Nicholson-Ford OHV Park

Nicholson Ford OHV Park is a 120-acre river-bottom woodland riding facility in Marshall County near Marshalltown, managed by the Iowa River OHV Club under Iowa DNR oversight. The park's defining characteristic is its river-bottom forest setting, one of the relatively rare Iowa OHV parks built in mature woodland rather than on reclaimed mine or quarry land. Approximately 20 miles of tight, technical single-track trail thread through small hills, dry creek beds, and seasonally muddy bog sections in the Iowa River floodplain forest. The wooded single-track format favors smaller, more agile machines, off-road motorcycles and smaller ATVs are the natural fit, though UTVs and larger ATVs can access some of the wider sections. Off-road motorcycles, ATVs, and off-road utility vehicles are all permitted; a large, flat staging area at the trailhead provides adequate parking and turning room for trailered rigs. Day-use only; no on-site camping. Toilet facilities are available at the trailhead. A valid Iowa DNR OHV registration sticker is required. The club-operated model means trail conditions reflect volunteer maintenance capacity, conditions can vary seasonally and after flood events. Contact the Iowa River OHV Club before visiting to confirm current trail status.