Frequently Asked Questions

The Spring Cross Country Ride starts in Tahlequah, Ok. and ends in Ft. Smith, Ar.

• To cross state lines you will need a health certificate.
• Make sure you have up-to-date Coggins paperwork.  
• For the Refuge ride day you will need either a hunting or fishing license to cross the property.

• Your horse will need shoes to participate in the OATR.
• Pack a rain slicker (We ride rain or shine).
• Taking 2 animals is advised for the Cross Country ride. This ride is more challenging, and your horse/mule needs to be in some kind of shape.

Visit the Directions in the "Trail Ride" Tab above. 

They are all pasture camps There is water available for the stock. No electric, no hookup for water, and no amenities. There is a potty wagon. 

You can choose whether to move in the morning or evening. A bus will take you back to your animal in the morning or back to your rig in the evening. There are a total of 7 camps. If you choose to use the bus, there is a fee per day ($4).  We have someone volunteer there time to drive that bus and make it easier on everyone. The Fall Trial Ride has a stationary camp.

• If you are bringing a 38ft + trailer you will have to park at camp #2 for the first 2 nights (See camp locations on "Trail Ride" tab).
• A bus is available in the mornings or evenings to take you from one camp to another. You may move your rig at either time. (Bus Fee $4 per day)
• A potty wagon is available at camp.
• You may use electric pens, picket lines or whatever means necessary to overnight your animal. (No pens are provided)
• Make sure your tanks are full; there is nowhere to fill them.
• You may bring a personal generator to camp; this will be your only source of electricity. (a few electricity spots will be available in Ft. Smith for rent ($25 per night)).

The trials change in difficulty but essentially they are all mountainous. We have to ride the pavement roads in places and into Ft. Smith, but other than that, we stay in the woods. This is all private property you would never see otherwise. Your horse or mule will need shoes. 

Approximately 15-20 miles per day. There are snack breaks, lunch and bathroom breaks throughout the day.  

No. You can ride any or all days that you like. There are a few trophies awarded at the banquet for riding the whole way, but you can do as you wish.

You may tie them to a tree or your trailer, use electric fencing, portable panels, picket line, hobble line or any other fashion. Remember you will have to move it everyday for the Spring Ride.  

• You are responsible for your own food preparations during the rides and at camp.
• No trash is to be left at camps or on the trail, our landowners are the only reason we get to continue this tradition. Please let's respect and thank them.

Find someone with an orange band on their hat, or a board member to assist you. Everyone is very welcoming.

• White Long Sleeve Button Up Shirt
• Blue Jeans
• Straw Hat
• Green Tie (We have some available for purchase)
• Yellow Slicker (Tied on your horse)

There will be a closing banquet at the end of the Trial Ride (Food is Provided).

You must be a paid member to ride. You can register with our secretary at Hanging Rock Camp. You may also mail in your fees before the ride, or take advantage of registering on the website.