Horse Riding and Camping

Horse Riding is allowed on:

Open forest roads.
On many forest roads that are gated to prevent motor vehicle travel.
On more than 1,290 miles of trails on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.

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 areaor by contacting the nearest Ranger District office.

Trail Etiquette:

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.

There are several developed horse campgrounds on the forests. Horses are not permitted in developed areas (campgrounds and picnic areas) unless specifically stated.

Horseback Riding

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.

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.