about the 4wdabc

Stewards of British Columbia’s Backcountry

For nearly five decades, the Four Wheel Drive Association of British Columbia has worked to protect public access to public lands while promoting responsible off-road recreation.

Through volunteer stewardship, education programs, and collaboration with land managers, the association helps ensure that British Columbia’s backcountry remains accessible for generations to come.
OUR STORY

A Volunteer-Driven Association Since 1977

The Four Wheel Drive Association of British Columbia was founded in 1977 by a small group of off-road enthusiasts who believed that responsible recreation and environmental stewardship could go hand in hand.

What began as a network of local four-wheel drive clubs has grown into a province-wide association representing thousands of members across British Columbia.

Today, 4WDABC works with government agencies, recreation organizations, and community volunteers to maintain recreation infrastructure, promote responsible driving practices, and advocate for public land access.

While the association has grown over the decades, its core mission remains the same: protecting access to the backcountry while encouraging responsible use of the land.

OUR STORY

A Volunteer-Driven Association Since 1977

The Four Wheel Drive Association of British Columbia was founded in 1977 by a small group of off-road enthusiasts who believed that responsible recreation and environmental stewardship could go hand in hand.

What began as a network of local four-wheel drive clubs has grown into a province-wide association representing thousands of members across British Columbia.

Today, 4WDABC works with government agencies, recreation organizations, and community volunteers to maintain recreation infrastructure, promote responsible driving practices, and advocate for public land access.

While the association has grown over the decades, its core mission remains the same: protecting access to the backcountry while encouraging responsible use of the land.

STEWARDSHIP

Supporting Recreation Across British Columbia

4WDABC volunteers contribute thousands of hours each year maintaining recreation sites, restoring historic infrastructure, and supporting responsible recreation initiatives across the province. Examples of this work include:

  • Building and maintaining the Hale Creek shelter
  • Rebuilding and repairing fire towers such as Nahatlatch, Cornwall, Mt. Lavina, Eureka, and Jesmond
  • Organizing maintenance runs and cleanup events across BC
  • Supporting the development of recreation areas like Stave Lake Motorsport Park and Lac du Bois ORV Park
  • Hosting community events and outreach initiatives
across the province

Recreation Sites Maintained by 4WDABC

4WDABC volunteers help maintain recreation sites throughout British Columbia in partnership with Recreation Sites & Trails BC and BC Parks. These locations provide camping areas, scenic lookouts, and gathering spaces for backcountry visitors.

Our Principles

Responsible Recreation

Protecting access to public lands depends on how those lands are used. 4WDABC promotes responsible off-road recreation through stewardship, safety, and a shared code of conduct.

RESPECT THE LAND

Responsible recreation starts with protecting the places we explore. Members are encouraged to stay on designated trails, respect regulations, and leave rec areas better than they found them.

DRIVE RESPONSIBLY

Safe driving protects both people and access to the backcountry. Members are expected to follow safety rules, maintain their vehicles, and travel responsibly based on terrain and conditions.

SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY

Protecting access requires ongoing cooperation and responsibility. 4WDABC encourages collaboration among clubs, volunteers, land managers, and recreation groups across the province.

EDUCATION

Responsible Off-Road Training & Skills

Education plays a key role in protecting access to British Columbia’s backcountry. Programs like Wheeling Wisely and Wheelers of Tomorrow teach responsible off-road driving, recovery skills, and environmental stewardship.

EDUCATION

Responsible Off-Road Training & Skills

Education plays a key role in protecting access to British Columbia’s backcountry. Programs like Wheeling Wisely and Wheelers of Tomorrow teach responsible off-road driving, recovery skills, and environmental stewardship.

GOVERNANCE

Operating as a Non-Profit Society

4WDABC operates as a registered non-profit society under the BC Societies Act.

The association is governed by elected volunteers and follows established bylaws that guide its operations and responsibilities to members.

GOVERNANCE

Operating as a Non-Profit Society

4WDABC operates as a registered non-profit society under the BC Societies Act.

The association is governed by elected volunteers and follows established bylaws that guide its operations and responsibilities to members.

COMMUNITY

Connect With the 4WDABC Community

Members stay connected through online communities, regional groups, and social channels where trail information, events, and updates are shared.

Help Protect Access to British Columbia’s Backcountry

Membership supports stewardship projects, advocacy work, education programs, and the volunteer efforts that keep BC’s backcountry accessible.