Capitol State Forest is a multiuse recreation area managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. While the park is located just five miles west of Olympia, it boasts over 90,000 acres of recreational riding opportunities. There are numerous parking areas and trailheads from which to launch a ride; however, Thurston-Grays Harbor ORV Sports Park is by far the best-equipped. Amenities include campsites, picnic tables, drinking water, rest rooms and a trailer dump station. Fees run $8 per person per day for riding and $8 per vehicle for overnight parking, making it a terrific camping bargain for families of all sizes.
While the park can accommodate groups up to 5000, an early arrival is recommended to ensure admittance on holiday weekends and during special events. Be advised that camping is not permitted Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday nights. Days of operation are Fridays through Tuesdays. The park is open for riding 8 a.m. until dark during the months of April through September. Park gates are locked at 10 p.m. The Capitol Forest is open from April through the end of October, weather permitting.
The Thurston County Parks and Recreation Department's management of the Thurston ORV Sports Park serves as a role model of how local governments can manage their natural resources and how ORV facilities should be operated. An inviting entrance featuring manicured grounds, clearly posted signs and trails, separate groomed adult and children's motocross tracks and attentive staff help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Thurston ORV Park plays host to a range of off-road racing and recreational events throughout the year, including safety and education programs and skill clinics. Event schedules are available from the Parks and Recreation office or at the ORV Park.
The park is open to four-wheel-drive vehicles, motorcycles and ATVs. Trails are available for all age and skill levels. The motocross track is challenging enough for experts to compete and practice yet not too intimidating for beginners to get their feet wet. The track is open Monday, Tuesday and nonevent weekends. Always call to get the latest schedule to avoid a disappointment. A children's track, suitable for minis, is located near the entrance of the park allowing parents to keep a watchful eye on youngsters. A network of five miles of trails within the park consists mainly of intermediate single-track runs. The area is heavily wooded and shaded allowing for thick undergrowth and water retention in the form of frequent puddles. Low-lying bridges span wetland areas to encourage conservation.
Beyond the park boundary is a variety of riding opportunities within adjacent Capitol State Forest. Because of the expansive system, a trail map is strongly recommended. Keep an eye open for logging trucks as the area is actively logged. Experienced riders are encouraged to visit the North Rim #1, and Rock Candy trails for spectacular views and challenging terrain. Pay particular attention to where you are going--evidence of ORVs and bikes launched off the side of the mountain are frequent occurrences. It is best to stop when sightseeing. Don't worry, there are enough logging roads, power lines, hill climbs and tight trails to explore in a weekend that you'll need and want to come back.
Thurston ORV area is located approximately 16 miles from Olympia. Head west on I-5 toward the ocean, take exit 104 to State Highway 8 until you see the park entrance on your left. Remember to obey all posted signs and respect the privilege of riding here. All vehicles must have an ORV permit tag and U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arrestor. For more information, contact the Thurston County Parks and Recreation Department in Olympia at 360/786-5595 or the Thurston County ORV Sports Park at 360/495-3243.