Maumee State Forest (located in Swanton, Ohio) is one of my local riding locations. This is the closest state riding area for SE Michigan and NW Ohio residents. If you want a riding partner, send me a PM or email and we can make arrangements.
Here is a map of the area with directions and trail info:
http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/forestry/...umeesf_map.pdf
Permits required:
Ohio residents need an APV sticker (3 year permit)
Michigan residents need a temporary APV sticker (15 day permit).
Note: Starting Jan. 2006, Ohio DRN changed their rules and do not honor Michigan ORV stickers. Hopefully, Ohio will offer an out-of-state annual sticker.
Good news though... if your bike is street-legal/plated in Michigan (or other states), Ohio DRN will allow you to ride without any other permits. This is one reason why I got my bike plated recently.
Trail Description:
There are two loops available. There is about 5 - 6 miles of doubletrack trail. There are several singletrack connector trails throughout which are fun. Stay off of the closed trails which are clearly marked!
The trail loops run counterclockwise, which is different from Michigan trail systems. The trails here are typically a combination of sand, hardpack, and mud. No rocks in the area and only occassional tree roots/logs on the singletrack trails. The main trail loops can get whooped-out due to heavy ATV use. Occassionaly, the DRN will groom the trail with a bull dozer to knock down the whoops.
Note: the trails can get pretty wet after a good rain. The area is part of the Black Swamp/Oak Openings region. Water and mud can stay around awhile (up to a week) after a good rain.