Equestrian Use in State Parks
Follow in the hoofprints of early conquistadors, Indians, colonists, and cowboys. State parks offer horseback riders some of the best scenery in Texas.
Whether you're planning for a day or a week on the trail, enjoyment and comfort should be the first priority for both horses and riders.
Unless otherwise stated, the only expenses are park entrance and/or camping fees. Day use is included in the park entrance fee, but camping incurs an additional charge. Horse rentals are available near a few parks as noted below.
IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE TEXAS ANIMAL HEALTH COMMISSION: No person may enter a state park with an equine or equines, or cause the entry of an equine or equines to a state park, unless that person has in their immediate possession, for each equine in the person's custody or equine that the person allowed to enter the state park, a completed VS Form 10-11 (Texas Animal Health Commission) showing that the equine has tested negative to an official Equine Infectious Anemia test within the previous 12 months. The documentation required by this subsection shall be made available for inspection upon the request of any department employee acting within the scope of official duties.
Day Use Only Equestrian Facilities:
Dinosaur Valley S. P.
The South Primitive Area, a 100-acre section of park,
is set aside for equestrian recreation, and horses may be ridden only in this
area of the park. Visitors
must provide their own horses. There are no marked trails. A river runs through
the area, and the terrain is wooded and semi-rocky. A parking area is provided
for horse trailers; no potable water is available. River water is available
for horses, but you must bring your own bucket. Restrooms without showers are
located in the day use park complex.
Fairfield Lake S.P.
Fairfield Lake has approximately 15 miles of day use equestrian
trails.
Fort
Richardson S. P., S.H.S. & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway
Located at Fort Richardson and Jacksboro,
the Lost Creek Reservoir is an approximately 10-mile hike, bike and equestrian
trail that runs adjacent to Fort Richardson
and along Lost Creek, which is the main watershed for the two city lakes. The
trail follows scenic Lost Creek and travels the east side of Lake Jacksboro
and Lost Creek Reservoir. The trail crosses the dam at Lost Creek Reservoir
and winds along the west side until you enter the trail head. There is a trail
head at Fort Richardson State Historical Park and a trail head on Lost Creek
Reservoir.
This trail is 10 feet wide and has an improved surfacing of base material and a topping of approximately 4" of screening materials. This type of surface creates a smooth trail for all types of use.
This is a linear trail system that winds with the terrain and abounds in scenic beauty. It travels through the park with many shaded areas of pecan and oak trees. Most of the trail travels by the creek or lakes which provide numerous opportunities to fish and swim. This is a beautiful trail, abundant also in wildlife and wild flowers.
Guadalupe River S.P.
The park has recently opened a 5.3 miles equestrian trail.
Huntsville S. P.
Note: Public not allowed to bring their own horses - must use
the horses provided by Lake Raven Stables. For information and reservations,
call Lake Raven Stables at 936/295-1985.
Guided Trail Rides - Enjoy the tall pines and the splendor of an old western
tradition with experienced guides. This is an activity for the whole family.
All ages and riding abilities
are welcome. Each tour is about an hour long.
Eat'n Rides:
Breakfast - Nothing is more enjoyable than an early breakfast in
the open air. While the cook is busy preparing the meal, you will enjoy a scenic
ride
that reveals the pristine setting of Huntsville State Park.
Steak Dinner - Get
in the saddle and, after a scenic ride, you will return to a 16-ounce, T-bone
steak prepared to your liking with "all the fixin's." For
lighter eaters, hamburgers are available.
Lake Livingston S. P.
Note: Public not allowed to bring their own horses -
must use the horses provided by Lake Livingston Stables.
Guided Trail Rides - Enjoy a leisurely ride through 2.5 miles of scenic and
wooded terrain, while observing the abundance of plants and wildlife this park
has
to offer.
Eat 'n Rides:
Breakfast - The early morning breakfast ride ends with a hearty
breakfast of scrambled eggs, pan-fried potatoes, sausage, English muffins,
coffee, and
orange juice.
Steak Dinner - The steak dinner follows the evening ride and includes
a16-ounce T-bone steak (especially prepared), beans, potato salad, Texas toast,
cake,
tea, and lemonade. The cooks will prepare whatever you wish, with enough notice.
Hamburger
Dinner - Hamburger dinner replaces steak dinner (late afternoon ride).
Cost
(per person) One-hour Ride - $25; breakfast rides - $30; hamburger rides -
$33; and T-bone steak dinner rides - $40.
Children under six may ride with an
adult for an additional $5 (does not include meal.)
The rides are
scheduled to leave five to six times daily on weekends-year round and three
to four times on most weekdays in March, and from June 1st through August 1st.
Meals are optional and all prices include sales tax. Please call Stables for
schedule,
times may vary during the off season, (936)
967-5032.
Monahans Sandhills S. P.
This park has an 800-acre equestrian area with no
marked trails. A trailer parking area is provided and has a fenced corral where
riders can tie and water
their horses. Potable water is available in the area. The general terrain is
heavy sand, with brush and a few mesquite trees. Visitors must provide their
own horses.
Pedernales Falls S. P.
A rugged trail winds about 10 miles up over the hillsides
and down through the park. Riders should be experienced, as the trail is very
rocky and has
some steep slopes. Horses should have shoes. There is a water trough at the
trailer parking area. In addition to the per person entrance fee, there is
a per horse fee. At this time, there are no rental horses available near the
park. Visitors must provide their own horses.
Overnight and Day Use Equestrian Facilities:
Big Bend Ranch
S.P.
Daily/Hourly horseback rides are offered at the Sauceda Ranch Headquarters
with Park staff
guiding visitors through some of park's
canyon trails. Visitors may also bring in their own stock with appropriate
documentation. Currently, the Oso Loop, Llano Loop, and Contrabando Multi-use
Trail offer
32 miles of horseback trails. Occasional
multi-day horseback trail rides are also available. Camel Treks include camels,
guides, meals and lodging. Longhorn Cattle Drives allow you to experience life
on a working ranch ranch by going out on horseback into the rugged country
of the ranch and driving the longhorns to ranch headquarters. For information
and reservations please call the park office at (432)229-3416 or check
the Big Bend Ranch Calendar of Events. Link
to information on licensed commercial outfitters at Big Bend Ranch.
Brazos Bend S.P.
The
20 primitive equestrian campsites are located at the trailhead of the 14-mile
equestrian/multiple-use trail system. The campground is located under
a grove
of pecan trees and each site has a picnic table. Some sites have a campfire
ring. Electricity, water and restrooms facilities are not provided at the campsite.
Water
for horses is available.
Caprock Canyons S. P.
This park offers both day use and camping areas. Visitors
may bring their own horses. A riding area in excess of 5000 acres of spacious,
spectacular,
backcountry scenery, with approximately 14 miles of riding trails. These trails
can be rugged, with cliffs, drop-offs, and steep climbs and descents. Experienced
riders can find challenging areas along the trails. Caprock Canyons Trailway
is a 64.25-mile, multi-use trail, open to horse riders, mountain bikers, and
hikers. This rail-to-trail conversion features a fairly level surface, with
a 1% grade or less, which stretches from South Plains to near Estelline. The
scenic backcountry offers beautiful vistas, wildlife viewing, nearly unbroken
solitude, and passes through one of the last remaining railroad tunnels in
Texas. There are 7 different parking lots along the multi-use trail, about
10 miles apart from each other.
The equestrian camping area consists of 12 campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and two horse corrals (10' x 20'). Campers have the choice of primitive or developed-style camping. The primitive camp area accommodates up to 20 people and has 2 community corrals. It is located near the Little Red River. This site requires a hike or ride of one mile. Vehicles are not allowed at any of the primitive sites; parking is available at the trailhead; water is not potable; and restrooms are not available in either area.
Rentals - Horses can be rented at Quitaque Riding Stables, adjacent to the Trailway (806/455-1208). They offer guided or unsupervised rentals. Reservations are suggested.
Choke Canyon S. P. (North Shore Unit)
This area, in excess of
1700 acres with 18 miles
of trails, is accessed by
a paved road across the
dam from the South Shore
Unit to North Shore. There
are areas. For overnight
camping, a minimum of eight
persons and two vehicles
is recommended for safety
reasons. The area's terrain
ranges from eroded, gently
rolling brush land to rugged
and rocky areas that provide
habitat for a variety of
wildlife. There is a 6-lane
boat ramp to the 26,000-acre
reservoir. A primitive camping
fee is charged for each
unit of 8. A per-person
entrance fee of is also
charged. Lake water may
be used for horses; bring
potable water. No sanitary
facilities; however, toilets
and drinking water are available
at the South Shore Unit.
No horse rentals or corrals
available. Maximum 45 horses.
The area is closed one month
each fall during hunting
season. Contact park for
reservations and additional
information at 361/786-3868.
Visitors must provide their
own horses.
Cooper
Lake S.P. (South Sulphur Unit)
Riders are rewarded with panoramic views
of the lake, rides through forest shade and many opportunities to view wildlife
while riding the Buggy Whip Equestrian
Trail. This trail covers nearly 600 acres and over 10 miles. The trail is accessible
from all sites in the Buggy Whip camping area. All Camping sites have 10'X
55' concrete pads, back-in spaces with water and electricity, a table, fire-ring,
lantern post and a 20' tether cable for the horses. Parking is available for
day use equestrian visitors. Visitors must provide their own horses.
Copper Breaks S. P.
At this park the equestrian can enjoy a 3.5 mile, round-trip
trail over flat, rough, but rideable terrain. There is a large parking area
and a water tank
for horses. The camping area has 6 camping sites and a 10-foot tying rail.
Water faucets and restrooms are nearby. This area can also be used by a group.
Visitors must provide their own horses.
Davis Mountains S. P.
Seven miles of trails in beautiful Limpia Canyon Primitive Area. Visitors must
provide their own horses. Trail takes riders from 4,900 feet elevation at Limpia
Creek to over 5,700 feet at scenic overlook. Terrain is rugged with excellent
scenic views of the Davis Mountains. The Chinati Mountains, some 50 miles away,
can be viewed toward the southwest. Six primitive equestrian campsites are
available in the Limpia Canyon Primitive Area. A full-service hotel and restaurant
is available at Indian
Lodge.
Hill Country
S. N. A.
This park is located 12 miles southwest of the town of
Bandera on FM 1077, 52 miles northwest of San Antonio. Formerly the Bar-O
Ranch, this 5400-acre
site provides a back country setting. Visitors may bring their own horses.
The park offers 40 miles of designated, multi-use trails open to backpacking,
primitive camping, horseback riding, and mountain bicycling. The terrain
ranges from flat, broad, creek bottoms to steep, rocky canyons up to 2000
feet in
elevation. Spring water is available for horses but visitors should bring
their own drinking water. Hitching posts are provided, and parking is allowed
around
the perimeter of the designated equestrian area. The park does not provide
horses.
Chapa's Camp is a group camp and has a capacity for a large number of people. It is in a 10-acre, shaded area and has a large barn with a concrete floor and electricity. There is water for horses, fire rings, picnic tables, 3 picket lines, approximately 12 horse stalls, and a chemical toilet nearby. Reservations are required.
At the Trailhead Campground there are 6 primitive equestrian sites. These have picnic tables, fire rings, pens, water for horses, 40' pull-through parking for horse trailers, and a chemical toilet in the area. These have access to the 40 mile trail system.
A group lodge is available for equestrian or non-equestrian use and will sleep 12 persons. It has 4 bedrooms, three with full size beds, and a dorm room with 4 twin beds, there is also a sleeper sofa in the lounge. The lodge has, one bathroom, kitchen with a stove and refrigerator, and seating for 12; central heating and air-conditioning; porch; a separate covered barbecue pit, and 5 stalls, 2 pens and corrals for horses. Towels, bed linens and cooking utensils are not furnished. Use of the equestrian arena is included in the lodge rental.
Bar O is a primitive day use facility that is mainly set up for equine activities, although is popular with campers too. Located across from the park headquarters in 6 shaded acres. It has a water trough, a horse wash area, fire rings, and a chemical toilet. The Bar O has limited facilities for securing your horses, both in pens and or hitching. Call the park for availability.
Fires may be built in fire rings only and dead wood can be collected off the ground; however, park officials recommend bringing your own firewood because dead wood is scarce, and the cutting of standing timber is prohibited. Trash has to be packed out for disposal, including all hay and animal byproducts.
Special Notes:
- BE SURE TO BRING DRINKING WATER: POTABLE WATER IS NOT AVAILABLE; ALL WATER
MUST BE TREATED.
- Trails may be subject to closure during wet conditions.
- Hill Country S.N.A.
is a primitive park, back to nature - so we say "IF
YOU THINK YOU NEED IT, WE DON'T GOT IT, YOU'LL NEED TO BRING IT!!"
Rentals: Various adjacent ranches offer horse rentals, tours, and other accommodations through the Natural Area. Please contact the Bandera Convention and Visitors Bureau (1-800-364-3833) or visit their web site at www.banderacowboycapital.com for more information on fees and schedules.
Lake Arrowhead S. P.
This site offers approximately 5 miles of multi-use trails
on approximately 300 acres that are open to hikers as well as riders. The trails
pass over grassy,
flat terrain. Each of the 4 campsites has water, electricity, a picnic table,
a fire ring, a tie rail, and picket line. Parking and restrooms are available
near the group building. Restrooms with showers are located at the central
campgrounds. Visitors must provide their own horses.
Lake
Mineral Wells S. P. & Trailway
This park has a 12-mile, multi-use trail
for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain bicycling. The terrain is rolling
hills and native grasslands, with
moderate to heavy tree cover. The trailhead camping area has 20 paved, pull-through
campsites that include tethering poles, water, picnic tables, and fire rings.
The area is served by a restroom with showers. Each site has a combined occupancy
limit of 8, including horses and people; advance reservations are recommended.
The trailhead camping area is shared by all trail users. If arrival will be
after 10 p.m., call the park headquarters prior to 5 p.m. for late arrival
information. Parking, water, and restrooms are available for day use trail
activities. Visitors must provide their own horses.
Lake Mineral Wells State Trailway (day use only).
The Trailway provides opportunities for hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians.
Since the Trailway is located on a railroad bed, the grades are very flat and
curves are very gentle, making it popular for trail users of all ages and abilities.
Camping and picnicking is available in the state park.
The Trailway is 20 miles long and ten feet wide. The 2 miles of surface from the downtown Mineral Wells trailhead toward the east is asphalt; the remaining 18 miles is finely crushed and screened limestone. Each of the Trailway's 4 trailheads has paved parking, drinking water, restrooms, trail information and accessible parking. All 16 bridges have been decked and railed for safety. The Trailway's 500-foot signature bridge, adorned with 104 Lone Stars, is designed to meet American Disabilities Act requirements and allows trail users to safely travel over US Highway 180. Note: The Trailway may be closed during wet weather. Visitors must provide their own horses.
Lake Somerville S. P.
Note:
Beginning December 5, 2005 the Nails Creek Unit is closed for camping and will
be available for day use only.
Both Nails Creek and Birch Creek State Parks have designated equestrian trails and Birch Creek offers equestrian campsites. The Lake Somerville Trailway, connecting both parks, is 13 miles long, with various loop trails branching from it. The terrain is hilly and rocky at the trail ends, but flat and grassy in between. All paths are multi-use and open to hikers, cyclists, and horse riders. There are self-composting toilets and shade shelters spaced along the trail. Non-potable water sources, as well as creeks and streams, are available for horses along the trail, but campers must carry in their own drinking water. Visitors must provide their own horses.
There are 5 primitive areas along the trail. Ground fires are prohibited along the trail and in primitive camping areas. Birch Creek has individual equestrian sites at their trailheads with hitching posts, fire rings, picnic tables, grills, and drinkable water nearby.
Palo Duro Canyon S. P.
This park has approximately 10.5 miles of trails with
generally semi-rough terrain. One trail is strictly for horses, while the others
are shared with
other park users. The first is the Turnaround Equestrian Trail, which is about
4 miles round-trip and is for horses only; the second is the Interconnecting
Trail, about 2 miles round-trip and is multi-use; and the third is the Lighthouse
Trail, which is also multi-use and about 4.5 miles round-trip. Riders can wander
below Turnaround Trail (1/4-mile on either side of the trail to the park boundary),
but park officials advise against it because the terrain is hilly, rocky, and
borders the cliffs. Visitors may bring their own horses. There are two large
trailer parking areas at the designated equestrian campground near Turnaround
Trail. There are 6 campsites with corral and water nearby. Camping is primitive
and riders must bring water buckets for horses and walk or drive to a nearby
camping area for restrooms and showers.
Old West Stables - Located inside the park on the Canyon Floor, the Old West Stables are open year-round (365 days a year) for you to explore the beauty of the Canyon, following in the footsteps of the cowboys and Indians who were here before you.
The courteous wranglers provide both a horseback tour of the scenic Timbercreek Canyon and a narrated, mule-drawn covered wagon ride. Talk with Dave Harris or one of his boys about setting up a special Ride to the Lighthouse - an all-day excursion to the awe-inspiring Sunday Canyon and the Lighthouse Rock, a formation so unique that it has been designated a National Natural Landmark.
In addition, at the Old West stables, you will find a huge variety of drinks and snacks, including the famous Palo Duro Custard on a cone. Look through the gift shop to pick out that unique item for a loved one back home and be sure to purchase one of the shirts or hats to remember your trip.
The Harris' excel in serving groups, including church groups and birthday parties and will strive to make your group outing one to remember.
For current rates, details, and reservations, please call 806/488-2180 or
write us at:
Old West Stables
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
RR 2, Box 285
Canyon, Texas 79015
Parrie Haynes Ranch
Bring your horse and ride over 50 miles of marked trails on this 4500+ acre
ranch just 60 miles north of Austin. You'll find winding trails through cattle
pastures, cedar and oak trees and cross crystal clear streams. Some steep
climbs and rocky areas afford gorgeous Hill Country views. The trails are
suitable for novice or experienced riders, and buggies or wagons on the
east and west sides. Water is available on trail. Visitors
must provide their own horses and shoes are highly recommended.
The Equestrian Center, located atop a knob with gentle breezes and amazing views, is available year-round . The Equestrian Campground features twenty-six 30-amp electrical hookups. Campsites include water, RV electric and horse pens. Also available is the Cowboy Cabin which has a bunk-bed, kitchen area and AC unit. Primitive camping is also available in the Equestrian Center, or chose a remote campsite for your outdoor adventure. Facility has vaulted toilets. Campfires are permitted in certain areas when weather conditions allow. Large groups can rent the Clubhouse complete with a commercial kitchen, tables with seating for 50 people, an indoor meeting room and covered patio.
The Equestrian Center is accessible 24 hours a day. Campsites and parking for day riding is located on Maxdale Road. Trail maps are available at the self-serve iron ranger.
Prices per rig:
- Overnight:
- Primitive Camping $10.00 nightly (fee includes day riding)
- Electric, Water & Pens $12.00 nightly (fee includes day riding)
- Day Riding $10.00
Current proof of negative Coggins is required. For reservations email us at phr@tpwd.state.tx.us or call 254-554-3970 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Ray
Roberts Lake S. P. (Isle du Dois Unit & Greenbelt Corridor)
Isle du
Bois Unit: Visitors can enjoy the 12.5-mile trail winding through oak and pine
trees, passing by the lake, with occasional hills. Blue Stem Grove,
the equestrian area, has 14 campsites that can each hold up to a combined total
of 8 people and horses. Each campsite has a picnic table, a fire-ring, a lamp
post, and a hitching post. Water is available in the area, but there is no
electricity. There is a composting toilet nearby. A water hydrant is located
in the parking area, but visitors must bring their own buckets. Visitors must
provide their own horses.
Ray Roberts Lake/Lake Lewisville Greenbelt Corridor (day use only)
is a 10 mile multi-use trail system that begins at the Ray Roberts Dam and
ends at the headwaters of Lake Lewisville. This unique trail corridor meanders
along the heavily wooded banks of the Elm Fork Branch of the Trinity River.
Equestrians, hikers, bikers, canoeists, birdwatchers, anglers, and other outdoor
enthusiasts can access the trail at one of three trailheads, located at FM
455, FM 428 and Hwy. 380. Canoe and kayak rentals are available by calling
Cross Timbers Outdoors at 940-872-0404. Visitors must provide their own horses.
San Angelo S. P.
The park has 50 miles of developed, multi-use trails for hiking,
mountain biking, and equestrian use. Visitors must provide their own horses.
Equestrian
camping is allowed in some electrical sites, back pack sites, and developed
sites. Back pack distances in range from 5 miles to 20 miles. There are no
pens or tethers; campers may bring portable pens. Water is provided in some
places throughout the primitive areas. An equestrian area is being prepared
across the creek from the Bald Eagle Creek electrical area (where equestrian
users are currently encouraged to camp). Visitors must remove waste (clean
area) when leaving. Special trail rides for groups are offered in a wildlife
area of over 1,000 acres called "Macy's Last Stand."
Horse rentals available in or near the park.
If you have questions, call 1-800-792-1112, or call the park directly.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744