Carnegie ride area
General Information
Welcome to Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA). Located in the hills of southern Alameda and San Joaquin counties, Carnegie is one of six SVRAs administered by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. With a diversity of terrain ranging from rolling hills to steep canyons, Carnegie has become a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts of all skill levels.
TERRAIN
With over 1,500 acres of riding area, Carnegie offers a variety of terrain upon which to ride. Characterized by dry rocky washes, rolling hills and steep, rugged canyons, the park provides a setting for off-highway vehicle users of all skill levels.
DAY USE/CAMPING
Day-use hours vary depending upon the time of year but generally range from 8 a.m. to sunset. Twenty-three campsites are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Ramadas, fire rings, restrooms and water faucets are provided for campers. Water and electrical hook-ups are not available. Picnic tables are located throughout the valley floor; however, fires are restricted to the fire rings provided in the campground.
RIDING FACILITIES
The following facilities are operated by park staff and are open to the public unless a special event is scheduled:
- Motocross Track — this popular track is open to motorcycles only. Formalized competitive events are held on some weekends causing periodic closures to the public. Call the park at 925-447-9027 for details regarding the schedule of upcoming events.
- ATV/MC Track — open to both ATVs and motorcycles.
- 70cc Children's Track — designated for motorcycles and ATVs with small engines up to 70cc displacement, the track offers young riders an opportunity to practice and improve their riding skills.
- 110cc Beginner Track — designated for motorcycles and ATVs with small engines up to 110cc displacement, the track offers young riders an opportunity to practice and improve their riding skills.
INCLEMENT WEATHER CLOSURES
Extreme weather conditions like rain and flooding, may force temporary closures of all or part of the park. During periods of adverse weather it is best to call ahead in order to receive up-to-date information on riding conditions. If foul weather closures are in effect, a red warning light will be activated at the Ranger Station.
SAFETY TIPS
- It is recommended that motorcycle and ATV riders take part in a formal safety training course under the supervision of a certified instructor. Such training is mandatory for ATV operators under the age of 18. Call the ATV Safety Institute at 800-786-5559.
- Inexperienced riders should thoroughly acquaint themselves with all vehicle controls before starting out.
- Identify potential hazards and familiarize yourself with the terrain when traveling new routes by making your first ride a slow ride! Avoid surprises!
- Drive within the limits of your abilities. Don't go faster or climb higher than you can safely handle. When in doubt, survey the situation before proceeding.
- Summer at Carnegie can mean temperatures in the 100s! Always carry plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
EMERGENCIES
The State Park Rangers who patrol Carnegie are Peace Officers trained in emergency medical treatment and can coordinate an ambulance response if necessary. If no ranger is available, dial 911 from one of the two phones located at the campground restroom or behind the ranger station at the park entrance. Do not move an injured person or remove their helmet unless the person is in immediate danger. Hospitals are located in both Tracy and Livermore.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Consistent with the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Act of 1988, the condition of soils, wildlife and vegetative resources are continually monitored by park staff to determine if soil loss standards and habitat protection plans are being met. Through this monitoring process, changes (such as erosion or wildlife population variations) can be detected and the appropriate action can be taken to mitigate problems. Consequently, from time to time, certain trails or hill climb areas may be fenced off or closed in an effort to protect wildlife and restore habitat. These closed areas are often replanted with native plant species in order to repair and rehabilitate those areas damaged by recreational use. By taking a proactive and dynamic approach to resource protection, Carnegie SVRA is now at the forefront in resource management within the state's many OHV riding areas, a status OHV users can be proud of!
In an effort to offset potential resource problems, it is imperative that riders
stay on existing trails and avoid vegetated areas. Remember, maintaining riding
opportunity is clearly dependent upon good resource management and the continued
support of the many OHV users who recreate at Carnegie!
