Ride Management

Camping is primitive only and not included in the entry fee (see registration form).   Ride camp opens at 10 AM on Saturday.   Aside from the main camping area that goes in a circle, there is also a large parking area on the north side of Saddle Pen Road, just across the road from the main camping area.  Plenty of horse water in camp based on at least 6 spigots.  There is also another huge spot about a few hundred feet down the road on the left for overflow parking.   

Tidewater Trailhead isn't all that large, so please park very close to your neighbors.  Someone will direct you where to park.  If you park where you shouldn't or take an excessive amount of space, you may have to move.  

If possible, day riders should come the day before riding to register, set up crew area, eat dinner, and attend the ride meeting.  On your ride day, please arrive at least one hour before your start time.  The first trail for the longer distances uses the same entry road, so if you see horses coming down the road as you arrive, please stop and allow those horses to go about 1/4 mile and get into the woods.  Better yet, please do not arrive after 6:45 am as horses are warming up!  It's always about the horse!

It's Goethe.  That means that you will encounter some water, some mud, some sand, some rocks, some forest roads, and some jeep trails.  How much of each depends on how dry or wet it is.

Those riding an LD or intro will likely find that barefoot is fine if your horse has good hooves.  You may need to ride on the side or slow down to cross over a stony road or shallow water crossing.  A trail update will be provided about a week before the event.  Hoof protection is recommended for those riding 50 or more miles because you will be riding on some lime rock forest roads.

All vet checks will be in camp based on loops of 9to 25 miles.

Basically none.  No hookups.  There is one bathroom and porta-potties.  There are numerous spigots for horse water.  The pavilion is the base for ride meetings, dinner & awards.  

Failure to be nice to volunteers, officials and other riders is grounds for disqualification. No cantering in camp.  If you are meeting traffic on two-way trails, no cantering, you may need to walk as there are some young horses and riders.  If you plan to pass, ASK the rider(s) if it is ok and wait for them to say YES please.   No silently zooming up and/or recklessly passing other riders!  Any rider that receives multiple complaints for being reckless and unsafe may be disqualified or only receive a completion.  

Road crossings are your responsibility for safety.  You must stop and look to make certain it's safe to cross.  Dogs are welcome but MUST be on a leash at all times.  

Dogs that bark non-stop when you're gone should be left at home.  You must pick up after your dog. Have fun and be safe!

Each horse owner, trainer, and/or rider is responsible for safe camping and restraint of their horse(s).

Please dump manure into the woods around the parking area.  Do not leave piles near your campsite.   Anyone that leaves trash, manure, or excessive amounts of hay will pay a $75 cleanup surcharge and results will be withheld until paid. 

If you incur any vet or farrier services,  you are expected to pay directly and on the spot.  We are still working on getting a farrier for the event.  Chris Francis is the farrier and may be reached at 904-524-7581

All riders must wear a helmet when mounted.  No exceptions.  If you want your AERC ride card, you must pick it up at awards.  You are also welcome to take a picture with your phone at ride completion.  It's not our job to send you your ride card after the event so please take it with you from awards.  We keep the cards until then to verify results and BC.

Dinner is included for each rider for the night before your ride.  Extra dinners may be reserved on the registration form.  If extra dinners are available onsite, be prepared to pay $20.