Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or gearing up for your very first overnight ride, horse camping is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the backcountry. There’s something truly special about exploring trails on horseback and then settling in together with your horse under the open sky.

This guide walks you through everything you’ll want to know—from planning your first equestrian campout to making sure your horse stays safe, comfortable, and happy throughout the adventure.

Horse camping—also known as equestrian camping or trail riding camping—is the practice of bringing your horse along for multi-day backcountry adventures or stays at designated campgrounds.

Instead of trailering home after a day ride, you set up camp, care for your horse on-site, and wake up ready to head back out on the trail the next morning.

It’s a lifestyle that beautifully blends horsemanship, outdoor skills, and wilderness exploration into one incredibly rewarding experience. And it’s definitely gaining momentum—more trail systems, equestrian friendly campgrounds, and events are popping up across the country each year, making it easier than ever to get out and experience it for yourself.

Before diving into logistics, it’s worth considering why so many riders make horse camping a cornerstone of their season.

✶ Deeper bond and connection with your horse. 

Spending extended time together—feeding, grooming, and simply being side by side—naturally builds trust. That connection carries over into your riding in really meaningful ways.

✶ Access to remote terrain. 

Horses can take you places where vehicles and even ATVs can’t go. Multi-day pack trips open the door to quiet, untouched places that would take far longer to reach on foot.

✶ A slower, more connected pace. 

Horse camping encourages you to slow down, pay attention, and stay attuned to your horse’s needs and the rhythm of the land around you.

✶ A strong sense of community. 

The equestrian camping world is known for being welcoming and supportive, with experienced riders often happy to share tips, stories, and hard earned knowledge.

Most horse camping challenges actually come down to planning—not experience. The riders who have the smoothest, most enjoyable trips aren’t always the most seasoned—they’re simply the most prepared.

Choose the Right Location

Not every campground or trail system is set up for horses, so it’s worth doing a little homework up front. Good places to start include:

• National Forest equestrian campgrounds: Many national forests offer dedicated horse camps with corrals or high lines, trailer parking, water access, and basic facilities.

• State parks with equestrian amenities: Check your state parks department for listings labeled “equestrian” or “horse friendly.”

• BLM land (Bureau of Land Management): Much of this open land allows overnight horse camping with the proper permits, offering a more rustic, wide open experience.

• Private equestrian campgrounds: These often come with upgraded amenities like pipe corrals, wash racks, and even on-site hay.

Some Popular equestrian camping spots include Shawnee National Forest in Illinois, Bandit Springs in Oregon, Land Between the Lakes in Kentucky, and the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Research Trail Conditions and Rules

Before you head out, it’s smart to double check some details so there are no surprises:

• Trail closures or seasonal restrictions
• Whether horses are allowed on all trails (some wilderness areas limit stock use to designated routes)
• Feed and forage requirements (many areas require certified weed free hay)
• Water availability along your route
• Fire restrictions, especially during dry or high risk seasons

Map Your Route

It’s always smart to plan conservatively, even on trips when you’re more experienced. 

A general guideline for a loaded trail horse is around 15 to 20 miles per day on moderate terrain, though this can vary quite a bit depending on fitness level, elevation gain, footing, and overall conditions. Building in extra time for breaks, adjustments, and the unexpected keeps the ride safer and far more enjoyable.

PRO TIP: Make sure to download offline maps ahead of time, since cell service is often unreliable in remote riding areas

Download offline maps ahead of time using apps like Gaia GPS or OnX, since cell service is often unreliable in remote riding areas

Every experienced horse camper has a story about the one thing they forgot on their first trip. The goal is to learn from those moments ahead of time—so here’s a complete, well-rounded gear checklist to help make sure nothing important gets left behind:

For Your Horse

Containment Options:

• High lines: A rope strung between two sturdy trees with a picket line for tying horses. They’re simple, lightweight, and widely used. Remember to always use tree savers to protect bark.
• Portable corrals: Electric fencing systems or panel corrals give horses more room to move and relax. They’re a bit heavier to pack but great for horses that don’t settle well tied.
• Hobbles: Can be useful for short, supervised breaks or controlled grazing—but only appropriate for hobble trained horses in safe, open terrain.

Feed and Water:

• Bring certified weed free hay or hay pellets—especially since many wilderness areas require it by law to prevent the spread of invasive species
• Collapsible rubber feed tubs and water buckets are great space savers.
• Electrolytes can help support hydration, especially in warm weather or high activity
• Grain or senior feed may be useful for maintaining condition on longer trips

Tack and Equipment:

• Pack saddle or panniers if you’re carrying gear on a second horse or mule
• Saddle bags for day rides from base camp
• Hoof boots as a backup in case of a lost shoe
• Fly spray and a fly mask (camp bugs can be relentless)
• A halter with a longer lead rope for camp use
• Grooming kit, hoof pick, and sweat scraper

First Aid for Horses:

• Wound care supplies (such as betadine or antiseptic spray)
• Vet wrap and gauze
• Thermometer
• Bute (phenylbutazone) only if approved by your veterinarian
• Your vet’s emergency contact number

For You

Horse camping uses much of the same gear as backpacking, with a few thoughtful adjustments:

• Sleeping setup: A lightweight tent or hammock—many riders prefer hammocks to stay off high traffic ground near horses
• Cooking: Compact camp stove, lightweight cookware, and bear-proof storage where required
• Clothing: Layers are key for changing temperatures—riding friendly clothing that works both in the saddle and around camp is ideal
• Navigation: Compass, paper maps, and a GPS device or offline map app
• Water: A filtration system or purification tablets for your own drinking water—plus awareness of water sources for your horse
• Lighting: A reliable headlamp with extra batteries—early mornings come fast when you’re caring for horses

One of the best parts of the day is rolling into camp, untacking your horse, and watching them finally relax as the trail dust settles. A smooth arrival really comes down to having a consistent, well thought out setup routine.

Arrive with Time to Spare

Whenever possible, set up camp in daylight. Sorting out horses, finding water, and rigging containment after dark adds unnecessary stress for both you and your horse.

Choosing Your Campsite

• Look for flat, well-drained ground with two strong trees at least about 15 feet apart if you’re setting up a high line
• Keep horses well away from the campfire area
• Set up horse containment downwind of your sleeping area when possible
• Stay at least 200 feet from water sources to help protect them from contamination

Setting Up a High Line

1. Choose two healthy trees with trunks at least 8 inches in diameter
2. Wrap tree saver straps around each tree at about chest height
3. Run a rope between them and pull it snug and secure
4. Attach lead ropes using swivel snaps or blocker tie rings, spaced comfortably apart
5. Adjust lead rope length so horses can lower their heads to a relaxed position but can’t get tangled or reach each other

If possible, introduce your horse to a high line at home first. A horse that has never been picketed before can panic, and that’s not something you want to troubleshoot out in the backcountry.

Evening Routine

• Offer hay before and after your ride to help settle them
• Check hooves for rocks, mud, and debris
• Keep an eye out for anything unusual like signs of colic or lameness
• Make sure your horse has access to fresh water before settling in for the night
• Do one final check before bed to confirm all horses are calm, secure, and comfortable for the night

Horses on the trail require a little extra awareness—not just for safety, but also to keep things positive and respectful with everyone sharing the space.

Yielding Right of Way

• While horses are often given the right of way on multi-use trails, not everyone knows that
• Stay patient, communicate clearly with hikers and cyclists, and never assume others will automatically step aside

Communicating With Other Trail Users

• When passing hikers, it helps to ask them to stand quietly on the downhill side of the trail
• Remember to speak calmly and confidently so your horse hears a steady, reassuring voice

Leave No Trace

• Practice solid Leave No Trace habits: scatter manure away from trails and water sources, pack out what you bring in, and always use certified weed-free feed
• Don’t forget to be mindful of vegetation, especially around campsites and high use areas

Respecting Other Campers

• Keep horses as quiet and settled as possible in camp
• Avoid tying or working your horses right next to other campers’ tents
• Be willing to adjust your setup if your horse is disrupting nearby neighbors

Trail Communication

• If you’re riding in a group, give a heads-up before stopping or changing pace suddenly
• Be mindful of where you are—and keep enough space between horses to prevent one spook from triggering a chain reaction

This is one of the most overlooked parts of horse camping preparation. A horse that handles a relaxed 10 mile day ride with ease may struggle when asked to repeat that effort for several days in a row.

Build Conditioning Early

Start preparing at least 8 to 12 weeks before your trip. Gradually increase ride length and frequency, and mix in varied terrain—hills, creek crossings, gravel roads, and uneven footing that reflects what you’ll actually encounter on the trail.

Don’t Forget the Feet

Hoof conditioning is just as important. Regular trimming and proper shoeing with your farrier (or a gradual transition to hoof boots, if you use them) helps ensure your horse is ready for rocky, demanding terrain.

Mental Preparation Matters Too

Expose your horse ahead of time to the kinds of things they may encounter on the trail—tarps, water crossings, wildlife, and unexpected sounds. A confident, steady horse makes for a much safer and more enjoyable trip, especially in narrow or remote areas.

Schedule a Pre-Trip Health Check

Before you head out, book a vet visit to confirm your horse is in good condition for the workload. Make sure vaccinations are current, Coggins testing is up to date (which is required for interstate travel in most cases), and your horse is physically ready for the demands of the trip ahead.

• Overpacking: Every pound your horse carries matters more than most riders realize. Pack with intention and prioritize what’s truly necessary. As a general guideline, a well-conditioned horse should carry no more than about 20% of its body weight, including the rider, tack, and gear.

• Underestimating water needs: Horses typically drink 10 to 15 gallons of water per day—and even more in hot weather or after hard work. Always know where your water sources are in advance, and plan for situations where you may need to filter, carry, or haul extra water.

• Skipping the shakedown trip: It’s always worth doing at least one overnight trip close to home before heading deep into the backcountry. It gives you a chance to fine-tune your gear, observe how your horse settles, and adjust your routine in a low pressure setting where help is nearby if needed.

• Ignoring signs of fatigue or distress: Horses can’t tell you when they’re overworked, so learning to read subtle cues is absolutely essential—things like a dropped head, shorter or uneven stride, reluctance to move forward, excessive sweating, or changes in manure can all be early warning signs.

• Not having a contingency plan: Always know your exit options before you leave: the nearest vet, the quickest route back to your trailer, and a clear plan for what you’ll do if a horse becomes lame or weather conditions turn unsafe.

Group horse camping multiplies the fun—but it also adds a bit of coordination. A few simple practices can make everything run more smoothly:

• Designate a “trail boss” for each day.
  Have one person who knows the route, keeps an eye on conditions, and sets a steady, comfortable pace for the group.
• Match horses by temperament when possible.
  Pairing a more sensitive or spooky horse with a calm, steady partner can help keep everyone more relaxed on the trail.
• Stagger departures from camp.
  Leaving in small intervals helps avoid congestion at trailheads and keeps horses from getting overly amped up all at once.
• Align on expectations ahead of time.
  Agree on basics like meal timing, camp chores, daily mileage, and break schedules before the trip starts so everyone is on the same page.
• Review emergency procedures together.
  Make sure every rider knows what to do, how to communicate, and what the plan is if something unexpected comes up on the trail.

Introducing children to horse camping can be an incredible way to build confidence, responsibility, and a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. A few thoughtful considerations can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for everyone:

• Start with organized equestrian camps or ranch stays before transitioning into independent backcountry trips. It helps kids (and adults) ease into the rhythm in a supported environment.

• Choose your most steady, experienced, and patient horses for young riders—true “been there done that” types make all the difference.

• Keep early day rides short and relaxed, typically around 8 to 10 miles or less, depending on terrain and conditions.

• Assign age appropriate camp responsibilities, like filling water buckets, grooming horses, or helping organize tack.

• Leave plenty of unstructured time in the schedule so kids can explore, play, and simply enjoy being at camp without rushing from task to task.

Ready to start planning your next trip? These trusted resources are a great place to begin:

• TrailMeister.com — A comprehensive database of equestrian trails and horse friendly campgrounds across the U.S.

• American Horse Council — Offers advocacy, education, and resources focused on equestrian access and trail use.

• Back Country Horsemen of America (BCHA) — A volunteer driven organization that helps maintain trail access for stock users and also hosts useful workshops on horse camping and backcountry skills

• Recreation.gov — The go-to site for reserving federal campgrounds, including many equestrian specific sites

• Your state’s Department of Natural Resources — A helpful source for local equestrian trail maps, regulations, and campground directories

There’s really nothing quite like waking up in the wilderness, stepping out of your tent, and hearing the soft nicker of your horse greeting the morning.

Horse camping has a way of quieting everything else and replacing it with something simple and grounding: you, your horse, and the trail ahead.

It does take preparation, practice, and a willingness to learn as you go. But most riders who commit to it tend to say the same thing—once you’ve experienced it, a single day ride that ends back at home just doesn’t feel like quite enough anymore.

So start planning, choose a campground, take that shakedown trip, and get out there.