Sand Hills State Forest Four Wheel Drive Complex

The Four Wheel Drive Complex at Sand Hills State Forest cuts through some of the deepest sand trails east of the Mississippi, where 35-foot tall longleaf pines tower over rolling dunes that’ll humble any overconfident weekend warrior. The main loop connects fire tower roads with technical sand pits and creek crossings, including the notorious Devil’s Backbone ridge that separates riders from walkers real quick. These aren’t beach sand trails — this is the Carolina Sandhills ecosystem where you’ll air down to 15 PSI or dig trenches.

This is moderate to difficult depending on conditions, requiring 4WD with good ground clearance and recovery gear mandatory. Best tackled April through October when the sand firms up slightly after winter rains, though summer heat can be brutal. No permits needed, but the forest service charges day-use fees. Dispersed camping available at designated spots. What you get: legitimate sand driving experience without leaving the Carolinas and some of the last intact longleaf pine ecosystem in the Southeast.