Supporters of Oceano Dunes OHVRA rejoice in court ruling to keep the State Park open to vehicles

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY, Calif. – Supporters of the Oceano Dunes Off-Highway Vehicle Recreational Area, or OHVRA, State Park said they are relieved by a recent ruling from a local judge that overturns a decision by the California Coastal Commission and California State Parks to close the dunes to vehicle access by 2025.

A spokesman for Friends of the Oceano Dunes, which strongly opposed the park's closure to vehicles, said the judge's ruling reinforces California state law in providing and allowing for public access to state parks including the Oceano Dunes OHVRA.

Environmental groups and other organizations have campaigned for the Oceano Dunes OHVRA to be closed to vehicles due to impacts to sensitive habitats for endangered or threatened wildlife as well overall public health and safety from harmful air pollution.

The issue of the OHVRA park's future use is expected to face further litigation.

In the meantime, local small business owners that rely on the Oceano Dunes OHVRA, and the people it attracts, said the judge's ruling last week gives them some hope for the future.