The "Remuda Camp" started, as best anyone can recall, in 1948 which was two years after the Desert Caballeros Ride began. The number of riders who camped together began to grow. The name came quite naturally as these riders originally were most usually guests of the old "Remuda Ranch" on the outskirts of Wickenburg. The "Remuda Camp" has grown over the years to its current 60 plus members with amenities not normally found in camps.

In 1998, the "Remuda Camp" celebrated its 50^th anniversary. In so doing, western artist Mike McFarland was commissioned to do a closed edition bronze desk piece. This is available through Mark Forbes at the Wickenburg Gallery and at a price that should be affordable for all riders. Once the fifty pieces have been cast, the mold will be broken and they will not longer be available. Mike is also the artist who was commissioned by the Desert Caballeros to do the larger main camp 50^th anniversary piece, which is a signed and numbered edition of fifty pieces as well and released in 1996.

A "Nuevo" is a rider on his first, second or third year and identified as "N-1," "N-2" or "N-3". Sponsorship by a "Member" or Desert Caballeros "Director" is required. Desert Caballeros Directors should not be confused with Remuda Camp Directors.

A "Green Striper," "Greenie," "Pigeon" and "N-1" denote a first year rider. These riders are subject to a bit of "hazing" though done in good taste and are encouraged to participate. No rider is ever compelled to do anything that they are not willing to do and their sponsors and tenured riders are encouraged to explain the duties and activities. One of the main responsibilities of first year riders is to help around camp, gather firewood and provide "bedside" coffee and orange juice to the other riders of the Remuda Camp in the morning. First year riders are also asked to submit a resume that would fit such an occasion, (humor necessary), and are introduced on the first night out upon arrival in camp. Our Remuda Camp "Oath of Office" is also administered at this time and is a nice remembrance.

A rider who has attained "Amigo" status does not have to have a sponsor and is invited back automatically unless they embarrass or disgrace themselves. Should that occur, the Desert Caballeros Board of Directors will take appropriate action.

A rider who has attained "Member" status has been invited to join the Desert Caballeros in that capacity. The Desert Caballeros has a limited number of members and one must wait for a vacancy and invitation. A one-time membership fee is required. Other capacities such as "Guest" are identified by the initial "G," "Wranglers" by the letter "W" and so on.

The "Pigeon Lieutenant" is the individual selected by the first year riders and who becomes the mentor for new riders the following year. This individual is recognized for their service with a leather placard.

The "Pigeon Captain" is selected on the annual ride at our camp meeting by all riders. This individual is most usually the "Pigeon Lieutenant" on the current ride and then serves the following year to assist the new "Pigeon Lieutenant" in his responsibilities and is recognized for their service with a leather placard.

"Pigeon of the Year" is a first year rider selected on the annual ride at our camp meeting by all riders and by secret ballot. This is the individual who has shown great camp spirit, been most helpful, willing to participate and is recognized for their efforts with a leather placard.

"Remudero of the Year" is anyone from the Remuda Camp. The selection is made by the "Pigeons" or first year riders to recognize the individual who they feel has been most helpful to them and contributed to the overall enjoyment on the ride and is recognized for their efforts with a leather placard.

The "Remuda Camp Top Hand Award" was originally known as the "Remudero Rancher of the Year" and is selected on the annual ride at our comp meeting by all riders and by secret ballot. This recognized the person felt to be a best example of a Remuda Rider for their contributions and sometimes length of service. A bronze of our departed friend Roy cooper mounted on a wood base is presented to this rider as a traveling trophy and who shall return it the next year so that the recognition may be passed on.

The "Remuda Camp Directors" are selected on the annual ride at our camp meeting by the current Board of Directors. Any rider who is interested in becoming a Director is encouraged and should make it know to the Board of Directors who will give such interest all consideration. Two Directors are selected on even number years and three on odd number years. Following the election, the directors select a "Camp Boss" who customarily serves for a two-year term. The outgoing "Camp Boss" continues to serve as "Camp Boss Emeritus" for one additional year.

The "Sophie Hill Ride" is an optional Remuda Camp activity that takes place on the Saturday before the main ride. This ride leaves at 10:00 a.m. and follows a "Tailgate Party" which begins about 8:30 a.m. This is a nice opportunity to meet new riders and renew friendships. Families are welcome and is considered a co-ed activity. It is recommended that children under the age of twelve do not ride. Non-riders can follow the ground crew to the top of Sophie Hill by vehicle. Lunch is served and return to Wickenburg is usually about 4:00 p.m. at the latest.

The "Remuda Camp Dinner" is held on Saturday evening before the main ride. This is a family activity, though children usually do not attend. The dinner is a nice opportunity for socializing. The activities include a raffle and auction of various donated items with all proceeds going to the Remuda Camp fund to purchase equipment that is needed or has to be replaced keeping our individual Remuda Camp fees down. All riders are encouraged to participate and donate.

The "El Presidente’s Party" is held poolside on Sunday at the Rancho de los Caballeros for all camps and riders. This features a very nice array of finger foods, drinks, entertainment and a professional photographer to remember the occasion. Dress for this activity varies from Levi’s to Sunday best to "Western Wild Rag, Look Your Fanciest Best and Most Outrageous!"

Look forward to seeing you and a great ride.