Having fun with Gov. Dodge Equestrians

While furry four-legged riding buddies kick up their heels and enjoy some time off from trail riding, The Friends of Governor Dodge-Equestrians have been very busy making plans for the upcoming riding season.

2017 activities

Last June many joined in the fun at the annual fundraiser. The poker ride showcased horse trails in the northeast corner of the park, followed by a picnic lunch and silent auction/raffle. More than $3,500 was raised in support of equestrian facilities at Governor Dodge.

In August, a “Meet the Horses” open house and ice cream social was hosted with the theme of how to safely share trails with horses.  Over 250 park visitors stopped by to meet, feed, brush and pet the gentle volunteer steeds. Horse committee volunteers chatted with non-horse guests about shared trail safety and handed out WHC Trail Safety brochures. 

In 2017, Friends of Governor Dodge-Equestrians continued to make progress on the new campground project. After receiving several plan options from DNR landscape architects, the group conducted a series of personal interviews with individuals around the state to gather input on the plans and to assess the level of support for the ambitious project.  This interview feedback is being used to further refine the campground plan. A final version, including a budget, is anticipated later this year. 

In the coming season the group will be working with the park on improvements to the horse trails, including trailside location markers and a rest stop with picnic table and hitching rails on the southern section of the Outer Loop Trail.  The rest stop would provide a much-needed break option on this long and beautiful, more remote, trail segment.  The group hopes to obtain a grant that will provide matching funds.

2018 activities preview

Sunday, June 3, Friends of Governor Dodge-Equestrians will again host a poker ride fundraiser covering a different section of the beautiful trails.  A catered lunch and lots of great silent auction items are planned.

A “Meet the Horses” open house will be held at the horse campground on Saturday afternoon, Aug. 25. 

A lot of exciting things are planned for 2018. New members are welcome.

Please show your support for this great state park by joining Friends of Governor Dodge-Equestrians. Dues are $20 and include membership in the general Friends of Governor Dodge organization.

Visit the newly revised website www.GovDodgeEquestrians for more information and to join.

Remember, even though the horse trails at Governor Dodge State Park are closed until May 1, the park is open year around.