FR 12

This trail is located within the John M. Bethea State Forest and is part of the Osceola Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which comprises this State Forest and the abutting National Forest (NF). The trail is open to public access year-round unless otherwise posted. Vehicle access rules vary between the National Forest and the State Forest. This trail is open only to registered highway legal motor vehicles. All-terrain vehicles (ATV’s), off-highway vehicles (OHV’s), side-by-sides (SxS), and unlicensed/unregistered motorcycles or vehicles are prohibited. There are no fees or permits required to access or use the trails. This trail is an internal connector trail or can be an outback trail. This trail is listed as an improved trail on forestry and WMA maps. The trail is composed mainly of compacted dirt with segments of loose sand. It is mostly a single-vehicle-wide trail, having plenty of shoulder area to allow two vehicles to pass. Expect scattered wheel ruts, whoops, and cabin roll as the terrain transitions. Following or during rain events, scattered locations of water crossing or ponding up to 12 inches can be expected. This trail does not require 4WD or High Clearance, however the conditions of connecting trails leading trails to this trail mostly require high clearance 4x4. While this trail is not difficult and could be traversed with a 2WD vehicle, getting here may be a challenge without having a high-clearance 4WD. Some of the conditions of the connecting trails are more difficult and technical, especially during or following rain or storm events. The Department of Forestry (DNF) cautions on their website and published maps that the designation of a road or trail should not be interpreted as the trail is passable, actively maintained, or safe for travel. The same should be considered if it is shown as improved. Listed as improved does not necessitate that the trail is regularly maintained. The remoteness of this area significantly limits cellular coverage. Recommend having backup navigation and communication means. Having maps offline is a must. Also would recommend paper maps or having backup GPS. Additionally with the remoteness, ensure to be equipped for self-recovery or off-road tire/vehicle repairs. There are numerous locations on trails leading out to this trail where there is evidence of vehicles getting unexpectedly trapped in sand or mud.