OHV Permit. See the OHV Permit FAQ for details about when a motorized use permit is needed. Be sure you’ve reviewed the Rules and Regulations of the OHV areas and please recreate responsibly!
This OHV trailhead provides access to the Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone along Bartlett Dam Road at MT-388.
This OHV trailhead provides access to the Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone along Bartlett Dam Road at MT-404.
Wildcat OHV Staging Area is accessed off Bartlett Dam Road, 3/4 mile east of the Cave Creek District Office.
This OHV trailhead provides access to the Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone at 144th Street and MT-2123.
This OHV trailhead provides access to the Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone at the end of 136th Street.
This OHV trailhead provides access to the Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone along Lone Mountain Road near 160th Street.
This OHV trailhead provides access to the Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone from Needle Rock Road.
This OHV trailhead provides access to the Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone from Needle Rock Road at MT-2117.
Camp Creek Wash (MT 413) is a popular destination for OHV recreation on the Cave Creek Ranger District.