Frequently Asked Questions

Thanks for checking out East Coast Offroad Jeepers of Connecticut (ECOJOCS)! We’re a community of Jeep enthusiasts who love exploring trails, learning together, and building friendships along the way. Whether you’re brand new to off-roading or a seasoned wheeler, we’re here to help you enjoy the sport safely, legally, and responsibly.

We wheel on private properties and legal public trails throughout the Northeast.

Exact locations are not shared publicly because:

• We have agreements with property owners to ensure responsible use.

• Public trails can lose access if they’re abused or overcrowded.

Location details are for members only.

Most of our spots are outside Connecticut, but the closest are within an hour of Hartford.

We explore all over the Northeastern states. 

Most likely!

• If you have a Wrangler, CJ, Cherokee XJ, or Gladiator, you’re good to go.

• We even have a member with a lifted Liberty.

• If you have a different model, then, maybe! 

When you apply, you’ll tell us about your rig, and we’ll let you know if we have any concerns.

Absolutely. You might feel out of your comfort zone at first, but that’s why we’re here—to help you learn and have fun safely.

If you live in Connecticut, there are no legal places to wheel. The state isn’t very friendly toward our sport.

The main reason people join is access to trails, but there’s so much more:

• Knowledge & Safety – Collectively, our members have hundreds of years of combined off-road experience. We do everything legally and responsibly.

• Mentorship – Learn from experienced wheelers, then pass it on.

• Never Wheel Alone – We make sure everyone gets in and out safely.

• Friendship – Instant community. Many of us have made lifelong friends here.

• More Than Wheeling – Parties, social events, parades, charity work, and shows.

• Jeep knowledge- not sure what to do next with your Jeep? Not sure which part to buy?  You’ll find lots of help here.

• You get a cool T-Shirt

Even if you’re “not a joiner,” you might be surprised how much you enjoy the friendships. 

Yes! You’ll see couples and families on the trails with us.

Yes, as long as your dog is under control and you clean up after them when appropriate.

Yes, but they’re not on a set schedule. They usually happen by word of mouth when someone needs help. Just let us know!

We’re an organized, incorporated 501(c) club, so there are a few steps:

1. Fill out an application.

2. Our board reviews it and lets you know if you’re a good fit.

3. If approved, you’ll:

   • Read and sign our Bylaws.

   • Complete the Tread Lightly! course (20 minutes online).

   • Pay your dues.

4. As a prospective member, you’ll attend one meeting and two events before becoming a full member.

5. To wheel, you’ll need:

   • A Massachusetts OHV permit.

   • Our 101 course on safety, etiquette and techniques (we’ll set this up with you).

It sounds like a lot, but every member does it so we’re all on the same page—legal, safe, and respectful.

Just a few things:

You’ll need to complete the Tread Lightly! course which can be done online and there is a link on our website.

Some basic equipment: A basic first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a tow strap.

We’ll inspect your Jeep to make sure it’s safe and has fixed recovery points (front and rear), a spare tire, and a jack.

We’ll teach you the rest.

No problem! Many of us started stock. Some of us still are. Some properties are better suited for stock rigs, and some aren’t possible—but we will let you know what rides are best for you.

Only members can buy and display our official club sticker.

Our emblem represents our club and its values. If you leave the club, we ask that you remove any club graphics from your vehicle.

We support a variety of causes, including:

• Preserving off-road access.

• Veterans’ organizations.

• Families dealing with childhood illness.

• Animal shelters.

Check out our charities and events page for more details

Not necessarily.

We have two Facebook pages:

• Public Page – East Coast Offroad Jeepers of Connecticut (general Jeep talk and public events).

• Private Page – For official members who have completed all requirements and remain in good standing.

If you haven’t done the requirements listed in the question above, and been voted in at a business meeting, then you're not a member yet, so make sure you ask for an application and get the process started today.

Most members live in Connecticut. Meetings are held at various locations along the state’s center, north to south.

Yes! Members can bring their Jeep or just ride along. We usually have open seats, and we recommend new folks do both—ride with someone experienced and also try it yourself. It’s a great way to learn and build confidence.

We’re more than just a Jeep club—we’re a community. If you love adventure, want to learn, and value doing things the right way, ECOJOCS is the place for you. We’d love to have you join us on the trails and become part of the family.

Ready to start your journey? Request an application by emailing info@ecojocs.org or inquire on the website and let’s hit the trails together!