Tuttle Creek Horse Trails

Specific Need

While trail improvement and maintenance is an ongoing commitment, the funds generated from the Rural Riley County Match Day are destined for the following specific needs: 

• New, improved signage at the entrance to the Carnahan Creek Recreation Area. The new signage will include park rules, QR codes linked to updated trail maps, as well as directives for accessing different areas of the park! This project has been deferred due to lack of funds the past year, but will help promote responsible park usage across all recreational user types!

• New, high visibility trail markers and trail head designators at Carnahan Creek Recreation Area. The mutliuse trails system have undergone a massive revitilation and reclaimation effort over the last two years, and new signage will improve accessibility for all park partrons!
• Installation of a hitching post at the bathroom in Carnahan Creek Recreation Area. The recreation area has one central toilet facility that is accesible via vehicle, horseback, bicycle, or on foot. However, there is currently no way for equestrians to secure their horses while using the amenties. The installation of a hitching post would ensure horse and rider safety while utilizing the facilities. 
• Installation of hitching posts by the bathhouse at Randolph State Park. Randolph State Park has been the focus of a massive revitalization effort over the last 5 years, with improvements to the multiuse trails, construction of a shelter house, as well as designation of equestrian-specific campsites with permanent horse corrals. However, there remains a need for a safe way to secure horses while equestrians utilize the toilet facilities. The installation of a hitching post would facilitate rider and horse safety.

Mission

The mission of the Tuttle Creek Chapter of the Back Country Horsemen of Kansas is to: perpetuate the common sense use and enjoyment of horses in America's back country and Wilderness areas, work to ensure that public lands remain open to recreational stock use, and assist various government, state and private agencies in their maintenance and management of said resource. Additionally, we aim to educate, encourage and solicit active participation in the wise and sustaining use of the back country resource by horsemen and the general public commensurate with our heritage.

Profile

About the Tuttle Creek Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Kansas

The Tuttle Creek Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Kansas is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving access to public lands while promoting the responsible use of horses and pack animals in Kansas' backcountry and natural areas. We are part of a statewide and national network of volunteers committed to protecting our outdoor heritage for future generations.

Our members work alongside local, state, federal, and private land managers to help maintain trails, improve recreational access, remove obstacles, and support stewardship projects that benefit all outdoor users. Through volunteer service, education, and community partnerships, we encourage the safe, sustainable, and respectful use of public lands.

The chapter also promotes horsemanship, trail safety, Leave No Trace principles, and responsible stock use through educational programs, outreach events, and hands-on volunteer opportunities. We welcome riders of all experience levels who share our commitment to preserving the tradition of horseback access to America's public lands.

Support from Rural Riley County Match Day allows us to purchase trail tools and safety equipment, maintain volunteer resources, support educational programming, and expand our trails. Every donation directly strengthens our ability to serve the community, protect public lands, and preserve access to the outdoors for everyone.

By fostering volunteerism, and collaboration, the Tuttle Creek Chapter helps ensure that trails remain open, well-maintained, and accessible while preserving the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of our region for generations to come.

Together, we are keeping trails open, caring for our public lands, and ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty and freedom of Kansas' backcountry.