How to Camp With Your Horse

Camping with your favorite four-legged pal can be the best way to see the outdoors, but there are some things you have to know before you go.

Things You'll Need

  • Feed/water Buckets
  • Hoof Picks
  • Blankets
  • Bow Rakes
  • Grain/oats
  • Breast Collars
  • Fly Mask With Ear Protectors
  • Fly Repellent
  • Halter
  • Horse Comb/brush Set
  • Lead Ropes
  • Saddle Bags
  • Saddle Pads
  • Saddles
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Instructions

    • 1

      Call ahead and visit the camping site you want to stay at to make sure horses are allowed. Make reservations if necessary.

    • 2

      Prepare your horse. Camping horses should be experienced in packing and walking on trails; familiar with restraints; familiar with loading and hauling; accustomed to standing tied; used to crossing downed obstacles and boggy areas; used to the crinkling noises of maps and plastic rain gear; not afraid of hikers with packs or other animals; shod; wormed and vaccinated.

    • 3

      Check to see if certified seed-free feed is required for the area. This type of hay prevents the spread of non-native plants. Get your horse used to the hay before you leave.

    • 4

      Bring the following: saddle pad, bags, saddle, combs, brushes, hoof pick, blanket, halter, lead rope, feed and water buckets, breast strap, hobbles or a high picket line, grain or oats, hay, fly repellent, fly mask, equine first aid kit and a rake, along with all your camping gear.

    • 5

      Find out if a Coggins test and health papers are required for the area.

    • 6

      Ask if there is drinking water available for horses, if streams are potable, if horses can forage, if special permits are required and if a corral can be set up.

    • 7

      Tie your horse with a high line attached between two trees. Use a "tree safe" strap (one that doesn't cut or dig into bark) around the tree to protect it.

    • 8

      Remember to spread out manure to aid in decomposition and reduce flies.