Meet Gus: The Palomino Trail Horse at Wild West Campground

Meet Gus, Your Favorite Trail Horse!

I’m Gus—a palomino trail horse at Wild West Campground & Corral in Amherst, WI, with a bit of personality and a story worth telling. If you’ve ever gone riding at Wild West and suddenly had to duck under a tree branch, there’s a pretty good chance I was your ride.

 

From Texas Kill Pen to Wisconsin Trails

I didn’t always live this life, though. I came from a kill pen in Texas, just like my buddy PB. The journey up here wasn’t easy—it was long, stressful and full of unknowns. But everything changed when I arrived in Wisconsin at Wild West in the summer of 2020.

 

A Trail Horse Kids Can’t Get Enough Of

Now, I spend my days as a trusted trail horse, giving horseback rides to kids ages 10 to 13. I’ve become one of the go-to horses for beginner riders who want a fun and memorable trail riding experience—and I’m the self-proclaimed Girls Horse Camp favorite! And let me tell you—I enjoy every second of it.

 

A Little Quirky and a Lot of Fun

Standing about 14 hands tall with my golden palomino coat, I might look calm and steady (and really I am), but I’ve got a playful side too. I’m known around the campground for my quirky habit of tossing my head up and down on the trail. It keeps things interesting and gives my riders a ride they won’t forget.

 

Watch Out for Those Branches

I’ve also got a bit of a reputation when it comes to trees.

Low-hanging branches? I spot them every time. Some folks think I do it on purpose—and honestly, they might not be wrong. I like to keep my riders alert. After all, horseback riding should be an adventure, not just a walk in the woods.

 

Life at Wild West Campground & Corral

When I’m not leading trail rides, I spend time with my best friends, Expo and PB. We’ve all come a long way from where we started, and there’s a bond between us that only comes from shared experience. Life at Wild West Campground & Corral is something special—fresh air, open trails and a steady stream of new riders to meet.

 

 

 

 

 

More Than a Rescue Horse

At around 10 years old, I’ve found my purpose. I’m not just a rescue horse—I’m part of the Wild West experience. I help kids build confidence, create memories and maybe even laugh a little when they have to duck out of the way of a branch.

 

A Second Chance Worth Celebrating

From a Texas kill pen to becoming a favorite trail horse, my journey is proof that second chances can lead to something pretty amazing.

So if you’re planning a horseback riding trip at Wild West Campground, keep an eye out for me.

Just remember to watch for those branches.

With a head bob and a nod,
Gus