Horse Riding and Camping

Riding through the Forest’s diverse landscape on horseback offers a unique and intimate way to connect with nature and experience tranquility and beauty. 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. Information on allowed trail uses is available on trailhead signs or by contacting the nearest Ranger District office.

Many trails are open to multiple non-motorized uses, meaning the trails are shared by hikers, horse riders, and bicyclists. 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.

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

Experience the forest from the height of a horse to add a new dimension to your adventure, providing a different view of the surrounding nature and wildlife.

Horse Camping

The Forest contains abundant and varied natural resources and provides countless opportunities for your enjoyment as an equestrian. Reservations for camping at developed campgrounds are recommended for dates between Memorial Day and Labor Day at: www.Recreation.gov.

While camping with your horse, remember:

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.