Outdoor Blog

Best Campgrounds with Horseback Riding

Published

4 years ago

February 18, 2020

Camping with horses can open up new worlds of possibilities. Where on an average camping and hiking trip, you’re limited by how far your legs can take you, with equestrian camping your journeys will be comparatively limitless. Taking a horse on a camping trip allows you to hike further, and stay longer, all while getting a great workout. It’s also a fantastic way to feel even more grounded and connected to nature, as you admire the vista from your higher horseback position. There’s lots of preparation you need to do, though, for going camping with your horse. But, as we’ll see, some of the best campgrounds with horseback riding make the whole process easy for you.

Before heading off on a camping trip with a horse, there are a few things you need to think about. The first is how experienced you are at camping. If you’re constantly out in the great outdoors, have excellent survival skills, and feel confident on long hikes, this will be an advantage. But no matter how experienced you are at hiking, camping with a horse will add another dimension. If you’re looking to plan your own horse camping trip, then there are some resources out there that could help you prepare yourself. For example, you could attend an expo or seminar that offers horse-camping clinics or demonstrations.

By doing your research, and preparing yourself mentally for your trip, you’ll have more of an idea about how you can prepare, and what you should bring on your trip. There’s a big difference for how you might need to prepare for a trip in your RV, and entering a wilderness area with your horse, with everything you need for orientation and survival on your back! If you’ve not been camping with your horse before, it’s best to try a guided horse-camping trip to learn the ropes from someone who knows what they’re talking about.

While considering this new style of camping, we must start with thinking of ourselves and own experience and knowledge level. However, we also need to think about the horse. What’s the temperament of the horse like? Do they have any experience of cross country riding, or going along hiking and riding trails? Do they have any experience of going camping? Are they relaxed and not too flighty, or do they have the right temperament to be able to stay at a campsite? Some horses adapt to camping easily and don’t react at all. Some become really jittery and difficult to manage. It’s worth taking your horse out many times to build up their trail ride experience and get them used to adapt to a new environment.

But sometimes finding the right campground for you and your horse, or to go horse riding in, is more difficult.

1. Kentucky Horse Park, KY

The Kentucky Horse Park is a mecca for equestrian camping enthusiasts. This place isn’t just a horse-friendly campsite, oh no. It’s a fully blown equine theme park and competition facility celebrating mankind’s relationship with the horse. Set on more than 1,200 acres in the heart of Kentucky’s famous Bluegrass region, this horse park offers daily programs and presentations, including things like a riding summer school.

It also has one of the most comprehensive schedules of equestrian events in the country, with competitions and shows regularly coming here. Kentucky Horse Park has a comprehensive and detailed website, that will help you ascertain which activities, shows and presentations you could travel to visit.

This is no regular campsite. In fact, camping really is secondary here, giving you somewhere to stay to enjoy all the center has to offer. The Kentucky Horse Park is an agency of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet, and contains the National Horse Center which houses more than 30 national and regional equine organizations. This is a professional operation that puts horses, and education on horses, first.

There’s so much going on at this center, it should be the main drag for your trip. They have horse shows, polo, art and crafts fairs, and dog shows. You can see 24 of the park’s nearly 50 breeds of horses in the Breeds Barn if you watch the twice-daily Parade of Breeds between April and October. You can also go to see some stunning beasts, the champion horses in the park’s Hall of Champions.

The Kentucky Horse Park isn’t just the ideal location for appreciating, viewing and riding horses, it’s also an excellent place to become fully informed about horses. So we would recommend this as a great option for those of you who are just starting out on your equestrian camping journey. Admission to the horse park also includes the International Museum of the Horse, a Smithsonian Affiliate, and the American Saddlebred Museum. These are some of the biggest and most well-respected museums in the world on horses, so what better camping area to start your equestrian camping journey.

Pros:

260 campsites
Entrance to multiple world-renowned museums on horses
Full schedule of shows, activities, fairs, and classes
Electrical and water hookups
Fire rings and picnic tables
Tennis and basketball courts
Swimming pool

Cons:

Quite expensive
Very popular, book early
Not the most scenic surroundings, better options for hikers

2. Hill Country State Natural Area

Our last recommendation was perfect for newcomers to equestrian camping, to learn all they need to know about horses, and camping with horses. However, if you’re a little more experienced, and are looking for a bit more of a rugged adventure, why not consider Hill Country State Natural Area?

This option really is about location, location, location. Situated in Texas Hill Country, a 40-mile equestrian trail system leads from the campgrounds here around the surrounding Hill Country. So, what can you expect? If you go camping here with your horse, you’ll be surrounded by the most breathtaking scenery. Here you can adventure among rugged deep canyons and scenic plateaus on the site of a former ranch.

On this campground, you’ll find six primitive equestrian campsites with two overnight horse pens. Or if you’re planning a trip for a large group or club, they also have the option of the horse camp called Chapas Camp which can accommodate 40 people and 20 trailers and has a barn for the horses. These camping options are evidently a lot smaller, and more primitive, taking you back to nature. Come to Hill Country State Natural Area to soak in the incredible natural landscape, adventure with primitive camping, and really to feel like you’re getting back to nature. But if you’re still learning, and want some expert advice, they also offer guide services to help your group explore this primitive area.

Pros:

Be surrounded by the canyons and plateaus of Hill Country
Primitive camping sites to get back to nature
40-mile equestrian trail system
Horse stalls
Bird watching

Cons:

Not as many amenities as some of the other options, primitive camping
Non-potable water is provided for horses only.

3. Mueller State Park

Mueller State Park is a lush, forested Colorado state park encompassing 5,112 acres of land outside Divide, Colorado, just west of Colorado Springs, Colorado. This is another fantastic option for those who have a bit more experience going blaming with their horse, and are more interested in finding ample trails and beautiful scenery to ride in. Mueller’s many acres of thick aspen and conifer forests are home to an amazing variety of wildlife including black bear, elk, deer, fox, coyotes, and bobcats. There are also hawk and many other bird species which make bird watching here a dream.

With over 40 miles of beautiful, well-maintained trials, there’s ample space in this stunning State Park for you to explore on your horse. And that’s not just where the fun ends. If you are looking for other activities on top of trailing with your horse, this campground has you covered. In the Mueller State Park, you can also head off on some beautiful hikes by foot, go mountain biking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing. If you haven’t been camping many times with your horse, it’s a great idea to give them a break for a day or two, while you explore the natural habitat in a different way.

Pros:

5,112 acres
Over 40 miles of trails
Amazing wildlife viewing opportunities
Other activities nearby such as cross country skiing and snowshoeing

Cons:

Limited winter horse campsites, first come first served
Reservation fees do not include parks pass entrance fees

Some larger equestrian campgrounds have stables for different breeds of horses and daily shows.

4. Brown County State Park

This is the largest equestrian camping destination we have reviewed. Nicknamed the “Little Smokies” because of the area’s resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains, Brown County encompasses nearly 16,000 acres of stunning rugged hills, ridges, and fog-shrouded ravines. This enigmatic and dramatic landscape was created by the meltwaters from glaciers of the most recent ice age. Head here to be surrounded by mile and miles of geological wonders, and maybe to learn more about this unique landscape yourself.

With over 70 miles of horse trails, this spot is an almost inexhaustible source of adventures to be had with your horse. It’s a great location for those of you who are more experienced equestrian campers, and are looking for a bit more of a challenge, or to locate and navigate your own routes. If you have limited experience in this area, never fear. They have guided horse rides here, so you can learn from people who know these forests like the back of their hand. The large campgrounds in Brown County State Park have a saddle barn for guided horse rides and a separate horseman campground.

If you want to combine your equestrian camping trip with a bit of culture, this could also be a great option for you. All of the surrounding county and nearby Indiana town of Nashville are famous for their lovely cultural experiences. These include: unique shopping, dining, arts and crafts, history, entertainment, and outdoor adventure opportunities. There are historic sites, winery tours, towns, museums and galleries, all within 10 miles of this campground. If you’re looking for a location that satisfies a varied group, Brown County State Park could be right up your alley.

Pros:

16,000 acres of stunning rugged hills, ridges, and fog-shrouded ravines
Over 70 miles of horse trails for horseback riders to explore
Guided horse rides
Geological wonders
Nearby cultural activities like historical landmarks and museums
Interpretive center
Electric hookup sites
118 modern electrical sites with horse tie-ups and 91 primitive sites with horse tie-ups and space for horse trailers

Cons:

No wifi
No sewer no water

5. Farragut State Park

If you’re looking for a more mountainous location to go equestrian camping in, then look no further than Farragut State Park. Here you’ll be nestled among the stunning mountains of northern Idaho, with over 20 miles of trails for you to explore with your horse. This public recreation area used to be a WWII era naval training station.

This 4,000-acre park now provides camping opportunities with 223 individual sites, 7 group camps, and 10 camping cabins. And the activities don’t just stop with horseback riding. Other activities include hiking, mountain biking, cycling, fishing, boating, swimming, water sports, orienteering, disc golf, flying model aircraft, and even archery!

With so many different activities available to you in Farragut State Park, this is an ideal place to head to if you’re going on a longer camping trip, or your going hiking with your family or a large group. There’s so much to do here, everyone’s needs will be satisfied. In the winter, although camping might be a bit more difficult, you can engage in winter sports or activities like cross country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding. For the ultimate thrill, why not check out the tree to tree aerial adventure course, Idaho’s premiere aerial adventure course.

Pros:

Over 20 miles for trail riding
In the beautiful mountains of northern Idaho
Boating, swimming, water sports
Tree to tree aerial adventure course
Cross country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding

Cons:

Better for more experienced equestrian campers, no guided tours
Horseback riding trails not extensive enough for a really long trip

6. Andrews Creek Backcountry Campsite

If you’re looking for more of a hidden gem, rather than a busy equestrian campsite, Andrew’s Creek could be the option for you. Andrews Creek Backcountry Campsite is the only official backcountry site between the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and Sky Pond. The reason why people come here is not for the campsite itself, but the fact it’s the only campsite that offers you access to one of the most famous equestrian camping trails in the country: The Loch Lake Trail via Glacier Gorge Trail. The campground is located along Andrews Creek, approximately .9 miles beyond The Loch.

The Loch Lake Trail via Glacier Gorge Trail will weave you along the Rocky Mountains and offer stunning views of lakes, canyons and glaciers. The trail is only 5.4 miles long, so coming to this location might suit you as a weekend trip with your horse. Because of the breathtaking surroundings, this trail can be quite heavily trafficked, so make sure you leave early to miss the crowds.

And take note, too, that this campsite is quite exclusive! There is only one designated site and one privy at the Andrews Creek Campsite, where a maximum of two 4-person tents are allowed. But if you want to sleep in, and fully immerse yourself amongst these astounding geological wonders, then you’ll have to settle with limited primitive camping.

Pros:

Proximity to The Loch Lake Trail via Glacier Gorge Trail
Location in the Rocky Mountains

Cons:

Limited, primitive camping
Trail is highly trafficked

Some trails, like the Loch Lake Trail via Glacier Gorge Trail even allow you to ride donkeys.

Final Verdict:

When it comes to equestrian campgrounds, your experience of camping with horses, and your particular interests factor into which campground will be right for you. If you’re just starting to go camping with your horse, and you’re looking for more advice, information and even guided tours and tutoring, then your best choice would be a campground with extensive expertise behind it, like Kentucky Horse Park, KY. Here is a great starting point for your equestrian camping journey, or a great place to top up your skills and knowledge.

But if you’re a bit more experienced at equestrian camping, then you might be prioritizing location over support. In this case, an incredible location, with many miles of horse trails, like Farragut State Park, would suit your needs. Or if you’re looking for a dramatic, mountainous weekend escape, and you don’t mind sacrificing some home comforts, Andrews Creek Backcountry Campsite is the more adventurous choice. The best campgrounds with horseback riding are the ones that give you the thrill of exploring the great outdoors, but match your experience level too.

Bonus tip: For some tips on what to pack to go camping with your horse, watch this useful video!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter