Our Windrock Park UTV day trip brought us to Oliver Springs, Tennessee, during our 2021 cross-country adventure. We stopped to ride with friends and covered more than 100 miles. Along the way, we visited mountain overlooks, an abandoned railroad car and Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary.
Windrock spans 73,000 acres and offers more than 300 miles of trails. As a result, you can plan anything from a scenic mountain ride to a demanding rock-crawling day. The park welcomes UTVs, ATVs, dirt bikes and full-size off-road vehicles.
Watch Our Windrock Park Ride
More Than 100 Miles with Friends
At the park, we met Tyler from SuperATV, Hubert Rowland and David Uptain. Hubert had a full day planned for us. His route combined off-road riding with scenic stops and a look at the area’s history.
After more than 100 miles of exploring, Tyler fired up the barbecue. Ribeye steaks and a variety of organic vegetables made a great finish to the day. Together, the ride, stops and time with friends made Windrock a memorable part of our trip.
Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary
Our route also included a stop at Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in Petros. The former prison opened in 1896 and closed in 2009. Then, in 2018, it reopened to visitors.
Today, you can tour the historic grounds and learn about the prison’s past. Before adding it to your ride plans, check Brushy Mountain’s official website for seasonal hours and tour details. Ask Windrock staff about current access when planning your route.
The Abandoned Train Stop
Another stop brought us to an abandoned railroad car. It added a different kind of scenery to the day, alongside the mountain views and wooded trails. However, this is a record of our 2021 visit. Confirm current access with park staff before trying to repeat that stop.
Planning a Windrock Park UTV Day Trip
Start with Windrock’s General Store at 921 Windrock Road, Oliver Springs, TN 37840. Trail ratings range from easy gravel roads to extremely difficult routes. Therefore, choose a route that fits your vehicle and your group’s experience.
- Permits: Every person entering the trail system needs a land-use permit, including passengers. Check current permit options and prices before your visit.
- Navigation: Use Windrock’s current GPS map app and confirm trail conditions with staff. The older map below provides historical context.
- Trail rules: Stay on marked trails and follow vehicle designations. Review the park’s rules before riding.
- Longer stays: Windrock offers camping and lodging. Visit the official visitor guide to plan your stay.
Windrock Park Trail Map
More Cross-Country UTV Adventures
Windrock was one stop on our larger journey. For more, read our cross-country trip with our Can-Am Maverick X3. We also explored West Virginia’s Hatfield-McCoy Devil Anse Trail System. Finally, browse our UTV ride spots for more destination ideas.
