Must-Ride Trails & Equestrian Destinations

Texas is a dream destination for equestrians, offering vast ranchlands, rolling hill country, rugged deserts, and scenic coastal trails. Whether you're looking for a multi-day pack trip, a leisurely ride through bluebonnet fields, or a historic cowboy experience, Texas has it all. Saddle up and explore these bucket list-worthy horseback adventures across the Lone Star State!

1. Big Bend National Park

📍 Location: Southwest Texas
🌟 Why It’s Unforgettable:

• One of the most remote and rugged equestrian destinations in the U.S.
• Ride through stunning desert landscapes, Rio Grande river crossings, and dramatic canyons.
• Horse camping and multi-day backcountry rides available.

🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Lajitas Equestrian Center – A luxury horse resort with stabling, guided rides, and breathtaking scenery.
🎯 Must-Try Experience: Ride along the Rio Grande and into Santa Elena Canyon for an unforgettable journey.

2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

📍 Location: Near Amarillo, TX
🌟 Why It’s Unforgettable:

• The “Grand Canyon of Texas” – second-largest canyon in the U.S.
• Features 1,500-foot cliffs, striking red rock formations, and 16 miles of equestrian trails.
• Stunning sunrises and sunsets that transform the canyon into a painter’s dream.

🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Palo Duro Riding Stables & Campsites – Offers horse camping and guided trail rides through the canyon.
🎯 Must-Try Experience: Ride the Lighthouse Trail and see the park’s most famous rock formation.

3. Hill Country State Natural Area

📍 Location: Bandera, TX (The Cowboy Capital of the World)
🌟 Why It’s Unforgettable:

• Over 5,000 acres of pristine Texas Hill Country trails.
• Rolling hills, scenic overlooks, and historic ranchland make for perfect rides.
• Designated horse camping sites with pens and water access.

🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Silver Spur Ranch – A true Texas dude ranch with lodging, trail rides, and cowboy-style cookouts.
🎯 Must-Try Experience: Camp under the stars and wake up to a sunrise ride through the rugged hills.

4. Mustang Island State Park

📍 Location: Corpus Christi, TX
🌟 Why It’s Unforgettable:

• One of the only places in Texas where you can ride horses on the beach.
• Miles of untouched coastline and Gulf views.
• Soft sand makes for an easy ride, even for beginner riders.

🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Padre Island National Seashore Horse Camping – Provides designated equestrian camping near the beach.
🎯 Must-Try Experience: Ride along the surf at sunset for an absolutely magical experience.

5. Caprock Canyons State Park

📍 Location: Quitaque, TX
🌟 Why It’s Unforgettable:

• Home to the official Texas State Bison Herd – see these majestic animals from horseback!
• More than 90 miles of designated equestrian trails.
• Towering cliffs, red rock formations, and hidden valleys.

🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Caprock Canyons Equestrian Campground – Offers horse corrals and direct trail access.
🎯 Must-Try Experience: Ride the Haynes Ridge Overlook Trail for some of the best views in the park.

6. Sam Houston National Forest

📍 Location: North of Houston, TX
🌟 Why It’s Unforgettable:

• Shaded pine forests and peaceful lake views.
• 85 miles of well-maintained equestrian trails.
• Great for year-round riding with mild winters.

🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Triple Creek Horse Outfitters – A full-service equestrian retreat with lodging and guided rides.
🎯 Must-Try Experience: Take the Lone Star Hiking Trail for a quiet, wooded ride away from the crowds.

7. Fort Worth Stockyards & Historic Trails

📍 Location: Fort Worth, TX
🌟 Why It’s Unforgettable:

• Step into cowboy history with a ride through the famous Stockyards.
• Ride through historic cattle drive routes and see real Texas longhorns.
• Authentic cowboy experiences, rodeos, and Western heritage events.

🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Stockyards Stables – Offers boarding and guided rides through the historic district.
🎯 Must-Try Experience: Join the Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive – a true Texas cowboy experience on horseback.

Tips for Horse Travel in Texas

✔ Stay Hydrated – Texas heat can be intense, so pack plenty of water for both you and your horse.
✔ Plan for the Weather – Summers are hot; best riding times are early morning or late afternoon.
✔ Check Local Regulations – Some parks require permits for equestrian access.
✔ Prepare for Varied Terrain – From beaches to mountains to deserts, make sure your horse is fit for the ride.
✔ Book Lodging in Advance – Horse-friendly stays can fill up fast, especially during peak riding seasons.

Saddle Up for the Ultimate Texas Horse Adventure!

Whether you dream of riding through wild canyons, galloping along the Gulf Coast, or stepping back into cowboy history, Texas has something for every equestrian traveler. These bucket-list destinations promise adventure, stunning scenery, and unforgettable experiences on horseback.

🐴 Which Texas trail is on your must-ride list? Let us know!