Horses in the Forest

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Horses in the Forest

Horses in ForestrySA Forests

Experience the joy of being with your horse in South Australia’s beautiful forest reserves. Our forests offer a relaxed, natural environment with well-marked trails and dedicated facilities for horse riders and walkers.

Where You Can bring Your Horse:

Shared-use trails for horse riding, walking, and cycling are available at:
- Second Valley Forest
- Kuitpo Forest
- Mount Crawford Forest
Fire tracks in plantation pine areas are open for riding, with convenient fence-line step-overs.
Sections of the Kidman Trail pass through Kuitpo and Mount Crawford Forests.
This iconic 269km multi-use trail is perfect for exploring South Australia on horseback. Learn more about the Kidman Trail here. Please note: Horses are not permitted in Native Forest Reserves, picnic areas, or campgrounds.

Exclusive Equestrian Facilities

We’ve created unique spaces for riders along the Kidman Trail and within our forests:

Jack’s Paddock
A dedicated horse campground in bushland on the Kidman Trail. Reserved for permit holders using the trail. Includes 8 horse yards.
Ponderosa Hut – Mount Crawford Forest
Perfect for overnight stays with horses. Features 4 upgraded horse yards.
Woodcutter’s Cottage – Kuitpo Forest
Historic stone cottage for small group stays. Includes 4 horse yards.
Tinjella Hut – Kuitpo Forest
Exclusive-use campground set in eucalypt woodland. Includes 8 horse yards for overnight stays.

Ride Responsibly

Follow the Forest Trail Code (see bottom of page).
Expect other users such as walkers and cyclists.
Use clean feed to prevent weed spread.
Remove all manure and feed before leaving.

Permit fees

Horse Permits

All riders must purchase a permit before entering the forest.

Adult: $8.15 per day | $81.50 per year
Child: $4.70 per day | $46.50 per year

Your permit fees help maintain and improve equestrian facilities, including:

Over 200 step-overs for easy forest access
Enlarged car parks for horse floats
Dedicated amenities and infrastructure for riders
Ongoing track maintenance and weed management to keep trails safe and enjoyable for everyone

Please view all ForestrySA fees and charges, including horse riding permits, here: Fees and Charges | ForestrySA

An event application must be submitted for large horse-riding events. Click here to complete an application.

BUY YOUR PERMIT

The forest is closed to the public on declared Total Fire Ban days. To report a fire, call 000.

For fire ban information phone 1800 362 361 or visit the CFS website. Being aware of a Total Fire Ban is your responsibility.

Fire is prohibited on ForestrySA land between November 1 and April 30 in any year. (These dates may be extended in areas where high fire danger persists).

Stay the night

We provide forest accommodation options especially for riders and their horses.

Woodcutter’s Cottage and Tinjella Hut in the Kuitpo Forest, and Ponderosa Hut in Mount Crawford Forest all feature secure onsite horse-yards.

Jack’s Paddock and Ponderosa Hut are available especially for users with horses and a valid Horse Permit at per-person camping prices.

BOOK YOUR STAY

Walk Sublime

Book for a Tranquil Forest Walk.

Enjoy a cup of tea with your guide in quiet observation, learning about your horse and getting to know each other while grooming. When horses and humans feel comfortable with each other, we head out on the trail together. Walking at your pace, with plenty of opportunities for rest stops.

You determine the distance, typically 1 – 8 km on peaceful loop trails. Sessions last for 2 – 2.5 hours in Kuitpo Forest.

CONTACT WALK SUBLIME

The forest is for everyone - please remember the

Forest Trail Code

The forest trail and road network is used by walkers, horse riders and cyclists.

To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety please consider:

For your safety, avoid areas where access is restricted, including where forestry operations are in progress. Look for signs.
Always wear a helmet when cycling and horse riding and travel at a safe speed according to your experience, track conditions and terrain.
Consider other users. Walkers give way to cyclists and both should give way to horse riders. Courtesy is the key.
Avoid steep muddy or loose trails and surfaces, where the tracks you leave behind can channel rainwater and cause erosion.