If your experience with horses has been limited to those that are domesticated, witnessing an untamed one is truly awe-inspiring.
Has you ever witnessed a horse running freely? It’s an uncommon and awe-inspiring scene. Thankfully, there are several locations where one can yet experience the sheer splendor of wild horses—untamed and magnificent—as they gallop over the terrain.
Although often called "wild," the free-ranging equines found throughout the U.S. are actually considered feral since their ancestors were domesticated at some point. These creatures mostly trace back to those who broke away from herds belonging to Spanish explorers, members of the United States Cavalry, Native American tribes, or cattle farmers—animals that adapted well enough to thrive and reproduce in nature. Today, you can find them roaming vast grasslands, rugged mountain ranges, and coastal areas all over America; however, their current population is significantly smaller compared to historical levels.
Impressive and robust, horses are truly captivating creatures. Despite the fact that areas where they can run wild and free are few, numerous such sites exist in the Southern regions allowing guests to observe these magnificent beings from afar.
Georgia
Cumberland Island National Seashore
Off the coast of Georgia lies Cumberland Island, which boasts a population of approximately 150 to 200 wild horses. These equines trace their ancestry back to various modern breeds such as Tennessee Walkers, American Quarter Horses, Arabians, and Paso Finos. Accessible only by boat, this pristine island offers an unforgettable encounter with nature. Visitors have the option to use the ferry. From St. Mary’s to admire its natural splendor.
Recently, the Cumberland Island horse population has become entangled in a legal dispute. These animals receive no management from organizations or park services, leading to scarce resources such as food, water, and veterinary attention. Groups dedicated to animal welfare are striving to secure better support for this wild herd, whose life expectancy is significantly shorter compared to that of an average horse.
They can be clearly spotted along Cumberland's shoreline, feeding on sea oats or scruffy plants as they graze among the dunes across the island’s 18 miles of unspoiled beaches. These horses frequently wander through the tabby remains, sometimes accompanied by their foals. Visitors are advised not to approach them closely. Although the horses might seem friendly, they tend to be quite erratic and are better observed from a slight distance.
The storied Greyfield Inn It stands as the sole commercial enterprise on the island, managed and possessed by the Carnegie family. Originally constructed in 1900 as an escape, this hotel served as the location where various events took place. The wedding celebration of John F. Kennedy, Jr., and Carolyn Bessette held in 1996 Visitors have the option to reside in one of 15 distinct rooms as they explore walks along sandy paths beneath towering old trees. The property offers natural history lessons focused on the local maritime forests and wetlands, alongside meals sourced directly from the hotel’s own gardens through its farm-to-table concept. Additionally, you might choose to base yourself at neighboring Amelia Island before taking a ferry over to Cumberland for a memorable excursion.
North Carolina
Corolla
The backstory of the feral horses that inhabit this part of the region Outer Banks is quite amazing.
Referred to as the "Graveyard of the Atlantic," the coast of Corolla features a shallow shoreline characterized by shifting sandbars that alter course due to ocean currents. Consistent with its title, it has been the site of numerous shipwrecks throughout history. Centuries ago, this area was particularly treacherous. Spanish Mustangs fled these perilous journeys and made their way to shore, surviving to roam in groups. You can still spot these Banker Horses in the area nowadays.
People who want to see the local wild horses can choose several ways. Renting a jeep for a self-directed exploration into the area is one option. Currituck National Wildlife Refuge or go on an excursion led by a guide.
The Corolla Wild Horse Preservation Group oversees the care and well-being of the horses. Based in the Historic Old Village of Corolla, visitors can contribute to their initiatives and gain knowledge about the Banker horse breed.
The southernmost island of the Outer Banks hosts a group of wild horses at Shackleford Banks. Located approximately three miles offshore from the mainland, you'll need a boat to approach closely enough for viewing. Additionally, a smaller band resides within an enclosed 180-acre reserve on Ocracoke Island.
Virginia
Chincoteague and Assateague Wild Pony Swim
Do you recall the book? Misty of Chinconteague By Marguerite Henry? This tale revolves around a wild mare named Phantom and her foal, Misty, which earned the Newbery Medal in 1948 and later became a film in 1961. Although the actual Misty was indeed born in confinement, the narrative captures the essence of the yearly wild horse roundups and the famous Pony Swim event. Chinconteague to Assateague —the two barrier islands located on Virginia and Maryland’s coastline, straddling the state borders—are entirely genuine.
A fence stretches along the border between Virginia and Maryland, dividing herds of horses into two distinct groups. The ones closest to the south belong to the owners. Chinconteague Volunteer Fire Company The saltwater cowboys manage the herd's size by hosting an annual horse auction every last Thursday in July. They drive the ponies from the Virginia part of Assateague across the waterway to Chincoteage This year commemorates the 99th anniversary of the swim, where the foals are sold at auction.
The horses on the Maryland part of Assateague Island are looked after by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This particular group consists of approximately 150 animals, with roughly 50 of them kept near the roadway for easier viewing by tourists.
The swimming competition attracts both visitors and residents alike. A variety of activities take place, such as a procession following the rest period for the horses and a festive fair. It's spectacular to witness skilled equestrians guide the herd across the waterway. The first horse to touch the shore earns the title of King or Queen Neptune and gets tagged for drawing at the festival.
The revenue generated from both the sale and the auction goes toward covering veterinary expenses for the horses and aiding the volunteer firefighters. Additionally, there’s an opportunity to purchase naming rights for ponies that remain part of the herd. At least one horse's funds will be contributed to selected local charitable organizations. The event brims with positivity, providing various forms of support. The Feather Fund , a nonprofit organization created to assist needy children in purchasing their dream horse at auctions.
Related: The Top 20 Most Stunning Locations in Virginia, As Chosen By a Resident
South Carolina
The Carolina Marsh Tacky
The Marsh Tacky, South Carolina’s official state heritage horse, is a strong and steady creature descending from the horses brought over by 16th-century Spanish explorers. Known for their composure and agility, these animals were esteemed as reliable steeds and even contributed to American success during the Revolutionary War. Underneath Brigadier General Francis Marion I rode this steadfast horse through the swamp to overcome the British forces, which marked a turning point in the war efforts.
These horses roamed freely on the barrier islands. the Lowcountry Often rounded up and utilized as reliable mounts and for agricultural purposes by nearby farmers, they were completely evacuated from the islands in the 1980s because of their declining population and reduced habitat caused by developmental activities. Even though they are robust animals, their number had diminished to roughly 100 individuals just a few years prior when conservation efforts began.
Although the horses once roamed freely, Daufuskie Island’s shoreline , visitors to the island can observe the endeavors to rejuvenate the herd in their natural habitat at the restoration area. Daufuskie Island Marsh Tacky Society .
The first Marsh Tacky born On the isolated island in 40 years, Estelita came into the world in 2018 when the horses were kept safely in a pasture during Hurricane Matthew. This foal was followed by several others born on the island, among them a colt called Mateo, who too resulted from that period encompassing the storm.
Related: The 8 Most Stunning Spots Along the South Carolina Coast
Read the initial article on Southern Living