1836 Chuckwagon Races

Born out of a desire to keep Texas history and traditions alive, the 1836 Chuckwagon Races draws a crowd of more than 5,000—plus 2,000 horses and mules—each year to Diamond B Ranch in Neches, just outside of Palestine.

The race, which will take place April 21–23 this year, draws competitors from across the country, and the ranch encourages everyone to come early—the site is open for camping a week prior. This is no ordinary camping experience, however; the week offers various frontier-style activities, and motor vehicles are strictly prohibited—traveling around the campsite is limited to horses and wagons. Activities include trail rides, Dutch oven cooking classes, cowboy poetry, barn dances, live music and cowboy church.