Vision

Back Country Horsemen was envisioned as a service- and education-focused organization, not a special interest group. The goal was to build credibility for critiquing agency management through backcountry work. Our mission blends service and education to preserve recreational stock use. The name reflects our broader commitment to all public lands. We remain focused on our mission, as other organizations address various issues.

Mission

The purpose of this organization shall be:

To perpetuate the common sense use and enjoyment of horses in America’s back country and wilderness.

To work to ensure that public lands remain open

to recreational stock use.

To assist the various government and private agencies in their maintenance and management of said resource.

To educate, encourage and solicit active participation in the wise use of the back country resource by horsemen and the general public commensurate with our heritage.

To foster and encourage the formation of new state Back Country Horsemen’s organizations.

Who are the…

  • A revered nationwide 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to safeguarding the passage of equestrians across public lands. Integral to this mission is the collaboration with land managers and other allies, guiding the planning and upkeep of these cherished terrains. Official Site: https://www.bcha.org/

  • Established in 1992 and chartered in 1995, BCHNC is the oldest state chapter east of the Mississippi River. The organization collaborates with individuals, businesses, and federal and state agencies, including various national forests and parks in North Carolina. BCHNC is dedicated to preserving public lands for equestrian use and values the beauty of the southeastern forests and parks. Official Site: https://bchnc.wordpress.com/

  • One of six chapters in North Carolina affiliated with the Back Country Horsemen of America, this committed group of equestrians has been active since 2010. Our primary focus is on the maintenance and preservation of trails within the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest.

    Our purpose is to perpetuate the common sense use and enjoyment of horses on trails.. We work in collaboration with other BCH chapters, the U.S. Forest Service, and various outdoor organizations, including Pisgah Area SORBA, The Pisgah Conservancy, and the Carolina Mountain Club.