How To Camp With Horses

Knowing how to camp with horses is an adventure that any horse-lover lives for; there is perhaps nothing more iconic to the heart and spirit of the American west than spending a weekend away from the bustle of everyday life, enjoying nature and the nostalgia of simpler times in the company of an equine friend. Planning your escape is the first step towards realizing it, and camping with horses requires a few specialized considerations.

 To camp with horses, you will need:

• Water
• Orange hunting cap/vest
• Extra halter
• Cell phone

1. Make sure that the campground or recreation area you plan to camp in allows horses. Some national parks, for instance, only allow horses in designated sections of the park, and more than a handful don’t allow them at all. Don’t be discouraged if you find that your first choice campground does not admit horses, though; there are plenty of parks and recreation areas specifically for equine campers.
2. Pack more food and water (for both yourself and your horse) than you think you will need, in case of emergency, and always bring water with you on trails.
3. Bring a bright orange vest or hat (the type that hunters wear) if you will be camping with horses in any remote areas or during hunting seasons. The last thing you want on your camping trip is for a hunter to confuse your mount with a deer or elk while you hit the trails.
4. Tell a family member or friend where you will be and how long you will be gone, and check in regularly via cell phone.
5. Bring an extra halter in case of accidental damage.
6. Clean up after yourself and your horse when you leave the campground. Follow park regulations regarding manure haul-away so that parks continue to allow you to camp with horses across the US.

Resource:
U.S. Trail Ride