They Cater To Vacationing Horsemen

They Cater To Vacationing Horsemen LIVESTOCK Horses/Mules 33-4-9 Providing a facility for horse enthusiasts to vacation with their horses looks to be a profitable new enterprise for Jodi and Ron Hansen, Leonard, N. Dak. Their Sheyenne Oaks Horse Camp and RV Park borders the Sheyenne National Grasslands Park and offers amenities for both humans and horses. "It's such an awesome area," says Jodi Hansen. "When this property came up for sale last fall, we felt like it should be a campground. So many people are missing out on an opportunity to visit this area and ride." With no vehicles allowed in some parts of the Grasslands, Sheyenne provides easy access for people who want to bring their RV, trailer or tent and spend time exploring. Hansen's husband, Ron, grew up in the area and often spent entire days riding in the Grasslands. The Hansens and their five children all ride horses and operate a horse stable and dog kennel business at their home. After purchasing the new property last year they set up 21 roomy sites for campers and horse trailers with full hookups, and also built a row of individual 12 by 12-ft. corrals for horses. The shower house includes three individual units with geothermal heated floors and cozy knotty pine walls. Propane, coffee, ice and other convenience items are available at the camper office. The Hansens also have certified hay for sale that they bale themselves. Many national areas such as the Grasslands require clean hay to prevent the spread of weeds. "This area is good for beginners, as well as advanced riders," Hansen says. "They can ride in the open or go into the trees and take some of the steeper hills. We have all kinds of terrain here." The 70,000-acre grasslands has 27 miles of trails that vary from cow paths to the graveled North Country Scenic Trail, which also attracts hikers, bikers, bird watchers and other outdoor enthusiasts. The best way for riders to explore is off the trail, occasionally crisscrossing the trail to keep your bearings, Hansen suggests. For those who don't have horses, the Hansens offer horses and trail rides, as well as wagon rides behind a team of Percherons. In addition to full hookup sites, there are primitive sites for tents and two rental houses. Wireless Internet is available throughout the RV Park. Rates for camper hookups start at $25 for weeknights with discounts for long term camping. "We're at stage one," Hansen says about the campgrounds. "There will always be a reason to check back for new additions." The Hansens plan to add music evenings, a tipi, chuckwagon and other events and amenities in the future. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Sheyenne Oaks Horse Camp and RV Park, 6050 County Road 23, Leonard, N. Dak. 58052 (ph 701 645-9088; www.sheyenne oaks.com).

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