Backcountry Horsemen of California
Backcountry Horsemen of California (BCHC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to
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.
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.
Read Mathilda's article from the Spring 2025 edition of The Backcountry News 
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
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.