PLAN YOUR NEXT HORSE CAMPING TRIP Use these tips to ensure a fun and enjoyable camping experience with your horse. B Y TA N IA M I L L E N
Canada is filled with drool-worthy horse camps and trails, so get out and enjoy them. You might just have the trip of a lifetime!
Most riders who camp with their horse follow a basic system. They trailer to a designated campsite, set up camp, and then ride from the same campsite every day. This type of ‘rig riding’ is easy and lends itself to “glamping.” Other riders travel backcountry trails with one or more horses and camp along the way. Every trip, however, requires planning. You have to decide where to go, who to go with, what horse to take, how you and your horse will eat and sleep, and how to stay safe. Here’s how to plan your next trip.
Decide Where to Go
One of the most exciting aspects of horse camping is deciding where to go. First, make a list of your needs and wants. Do you need overnight pens or is your horse okay on a highline? Do 12
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you need potable water? Water for your horse? Power? Outhouses? Consider how far you want to drive, the type of scenery you like, your horse’s skills and fitness, campsite access, cost, the prevalence of bugs and bears, and the amount and difficulty of trails. You can find ideas and information on the Alberta Equestrian Federation website, social media, and in magazine articles. Once you’ve got a list of potential places to go, narrow your choices. It may be helpful to find someone who has ridden in the site you’ve chosen and then ask about their experiences.
Find Trip Partners
For some people, horse camping is a way to spend time with riding partners, and for others it’s a great solo adventure. If you are going with friends, choose
reliable partners who you enjoy spending time with. Compare your expectations for the type of trip you want to do, on how far you plan to ride each day, and what expectations you have for safety. Are your horses compatible? If you’re new to horse camping, try to go with an experienced camper for your first trip. Solo trips are fine, too! Consider more popular areas if you go on a trip by yourself; you might meet new riding partners.
Get Your Horse Ready
Knowing the skills your horse has and the condition he’s in will help you determine where to go and how much fun you’ll have. First, ensure that your horse is sound, vaccinated, dewormed, and his teeth are in good shape. Assess your horse’s feet and determine whether
