Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Program
The Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Program by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources funds development, restoration, and education projects for public OHV parks and trails in Illinois.
Funder: Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to 100% reimbursement of approved project costs; no maximum award per project; annual program cap varies—recent cycles up to $500,000/project.
Summary: Supports the development, operation, maintenance, and acquisition of public off-highway vehicle (OHV) parks and trails, as well as restoration and educational initiatives in Illinois.
Key Information: Application fee required; prequalification in the Illinois GATA portal is mandatory.
Description
The Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), provides financial assistance to government agencies, not-for-profit organizations, private OHV clubs, business entities, and individuals for projects related to the development, operation, maintenance, and acquisition of land for public OHV parks and trails in Illinois. The program also supports restoration of areas damaged by unauthorized OHV use and funds rider education, safety programs, and facility security. Funding is derived from the Off-Highway Vehicle Trails Fund, supported by state OHV usage stamp revenues.
Eligible projects include land acquisition from willing sellers, trail and facility construction or maintenance, restoration of impacted lands, and educational or safety initiatives. The program is designed to expand recreational opportunities and promote environmental stewardship for off-highway vehicle activities statewide.
