The Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area is in Alameda & San Joaquin counties, California. It is high in the wooded hills between Livermore and Tracy. It is a top destination for off-road adrenaline. Nestled in a landscape steeped in Gold Rush and mining history, Carnegie SVRA offers over 5,000 acres of dirt tracks, rugged hill climbs, family camping, and outdoor classes—perfect for thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
What Makes Carnegie SVRA Unique
Carnegie SVRA was once the site of the historic Tesla coal and brick company. Now it combines challenging terrain—rocky washes, oak-studded ridges, steep canyons. It also maintains a commitment to environmental stewardship. Trails range from motocross courses to scenic multi-use paths, while conservation areas protect rare wildlife like red-legged frogs and tule elk in a desert-like Mediterranean climate.
Top Activities & Amenities
Off‑Road Vehicle Trails & Tracks
Carnegie SVRA features over 80 miles of officially designated riding roads, including motocross tracks, ATV/MC tracks, 70 cc and 110 cc beginner loops, hill climbs, trials area, and a rugged 4×4 obstacle zone. Riders of all levels—from young beginners to expert rock crawlers—find their ideal terrain here.
Camping Sites & Group Facilities
The shaded valley campground offers 23 first-come, first-served sites with fire rings, picnic tables, shade ramadas, and potable water. Vault restrooms, coin-operated showers, and a payphone are nearby. Group staging areas support events and large-family gatherings.
Day-Use Picnic Areas & Visitor Center
Valley floor staging zones include covered picnic ramadas, BBQ pits, restrooms, and water faucets. The MotoMart store sells parts, refreshments, firewood, and gear. A ranger kiosk and accessible comfort station provide visitor support.
Drinking Water, Showers & Dump Station
Potable water is available at faucets throughout the campground and staging areas. Showers require quarters and are located at the east end. Although there is no RV dump station yet, plans are underway for future installation.
Hiking & Wildlife Viewing
Paved access roads and accessible trails lead through oak woodlands where bird species, deer, coyote, bobcat, and even tule elk are spotted. Interpretive programs by park rangers and volunteers bring local wildlife stories to life.
OHV Training & Educational Programs
Carnegie SVRA hosts Junior Ranger classes, ATV and dirt‑bike safety courses, and OHV training. The park’s team works closely with volunteers to offer stewardship education and hands-on trail rehabilitation opportunities.
Visitor Tips
- Park open daily 8 am to sunset; closed after rain or maintenance—check ahead for trail closures.
- Day-use OHV fee $5/vehicle; camping $10/night per vehicle — include trailer or ATV.
- OHV vehicles must display current green/red sticker or nonresident permit; spark arrestors and helmets required.
- Campers may arrive after 2 pm and leave by noon; quiet hours 10 pm–6 am, no generators.
- Dogs allowed on-leash in campground and staging areas only—not on trails.
- No ground fires; bring your own firewood or buy onsite from MotoMart.
- Bring quarters for showers and plan for no RV hookups or dump station access yet.
- Stay on designated trails to protect wildlife and avoid habitat closures.
- Watch for trail maintenance closures Mon–Fri (summer): Kiln Canyon, Los Osos, and others may be closed.
- Pack water and sunscreen—summer temps often exceed 90 °F; winter rain can muddy trails and close areas.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Visit in spring when wildflowers carpet the hills and wildlife sightings are most frequent at dawn and dusk. For a scenic lunch stop, hike the ridge trail above Los Osos—weeping flora, birds of prey overhead, and sweeping views are your reward. If you’re planning to camp, arrive Friday afternoon to secure a shaded site and stay for a Saturday motocross or hill climb event—watching riders carve the hills is a highlight even for non-riders.