Crosstimbers ORV Park

Crosstimbers ORV Park is the dirt bike and ATV riding area at Lake Draper, on the southeast edge of Oklahoma City. It is a network of one-way, color-coded loops over red clay with some sand, cut through post oak and cross timbers forest. The Oklahoma City Parks department runs it, not a private club, so despite the site owner's note that it is private, it operates as a pay-to-ride city park. Riders also know it as Draper Lake ORV Area, Draper Lake Motocross, and Cross Timbers ORV Area.

The city describes over 1,500 acres and more than 60 miles of directional trails; older listings put it at roughly 55 miles on about 960 acres. Two trails are open to both dirt bikes and ATVs: the 7-mile Green Trail and the 3-mile Grass Track, which make a good beginner loop. The 12-mile Red, 14-mile Blue, and 22-mile Black trails are for motorcycles only, and the Blue and Black are the tight, twisty singletrack for more experienced riders, with several deep creek crossings. There is also a half-mile loop for kids, an endurocross area, a motocross track, and a trials area.

Getting there

The park entrance is on the west side of the lake, off W Stanley Draper Drive. The trailhead and campground sit next to each other. The Lake Draper Marina, at 8301 SE 104th Street, sells permits and has a small store.

Fees, permits, and rules

A city riding permit is required. Motorized daily permits are $10 for adults and $2 for children 16 and under, and annual passes are $75 and $12. Buy them at the marina or online through the city's Accela Citizens Access portal under the Parks tab. Children must ride with an adult. Only two- and four-wheeled vehicles are allowed: side-by-sides and three-wheelers are not, ATVs are limited to 54 inches wide, and a spark arrestor and helmet are required. Alcohol is prohibited and riders must stay on the trails. Check the current rules on the Lake Draper site before you go.

Primitive camping next to the trailhead is $8 per night according to the Lake Draper site, and the state travel site lists restrooms, lighting, and drinking water.

When to ride

The park is open year-round in seasonal daytime hours that run longest in summer (to 9 pm) and shortest in winter (to 6 pm). Clay trails get slick and can close after rain, so call the trail status line at 405-945-1938 before making the drive.