Hungry Valley SVRA Loop
Premier state OHV park with technical variety
Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area sprawls across 19,000 acres of chaparral-covered hills northwest of Gorman, serving up everything from mild dirt roads to gnarly rock gardens that’ll test your undercarriage. The main loop system connects a network of numbered trails through rolling terrain where oak-dotted hillsides give way to exposed rock outcropings and steep climbs that reward drivers with sweeping views across the San Joaquin Valley. Trail 6 and the notorious Gold Hill climb separate weekend warriors from serious wheelers with loose shale, off-camber sections, and technical rock steps.
Difficulty ranges from easy fire roads to expert-level rock crawling, making this a perfect spot for mixed-skill groups. Stock vehicles can handle the perimeter roads, but the technical trails demand skid plates, low-range gearing, and experienced drivers. Open year-round with day-use fees required, though summer heat can be brutal. Dispersed camping available, but no water or facilities in the backcountry. This is California’s premier state-run OHV destination, offering legal technical driving just two hours from Los Angeles with endless route combinations to explore.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Mixed, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 25 mi / 40.2 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4200 ft |
| Best season | October-May |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Gorman, CA |
| Land manager | California State Parks |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle the technical sections?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with decent tires can handle most of the loop, though the rock gardens will test your line choice. You'll want skid plates for the gnarlier sections.
Is Hungry Valley open during summer months?
The park stays open year-round, but summer temps can hit 100°F+ with brutal sun exposure. October through May offers the best weather for wheeling.
Do I need to buy permits in advance or can I pay at the gate?
You can pay the day-use fee at the entrance station, but camping requires advance reservations through ReserveCalifornia. Day-use is around $10 per vehicle.
What's the hardest obstacle on the loop?
The rock gardens on the eastern section will give most rigs trouble - loose boulders and off-camber sections that'll pucker your seat. Take your time and spot carefully.
Are there water sources or should I bring everything?
No reliable water sources on the trail - pack everything you need for drinking, cooking, and potential radiator top-offs. The nearest supplies are back in Gorman.