What To Bring
Whether you are familiar with camping with your horse or not, here are some suggestions of what to bring on Florida’s Cross State Ride.
Horse’s Needs:
(Don’t forget your Coggins) Come totally self-contained – with everything you might possibly need.
1. Recommend horses be shod one week in advance; on the front feet at least if riding for the whole week. Some people shoe all the way around.
2. To secure your horse you will need one of the following: Picket line, ground stake, temporary electric fence, or panels-tied to your trailer or a tree, if a tree is available.
3. Saddle or cantle bags, gall salve, medical supplies of all types including bute, Banamine and electrolytes. Tack repair supplies, extra lead ropes, halter, tack, blankets, buckets for feed and water, fly spray, hay (more than you think you will need) and feed. Consider checking with your horse’s vet for any recommendations as well.
4. A water truck will fill toughs at every campsite, at breaks and at the lunch stop. Potable water is not available on the ride.
People’s Needs:
1. Rain slicker, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, hat, jackets, light and heavy, and gloves.
2. Medical kit, flashlight, lantern, folding chairs, drinking water, ice, snacks, wet wipes, hose.
3. Sleeping arrangements: tent, truck, trailer, or motor home. Motels are few and far between and in every case a significant drive.
4. Porta-potties, snacks, and a caterer follow the ride to every break and lunch. You will need to provide your own drinking water. Potable water is not available.
5. Showers are available off-site at Peace River/Zolfo Springs, Hickory Hammock, and in Fort Pierce camps. (Ask for directions from ride staff)
February in Florida is unpredictable so pack accordingly
Florida Cracker Trail Association
The Florida Cracker Trail Association is a non-profit organization of volunteers dedicated to the mission of “Keeping History Alive”, by educating through demonstration, the Old Florida Cracker Pioneer ways of agriculture, animal husbandry, and respect for the land as well as the hardships and joys of life on the original frontier.