Ride Iowa’s Gypsum City OHV Park
The Gypsum City Off-Highway Vehicle Park in Fort Dodge, Iowa, is an 800-acre park with 60 miles of trails. The park is constantly expanding and one day may encompass 1,500 acres.
Built on former mining land, the park came about in a cooperative effort by government agencies and officials, state lawmakers, non-profit groups and four gypsum companies.
Besides 60 miles of trails, the park includes a 1.5-mile motocross track, a .4-mile kids’ track and a beginner circle track.
Trails range from open prairie to heavily wooded areas that include water crossings and mud.
OHVs must have and display a valid state Department of Natural Resources registration. Non-residents must have their vehicles registered in their home state and must have evidence of registration. This requirement is waived if the rider’s home state doesn’t have a registration or numbering system.
Trail head signs indicate what machines are allowed on trails.
The Gypsum City OHV Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. There may be closures due to the weather or park maintenance so check before you go at https://www.iowadnr.gov/Things-to-Do/Off-Highway-Vehicles/OHV-Parks-and-Rules/OHV-Park-Closures.
All nonresidents must display an IDNR Non-resident User Permit. These are available at County Recorder’s Offices and any license agent that sells hunting and fishing licenses.
Helmets are required, riding off the trail is prohibited and riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited.
Your machine must meet a sound limit of 96 decibels measured at a distance of 50 feet.
Gypsum City OHV Park Campground has first-come first-serve sites, as well as reservable sites. To reserve a site go to www.mycountyparks.com. The campground offers full hook-up and electric/water-only sites. Site amenities will include water, electricity, sewer, picnic table, and grill. A mens’ and womens’ shower/restroom, informational kiosk and park office are on-site.
Fort Dodge has several hotels, restaurants and gas.
Directions: The Gypsum City Off-Highway Vehicle Park is at 2390 Mill Rd., 2 miles southeast of Fort Dodge just off U.S. Highway 20. To get there from U.S. Highway 20 take exit 124 North (P59) and then go west on Mill Road. The park entrance will be on the left. Address: Gypsum City OHV Park, 2390 Mill Road, Fort Dodge, IA 50501.
Contact: The park is managed by the Webster County Conservation Board, Park Manager Darren Herzog. Phone: (515) 576-4258. Website: www.fortdodgeiowa.org.
For more information go to https://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Webster/Content/Gypsum-City-OHV-Park.aspx.
