How to Make a Wood Horse Corral

A wood horse corral can be a useful and attractive addition to a stable or barn yard. The fence can be painted to match existing buildings or left natural if treated lumber is used. A wood horse corral can be safe and durable if properly constructed. The project requires basic carpentry skills and standard power and hand tools.

Things You'll Need

  • 4 x 4 inch 8 foot long posts
  • 6 x 6 inch 8 foot long gate posts
  • 2 x 6 or 2 x 8 inch boards
  • 3 inch galvinized deck screws
  • Premixed bagged concrete
  • Tape measure
  • Power saw
  • Chain saw
  • Power drill
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Instructions

    • 1

      Mark out the corral location starting with stakes at the corners. Run a string from the corner stakes to mark the perimeter of the corral. Now is the time to confirm whether the location and size will work, because it is much easier to move stakes and strings than posts and boards. Add a stake or flag at the location of each post, usually spaced every 8 or 10 feet. Determine where your gate will be.

    • 2

      Dig post holes at the staked locations. Use a power or hand auger to excavate holes at least 3-feet deep. Set an 8-foot long fence post in each hole using a cement mix. Use posts that are at least 4 inches square for line posts and 6 inches square for gate posts. Mix the cement mix according to manufacturer’s instructions and allow it to dry. Add dirt on top of the concrete and tamp it into place. Cut the posts with a chain saw to a uniform height.

    • 3

      Screw the fence boards, either 2 x 6 or 2 x 8 inch lumber, to the posts. Boards are usually attached to the posts on what will be the inside of the corral. Use 3-inch galvanized deck screws to fasten the boards to the posts. Place the lowest board about 12 to 16 inches above the ground. Equally space an additional three or four boards between the lowest board and the top of the posts.

    • 4

      Add the gate to the corral. Construct the gate from the same lumber as used for the horizontal boards of the corral. Place upright boards on each end of the gate and a diagonal brace. Attach the gate to the post using heavy strap hinges and bolts.