Backcountry Horsemen of California

Header Image of BCHC Members on a Trail.
BCHCalifornia Logo

Welcome!

Backcountry Horsemen of California (BCHC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to

KEEPING PUBLIC LANDS OPEN TO PACK AND SADDLE STOCK USE

We accomplish this goal through education and volunteer service.

Whether you are a member already or an interested equine enthusiast,
we welcome you to learn more about BCHC through this website.

PRESERVE PROTECT MAINTAIN

Find Out More About Us

History

A group of private and commercial packers met in 1981 to form the High Sierra Stock Users Association (HSSUA) with the purpose of representing horsemen in dealings with the administrators of public lands.

Five years later the HSSUA joined with Montana, Idaho and Washington to form an affiliation called the Back Country Horsemen of America (BCHA). This national organization’s task is to coordinate activities of the various state backcountry organizations. The BCHA now has organizations in 34 states.

The Backcountry Horsemen of California (BCHC) is composed of members who are passionate about keeping public lands open and accessible for ALL – which includes non-equestrians and ALL who love trails. Our organization is volunteer based and functions under the guidance of the BCHC Executive Committee and State Board of Directors.

Current Events

2024 Packing Intern Scholarship Awarded

My name is Jenna Haack and I’m so excited to be joining the BCH crew for the upcoming season as an intern! Originally, I’m from Wisconsin and spend most of my winters there, like a confused migratory bird, and my summer’s are always open for new adventures, often out of state. After graduating from UW-River Falls with a B.S. in Animal Science, I wanted to grow my skill set which fueled my interest for seasonal work. I’ve held a variety of temporary jobs from Range Technician with the U.S. Forest Service to 4-H Extension Agent in South Dakota to a Wrangler in Utah, I’m thrilled to apply my experiences to this new challenge while soaking up all the knowledge around me. In my free time I enjoy hiking, riding my horses, and spending time with my friends, family, and cows. I’m looking forward to a great season, can’t wait to see you on the trail!

ALERT!

Public Lands Action Items

All members are encouraged to make comments on the Lake Tahoe National Forest E-Bike Trail Designation Project. See the Public Lands page of this website.

In addition, please use the E-Bike Reporting Form and the Horse Camp Incident Form when you see problems.

E-Bike Reporting Form

Horse Camp Incident Form

Support the Cause

Ensure that public lands remain open to recreational stock use in America’s backcountry through volunteerism, educational programs and working in conjunction with government agencies.