With spring already here and summer coming soon, the notion of a horse camping trip may have crossed your mind. Horse camping is becoming more popular and is definitely an exciting form of camping trip. For maximum enjoyment, select some good company and prepare well for your camping experience.
Responsibilities and joys of horse camping
Being prepared is key to the enjoyment of camping with your horse.
Along with being close to nature, you will have a good time traversing horse trails and exploring the environment. Being out in the fresh air, along with getting plenty of exercise for several days will most likely benefit both you and your horse. In addition, a few days of relaxation away from your usual work and activities can be invigorating and give you time to reflect on the importance of maintaining a healthy balance for both you and your horse.
Tip #1: Learn the details.
Know the area where you are going camping. Do your research so you know the rules and restrictions enforced in the area where you choose to ride and camp. Find out what facilities and conveniences are available for you and your horse. Learn as much about the available trails and riding areas as possible and what the weather conditions are where you plan on camping. What will be your source for water for both you and your horse? Once you know the details about where you will be camping, you can begin your preparations.
Tip #2: Decide how you will corral your horse.
A horse camping trip won't be fun if you have to chase a run-away horse. With your horse as the main star of this particular camping event, it is a must that you are able to contain it properly.
Here are some helpful containment options and tips to make sure your horse stays put: Usage of a portable corral, portable electric corral, picket lines, hobbles, or highline.
To determine which of these to use, you first have to know where you are camping.If you are camping at a trail head where there will be other campers, horses and vehicles, it's a good idea to opt for portable corral with panels that you can attach to your trailer. This will safely keep your horse at bay.Now if you intend to go camping on the trail, you have to know the rules and restrictions enforced by the area you choose to ride and camp in. This way, you'll know what types of containment are allowed. After that, you can choose what will work best for you and your horse.
Tip #3: Practice camping at home with your horse.
You need to learn what will work best for both you and your horse through preparation and experimentation. For example, if you plan on using grazing hobbles, it is recommended to make them get your horse used to hobbles before you actually use them on the trail. Calm your horse with a little feed and try the hobbles on in a small pen or corral. Be sure to tug the hobbles so that the horse realizes that they are there.
After several practice sessions, if you see your horse getting comfortable with them on, it's probably okay to try it on when you go camping. Same goes for other options for containment like picket lines, portable electric corrals and use of a highline. Start using them in a small corral or pasture and allow the horse to get used to them. Home experimentation will let you know in which method of containment your horse seems most comfortable in and you'll have an idea which of these to use during a horse camping trip.
Tip #4: Consider yourself.
Your horse is not only the one who needs to have a safe and comfortable place to stay. You should also invest in high quality camping equipment like a reliable tent, safe camping heaters and a comfortable sleeping bag to ensure that you have an enjoyable horse camping experience.
Tip #5: Make a list and prepare wisely.
As you are preparing for your horse camping trip, develop a priority list of all the items you will need to take with you to make your camping effort safe and enjoyable. Not only will you need to take the necessary feed for you and your horse, but you will need to choose the necessary tack for your horse, appropriate clothing for yourself, taking into consideration changeable weather conditions, but also you need to consider the safety of both you and your horse along with the possibility of trail riding injuries.
A freshly stocked first aid kit, a flashlight and lantern, insect repellent for you and your horse, necessary cooking equipment, and personal items can make or break the enjoyment and safety of your camping trip.
Make a list, and prior to trailering your horse and loading your camping equipment, make sure to check off each item to make sure it is securely stowed where you can readily find it. Preliminary organization is key to a satisfactory camping experience