Horse Riding and Camping
Saddle horse and pack stock use, once the traditional travel mode through the backcountry, has become a recreational pastime for many people. The Bitterroot National Forest offers many opportunities for both horse camping and trail riding.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is permitted on most national forests. Often, specific trails will be designated for horseback riding, so check the forest website before you hit the trails.
- Trail etiquette for multiple use trails calls for horses to have the right-of-way. Hikers should yield to horses. Bicyclists should yield to horses and hikers. Horse riders are responsible for the control of their horse at all times.
- Many trails are open to multiple non-motorized uses, meaning the trails are shared by hikers, horse riders, and bicyclists. Information on allowed trail uses is available on trailhead signs and the National Geographic-Trails Illustrated map for the area, or by contacting the nearest Ranger District office.
- Pack it in, pack it out
- Riders are responsible for:
- Ensuring that their horse has been tested for Equine Infectious Anemia.
- Carrying current written proof of a negative Coggins Test result.
- Providing proof of negative Coggins Test upon request.
Other info
- Riding through a forest’s diverse landscapes, from dense woodlands to open meadows, offers a unique and intimate way to connect with nature and experience the wilderness's tranquility and beauty.
- Horseback riding in the National Forest allows you to:
- Access Remote Areas: On horseback, you can reach parts of the forest that might be inaccessible by foot or vehicle, uncovering hidden gems and secluded spots.
- Enjoy a Unique Perspective: Experiencing the forest from the height of a horse adds a new dimension to your adventure, providing a different view of the surrounding nature and wildlife.
- Connect with History: Traveling by horse evokes the traditional means of exploring and appreciating these lands, offering a sense of connection to the past and the timeless beauty of the natural world.
- Bond with Your Horse: A unique bond forms between a rider and their horse when navigating the trails together, enhancing the overall experience of the journey.
- Promote Conservation: Horseback riding in designated areas helps promote sustainable tourism and awareness for conserving these beautiful natural spaces.
- Before you embark on your equestrian adventure, make sure to check the national forest guidelines for horseback riding, including trail access, camping with horses, and leave-no-trace principles. Ensuring your horse is trail-ready and respectful of the natural environment is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride.
Horse Camping
- There are several developed horse campgrounds on the forests. Horses are not permitted in developed areas (campgrounds and picnic areas) unless specifically stated.
- Any food storage orders apply to all types of camping, horse camping or otherwise. Secure food away from wildlife.
- Wherever you chose to camp, use the Leave No Trace camping style for all activities, including sanitation, food preparation, fires, high lines, etc. Be sure to keep campsites clean for everyone.
Search for Horse Riding and Camping Opportunities
Bass Creek Trailhead
Bass Creek Trailhead has adequate parking for both cars and trailers. It offers access to Bass Creek Trail #4 and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. Facilities include hitching rails and a stock ramp.
Bear Creek Pass Horse Camp Trailhead
The Bear Creek Pass Trailhead has numerous trails to access that all lead into the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. The most heavily used is the #613 trail which leads to the bear lakes and accesses…
Bear Creek Trailhead
Bear Creek Trailhead has adequate parking for both cars and trailers. It offers access to Bear Creek Trail #5 and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. Facilities include a vault toilet, hitching rails…
Big Creek Trailhead & Picnic Area
Big Creek Trailhead has adequate parking for both cars and trailers. It offers access to Big Creek Trail #11 and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. Facilities include a picnic table, vault toilet,…
Blodgett Overlook Trailhead
Blodgett Overlook Trailhead offers adequate parking for both single vehicles and trailers. It offers access to Blodgett Trail #19. Facilities include, hitching rails and a vault toilet.
Blodgett Trailhead
Blodgett Trailhead is located adjacent to the Blodgett Campground. It has adequate parking for both cars and trailers. It offers access to Blodgett Trail #19 to Blodgett Lake, Blodgett Pass and Trail…
Boulder Creek Horse Camp
Boulder Creek Horse Camp is located adjacent to Sam Billings Campground. The campground has 4 campsites which include fire rings, picnic tables, gravel tent sites and trailer parking. An…
Boulder Creek Trailhead
Boulder Creek Trailhead has adequate parking for both cars and trailers. Facilities include a hitching rail. Camping is available nearby at Sam Billings Campground.
Burnt Fork Trailhead
Burnt Fork Trailhead has adequate parking for both cars and trailers. It offers access to Burnt Fork Creek Trail #321. No facilities
Cayuse Creek Trailhead
Cayuse Creek Trailhead consists of a small parking area. Facilities include a small wooden outhouse and hitching rails.