Horse Riding and Camping
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.
Horseback Riding
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.
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
Showing: 1 - 10 of 60 results
Angel Creek Picnic Site
Angel Creek Picnic Site is co-located with the Angel Creek Campground, on the grassy foothills of the East Humboldt Mountain Range, just eight miles southwest of Wells, Nev. It sits at an elevation…
Angel Lake Picnic Site
The Angel Lake Picnic Area is located adjacent to Angel Lake, a small, blue jewel nestled in the East Humboldt Range. Angel Lake is the only alpine lake accessible by paved road in the area. This…
Armstrong Pass Trailhead
The Armstrong Pass Trailhead is located off CA-89 on Forest Road 31051 (Horse Meadows Rd.), near South Lake Tahoe, California. The Tahoe Rim Trail can be accessed via the Horse Meadows Trail in this…
Barley Creek Trailhead/Campground
The Barley Creek Campground is co-located with the Barley Creek Trailhead near the Table Mountain Wilderness. Trails just outside of the trailhead/campground lead into the Table Mountain Wilderness…
Berry Creek Dispersed Campground
This disperse campground has picnic tables and campfire rings. At this campground, recreation activities include river/stream fishing, mountain biking, backpack/day hiking, horseback riding,…
Big Canyon Trailhead
Access/entry point to the Mt. Moriah Wilderness.
Bonanza Trailhead
Bonanza Trailhead is located near the small town of Cold Creek, Nevada. This trailhead is for day use only and generally open year round, as weather and conditions allow. Provides direct access to…
Buffalo Creek Trailhead
Undeveloped trailhead at the end of Buffalo Canyon Road (Forest Road 50552). Access/entry point to the Santa Rosa-Paradise Peak Wilderness via the Summit Trail (10054).Â
Camp Draw Trailhead
Camp Draw is a trailhead and horse camp that provides direct access to the Jarbidge Wilderness.Â
Cave Mountain Trailhead
Entry/access point to the High Schells Wilderness outside of Ely, Nevada. Trailhead is undeveloped.