Caprock Canyons State Park
Quitaque, Texas
September 16-17, 2011
The bison herd at Caprock has been designated the Texas Official Bison Herd and represents the most nearly pure blood of all the remaining bison in a herd begun by Charles Goodnight on the JA Ranch in 1879. The next step in herd management is to release the herd from their pens to a free-roaming range allowing the public to view animals in their home range. The first phase of this release will be 5,000 acres – the first time these animals have had free range in their lifetimes giving visitors a “Yellowstone” experience of seeing them roam in the park.
To celebrate this event Caprock Canyons State Park is sponsoring a weekend of activities focused on the historical context of the free range bison. Following dedication of this venture, visitors can enjoy interpretive displays, living history exhibits, and a trail ride in the canyon.
Saturday events:
Exhibition area on north side of Lake Theo
9 am – 10 am: Ribbon cutting ceremony
10 am – 5 pm: Exhibitors and vendor open
Noon: Benefit lunch with bison burgers
Wild Horse Camping Area Trail Ride
Check in at Visitors Center:
Current negative Coggins certification and Ride Liability Release required
Entry fees will be waived for this event, but regular camping fees apply and are payable to the park upon entry.
Saturday: 10:30 am Ride with group or on your own.
Route will be the Lower Canyon Trail (approximately 8 miles). Animal water will be available at the North Prong parking lot. Riders will need to carry water for themselves.
Afternoon: Visit exhibits at Lake Theo or ride on your own
6:00 pm – Potluck supper for riders in Wild Horse camping area. Bring salads, vegetables, desserts. Meat and tea will be provided by Texas Equestrian Trail Riders Assn. (TETRA)
Sunday: 8:30 am – group ride on Canyon Rim trail (or ride on your own)
Several volunteers are needed to help with Coggins check, Liability Release collection and scouting on trailride.
To RSVP or for information on trail ride: Barbara McKnight 254-595-2119 or bmcknight3276@msn.com. Or call Park Headquarters at 806-455-1492.
Bison Restoration Invite 2pg.pdf
