40 Something Cowgirls upcoming events

40SC HQ Sisterhood Series Challenge June: Ride Free (June 10, 2026)

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Sisterhood Series Challenge! June's theme: Ride Free

This year-long experience was created for one simple reason: none of us were meant to do life alone.

At 40 Something Cowgirls, sisterhood is the heartbeat of who we are. It’s showing up, lifting each other up, caring for ourselves and our communities, and choosing connection over isolation.

Each month, you’ll be invited into a new, optional challenge focused on encouragement, reflection, service, and growth. No pressure. No perfection. Loud or quiet, public or private — it all counts.

June Sisterhood Series Challenge – Ride Free

Summer is here, and this month's challenge is all about reconnecting with the reason we started this journey in the first place.

Not the ribbons.
Not the scores.
Not the endless to-do lists.

Just you, your horse, and the freedom that comes from being together.

This month, we invite you to Ride Free.

Take time to ride outside, explore a new trail, enjoy a quiet sunset ride, or simply spend a few extra moments appreciating the partnership you share with your horse.

Ask yourself:

✨ Where do you feel most free?
✨ What part of riding brings you the most joy?
✨ How has your horse helped you find freedom, confidence, or peace?

Photo Prompt of the Month:
"Where do you feel most free?"

Share a photo and tell us about the ride, place, or moment that helped you reconnect with the freedom horses bring to your life.

To participate:

1️⃣ Register for the June Sisterhood Series Challenge in the Wild Apricot app

2️⃣ Ride Free—however that looks for you

3️⃣ Share your photo and story in the 40 Something Cowgirls Facebook Group

Include your location or tag your chapter when you post.

Your story may inspire another Cowgirl to saddle up, take a deep breath, and remember why she rides.

This month's affirmation:

"I choose freedom.
I choose joy.
I make time for what fills my soul."

We can't wait to see where your adventures take you.

Photos shared for the challenge may be featured on 40SC social media as we celebrate the journey together.

#40SomethingCowgirls
#SisterhoodSeries
#HonorTheJourney

Kings Mountain NC, Attending the Polkville Rodeo **MEMBERS & GUESTS (June 19, 2026)

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

40 Something Cowgirls — Let’s Rodeo!

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of boots, bulls, and barrel racing at the Polkville Rodeo at Mintz Arena on June 19–20!

TWO NIGHTS. BIG ACTION. ONE WILD RIDE.

This exciting IPRA Sanctioned Event hosted by Rafter 3 Rodeo Company will feature:

Bull Riding Barrel Racing Bronc Riding Family-Friendly Rodeo Entertainment Vendors, concessions, and nonstop action all night long

Location: Mintz Arena – Polkville, NC Gates Open: 6:00 PM Rodeo Begins: 8:00 PM Nightly

Whether you’re a longtime rodeo fan or just looking for a fun summer night out with the girls, this is the perfect chance to kick up some dust and enjoy great company together! Wear your boots, your favorite cowgirl hat, and get ready for an action-packed evening. Purchase tickets online: www.RodeoPolkville.com

40 Something Cowgirls Reminder: Please register your attendance on Wild Apricot so we can keep everyone updated and connected leading up to the event.

Kings Mountain NC, Attending the Brattonsville Ride MEMBERS ONLY (June 20, 2026)

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Ride Out Time: 10:30 AM (please arrive early and be ready to ride!)

Saddle up, Cowgirls! Join us for a beautiful day on the Walt Schrader Trails at Historic Brattonsville.

These scenic, well-maintained horse trails are only open to riders on the third Saturday of each month, making this a special opportunity to explore the grounds on horseback. Enjoy peaceful countryside, shaded paths, and about 6–8 miles of riding—perfect for a relaxed and social day in the saddle.

Whether you're coming for the ride, the views, or the fellowship, it’s always a great day when Cowgirls get together!

Reminder: Please sign up on Wild Apricot to stay in the communication loop and receive any updates leading up to the ride.

Kings Mountain NC Cowgirl Round-up at Crave! MEMBERS & GUESTS (June 21, 2026)

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Cowgirls, it’s time to round up the crew for a fun afternoon of laughs, food, and great company! Join the 40 Something Cowgirls of Kings Mountain for our June Cowgirl Round Up at Crave!

Date: Sunday, June 21st Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Location: Crave, Kings Mountain

Come enjoy a relaxed afternoon with your fellow Cowgirls—try your hand at axe throwing, enjoy a delicious menu, sip on your favorite drinks, and most importantly, spend time together making memories.

Heads Up! Closed-toe shoes are required for axe throwing!

Whether you're throwing axes or just there for the food and fellowship, this is the perfect way to unwind together.

Cowgirls—please be sure to register in the Wild Apricot app so we can keep everyone in the loop!

Kings Mountain NC, Camp & Ride Deep Creek Horse Camp MEMBERS ONLY (June 23, 2026)

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Cowgirls… it’s time to saddle up for the mountains! We’re heading to beautiful Bryson City to camp and ride in the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Think cool mountain mornings, rushing creeks, shady forest trails, and miles upon miles of riding with your favorite crew.

This is one of those trips that fills your soul and your camera roll.

Camp Details

• 30-amp electric & water hookups • $35/night campsite + $10/night 10x10 stalls • Clean bathhouse with showers & toilets • Rental travel trailers available (no LQ? no problem!) • No stud horses permitted • Deep Creek runs right by camp — bring water clothes/shoes to cool off after a ride!

The campground is just one mile from the Deep Creek trailhead and offers access to nearly 400 miles of trails with five different trailheads in the park. Even better? Camp provides trailers to haul our horses so we can explore different areas of the mountains.

Shoes or boots are highly recommended — happy horses make happy cowgirls!

What To Do

• Call or text James at 828-736-1270 to confirm site/stall availability for June 24–28 • Visit www.deepcreekhorsecamp.com to download the registration form and send it in with your deposit • Register your attendance on Wild Apricot—you want to be in on any updates! • Watch for our Facebook thread to coordinate rides, meals, and all the fun details

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (July 09, 2026)

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 12:00:00 GMT

A unique opportunity to continue and improve your horsemanship, while challenging yourself and your equine partner to become a Certified Member of the York County Sherriff's Office Mounted Search and Rescue Team! Training Sessions are held twice monthly, generally at 8 am on the second Thursday and Saturday and lasts about 3-4 hrs. Attendants MUST be pre-vetted by the Sherriff's Office prior to bringing their horse for training, but auditors are ALWAYS welcome. Come learn about what it takes to join the Team! (we recommend bringing chairs and water) Please note: You must live/board within one hour of York County in order to qualify for certification/ training with this Mounted Search and Rescue unit.

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (July 11, 2026)

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Kings Mountain NC, Cowgirl Pool Party at Queen Joelle's MEMBERS ONLY (July 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Cowgirls, it’s time to kick back, cool off, and enjoy a summer afternoon together! Join the 40 Something Cowgirls of Kings Mountain for a Pool Party at Queen Joelle’s house—the perfect way to relax, laugh, and soak up some sunshine with great company.

Date: Saturday, July 18th Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Location: 406 Unity Church Rd, Kings Mountain, NC

Come ready to unwind poolside, enjoy good conversation, and make some fun summer memories with your fellow Cowgirls!

What to Bring: • Swimsuit & towel • Your favorite snack or drink

• If you would like to bring a dish to share, that would be appreciated! • Chair or float if you’d like • Sunscreen

This day is all about relaxing, connecting, and enjoying time together—no agenda, just good vibes and great company!

Cowgirls—please register in the Wild Apricot app so we can keep everyone in the loop and plan accordingly!

Let’s make a splash and enjoy a laid-back summer day together!

Kings Mountain NC, Attending the Equine Trail Sports competition in Boone NC (July 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Saddle up, Cowgirls—join us for a fun-filled weekend at beautiful Grandfather Stables, home to Equine Trail Sports! Nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, this venue offers cooler temps, gorgeous views, and a relaxing mountain atmosphere you’ll love. Please visit the website for up to date pricing.

Important Notes

• Early registration = best pricing • $10 increase for onsite registration • $5 ranch fee included per class • Amenities reserved online are paid onsite

Amenities Pricing:

Stalls • Indoor 12x12: $30/night (Fri & Sat) • Outdoor Pens 12x12: $20/night

Paddocks • $30/night (max 2 familiar horses)

Camping • Dry camping: $10/night

Meals • Saturday Lunch: $16

Questions? Contact Lesley Wooten at 828-379-4313 Event Info & Registration: https://www.equinetrailsports.com/event_group/13663/view http://grandfatherstables.com/

COWGIRLS -- Please mark your attendance in the Wild Apricot app to stay updated on any changes or announcements!

Kings Mountain NC, Cowgirls Cool Off at Carrigan Farms MEMBERS ONLY (July 29, 2026)

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Cowgirls, let’s beat the heat and trade our boots for swimsuits! Join the 40 Something Cowgirls of Kings Mountain for a refreshing Open Swim at Carrigan Farms Quarry—it’s one of the most unique swimming spots around!

Date: Wednesday, July 29, 2026 Time Slot: 10:00 AM Location: Carrigan Farms Quarry, Mooresville, NC

Come enjoy a laid-back summer morning swimming in the beautiful natural quarry, relaxing in the sun, and spending time with your fellow Cowgirls. Whether you’re floating, diving, or just soaking up the scenery, it’s the perfect midweek getaway!

Cost: $25 per person Booking: Reserve your day and 10:00 AM time slot online in advance with a nonrefundable $5.00 deposit at https://www.carriganfarms.com/open-swim/ Payment: $20 balance due cash only at the door—no debit or credit cards accepted

No outside food or drink is permitted but they do have a restaurant onsite that is CASH ONLY

What to Bring: • Swimsuit & towel • Water shoes (recommended for rocky areas) • Sunscreen

• Sunglasses/hat

• Towels • Snacks & drinks • Chair or blanket for relaxing

Cowgirls—please register for this event in the Wild Apricot app so we can keep everyone in the loop with any updates or changes. Look for the Facebook messenger thread!

Let’s cool off, have some laughs, and make a splash together!

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (August 06, 2026)

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (August 08, 2026)

Sat, 08 Aug 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Kings Mountain NC, Attending the Southern Magnolia Gypsy Vanner Championship Show (August 27, 2026)

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

What better way to spend the days of August than admiring beautiful, colorful horses! Save the date for this show of the beautiful Gypsy Vanner horse! More information will be made available as it comes! Follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/southernmagnoliagvchamp.

Kings Mountain NC, Attending the Robbie Potter Trail Challenge (August 28, 2026)

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Join us for the 3rd Annual RPH Trail Obstacle Clinic & Competition—a 2-day experience focused on building confidence, improving skills, and strengthening the partnership with your horse.

Day 1: Arena fundamentals + ride out to practice obstacles at your own pace Day 2: Independent trail obstacle competition

Limited to 12 riders All levels welcome Auditors are FREE

Fees: • Clinic: $275 ($100 deposit required) paid to RPH • Competition: $40 per horse paid to RPH • Facility Fee: $40 (both days, paid on-site) paid at the barn upon arrival • Stalls: $25/night (inside) | $15/night (outside) (shavings not included) • Optional stall cleaning: $10

How to Register: Register with Robbie Potter Horsemanship (RPH) at https://robbiepotter.com/springmaid-mountain-resort-august-competition. Contact Lee Hardin at 828-773-6075

Contact Springmaid Mountain Resort for lodging/campsites at 828-765-2353 or email info@springmaidmountain.com or visit their website at www.springmaidmountain.com

Kings Mountain NC Attending National Mounted Police Coll (September 06, 2026)

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Join us at The Kentucky Horse Park and attend the National Mounted Police Colloquium and Civilian Sensory Clinics! The Colloquium (Tuesday through Friday) is mainly for mounted police officers and members of civilian mounted search & rescue teams and will feature clinics and the competitions. National and international instructors are brought in to instruct both police and civilians in various types of training to include: equitation, jumping, crowd control, and sensory techniques. Training is always conducted in a controlled environment geared towards improving the confidence of both the horse and rider.

The Civilian Sensory Clinics are individual clinics on Saturday and Sunday and are feature national and international instructors who provide obstacle, sensory and equitation training for horse and rider.

There are campsites with electric and horse stalls available, as well as nearby hotels.

check out https://kyhorsepark.com/event/national-mounted-police-colloqium/

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (September 17, 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (September 19, 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Kings Mountain NC, Attending Leaves, Lattes & Leather **MEMBERS & GUESTS (September 19, 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Mark Your Calendars, Cowgirls for Leaves, Lattes, & Leather hosted by the Union Horse Expo!

Saturday, September 19, 2026 Cross Creek Arena – Wingate, NC Parking: $5 per car

Enjoy a full day of: Horse demonstrations & clinics Equestrian shopping & tack vendors Food trucks Fun with fellow horse lovers

Whether you ride every weekend or simply love the horse life, this is a great chance to spend the day with the equine community and fellow cowgirls!

Search for “Union Horse Expo” on Facebook or Google for more event details and updates.

Cowgirls! Be sure to register your attendance on Wild Apruicot to help us stay on top of who’s coming and keep everyone updated!

Kings Mountain NC, Camp and Ride at Croft (MEMBERS ONLY) (October 07, 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Call all Cowgirls! Let’s end summer on the right foot with a relaxing and adventure-filled weekend at beautiful Croft State Park! With spacious campsites, horse stalls, and miles of scenic trails, it’s the perfect setting to unwind, ride, and connect with friends.

What to Expect:

Campsites with water & electric hookups Horse stalls (reserved separately) Gorgeous wooded trails ready to explore Evenings around the campsite sharing stories and laughs

Reservation Details: Call 866-345-7275 or reserve online at: reserve.southcarolinaparks.com/croft A current Coggins is required for all horses

Cowgirls--Please be sure to register on Wild Apricot so we know you’re coming and can keep you updated. And don’t forget to watch the Facebook thread to coordinate meals, riding groups, and fun extras!

We can’t wait to ride, relax, and make memories together at Croft

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (October 08, 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (October 10, 2026)

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Kings Mountain NC, Teeth n' Sheath Day!! **MEMBERS ONLY (October 17, 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

We’re excited to welcome back Barbara Brooks with Total Balance Equine Dentistry and David Kelley!

Cost: $100 per horse.

This includes:

Dental exam and float Sheath cleaning for geldings Teat cleaning/bean check for mares

To sign up or ask questions, please text or Facebook message Joelle Wells. Appointment times will be assigned after registration—this is by appointment only!

AK Performance & Wellness will be on site offering Magna Wave and Red Light Therapy for $70 per horse. Please let Joelle know if you are interested in this also!

These therapies can help support recovery, circulation, muscle relaxation, and overall wellness. Feel free to visit AK Performance & Wellness's Facebook page to learn more about their services.

Taking care of our equine partners from nose to tail is one of the best investments we can make in their health, comfort, and performance.

This event is limited to 40 Something Cowgirls members only, and appointment spots are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early.

Kings Mountain, NC Camp and Ride Lee State Park (October 24, 2026)

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Saddle Up, Cowgirls! Join your fellow Cowgirls for crisp October days filled with great rides, relaxation, and plenty of fun at beautiful Lee State Park. Enjoy miles of scenic trails that wind through diverse and peaceful terrain.

Equestrian Campground Amenities: • 30 & 50 amp electrical hookups • Water and sewer connections • Two horse corrals at every campsite

Cowgirls — please register for this event on Wild Apricot. We will also have a Facebook thread to coordinate information, meals, and ride times.

To reserve your campsite: Call the SC Parks Reservation Line: 866-345-7275 Or book online: reserve.southcarolinaparks.com/lee

Kings Mountain NC, Attending the Trail Obstacle Challenge (October 29, 2026)

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Come challenge your horse with a variety of obstacle courses, created by Equine Trail Sports! Hosted at The Piedmont Saddle Club, there is full camping as well as stalls available.

Below stalls & camping are available, please reserve when registering.

Outdoor arena with lights
Covered arena
50 Horse stalls
Shavings available
Round pen
RV/Living quarter hook up with water and electric
Dry Camping allowed
Heated and cooled clubhouse
Indoor bathrooms

Event Details

Saturday

Obstacle Trail (OT) – a relaxing short trail ride with judged obstacles along the trail and possibly in camp. All riding disciplines are welcome.

In Hand (IH) – a dismounted event in an arena/field, halter and lead rope preferred. All equines welcome – any size, breed, and age.

Sunday

Obstacle Course (OC) – a mounted event in an arena/field. A saddle (treeless included) and headstall with reins are required. All riding disciplines are welcome.

visit www.equinetrailsports.com and check under events for sign up info.

Kings Mountain NC, Halloween Horseback, Bonfire, Boots and Boos (MEMBERS ONLY) (October 31, 2026)

Sat, 31 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

When witches ride and pumpkins glow, the Cowgirls of Kings Mountain know where to go! Join us for a hauntingly good Halloween filled with scenic trails, crackling bonfires, smoky BBQ, and just enough “boots & boos” to keep the spirits high.

Morning Ride Details at Kings Mountain State Park

· Meet: 10:00 AM

· Ride Out: 10:30 AM

· Location: Equestrian Parking Lot on Apple Road

· Hoofwear: Kings Mountain is a little rocky, so boots or sturdy shoes are recommended.

Fall is a gorgeous time of year to ride — crisp air, changing leaves, and great company.

Evening BBQ & Bonfire As the sun sets, we’ll gather for BBQ and a glowing bonfire under the autumn sky. Bring a chair, wrap up in your favorite flannel, and enjoy laughter, warm food, flickering flames, and just enough Halloween mischief to keep things interesting.

Coming from Out of Town? No worries — we’d love to have our far-away Cowgirls join us!

Kings Mountain State Park offers an equestrian campground with:

· Equestrian sites and corrals for horses

· 20/30/50 amp service

· Community water (not at every campsite)

· Several water spigots throughout the campground for horses

It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Kings Mountain together!

Cowgirls — please register your attendance on Wild Apricot to stay in the loop! We’ll also start a Facebook thread for communication and updates.

Kings Mountain NC, Leatherwood Camping, NCCA Show & Ride (MEMBERS ONLY) (November 04, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Third National Cowboy Challenge Association (NCCA) Show at Leatherwood!

The National Cowboy Challenge Association is an Australian non-profit organization dedicated to building a willing and trusting partnership between horse and rider. Competitors navigate challenging obstacle courses designed to test horsemanship, precision, and trust — all performed at speed.

Riders of all skill levels and horses of all breeds are welcome!

NCCA Show Dates: November 7–8, 2026 Learn more about the NCCA here: https://www.nationalcowboychallengeassociation.com

Reserve Your Spot: Contact Leatherwood Mountains Resort to book horse stalls, camp sites or a book a cabin with some friends! https://leatherwoodmountains.com/equine/stables/ or 336-973-5044 A HARD COPY OF YOUR COGGINS IS REQUIRED FOR THE OUTSIDE OF YOUR STALL.

Spots fill quickly — reserve early!

Just Want to Trail Ride? Come Anyway! If you'd like to come enjoy the beautiful trails of Leatherwood, we’d love to have you. Some Cowgirls are coming just for the trail rides — no competition required!

Cowgirls! Stay Connected Please register your attendance on the Wild Apricot app to stay in the loop. We’ll post a Facebook thread prior to the event — don’t miss it!

Kings Mountain NC, Attending the Weekend of Worship in Uwharrie NC (November 05, 2026)

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Come together with fellow equestrians for a meaningful weekend of worship, fellowship, and trail time at 4B Farm! They are welcoming Jonathan Lotz, grandson of Billy Graham, as a special guest.

More event details coming soon—stay tuned!

Trail Tip: The Uwharrie terrain can be quite rocky, so horse boots or shoes are highly recommended.

Campsites and stalls fill up fast for this popular event! To reserve yours, please contact Mark or Kathy at 4B Farm: 910-606-1052

Cowgirls—don’t forget to register your attendance on Wild Apricot to stay in the loop for updates. We’ll also have a group Facebook thread for attendees to connect and share plans!

Kings Mountain NC, Attending the Scavenger Hunt for BCH of Uwharrie (November 11, 2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Cowgirls! Put your treasure-hunting skills to the test and join us for an exciting scavenger hunt through the beautiful Uwharrie National Forest!

The Backcountry Horsemen of Uwharrie (BCHU) is a nonprofit organization that works with the National Forest Service to ensure Uwharrie trails remain open and accessible for the equestrian community. This annual scavenger hunt is a fun way to help raise funds to maintain and preserve those trails for horseback riders.

Trail Tip: Uwharrie terrain can be quite rocky—horse boots or shoes are highly recommended!

This is a favorite annual trip for the 40 Something Cowgirls of Kings Mountain, and we always have an amazing time!

To reserve your campsite and stall, contact 4B Farm at 910-606-1052. Don’t forget to register your attendance on Wild Apricot to stay in the loop for event updates. We’ll also have a group Facebook thread for all attendees!

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (November 12, 2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Kings Mountain, NC Attending Mounted Search & Rescue Training (November 14, 2026)

Sat, 14 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT