How to Build a Simple Wooden Round Horse Corral
- 1). Measure out the space you want to dedicate to your corral. Make sure you choose an area that is relatively level--this will make it a lot easier to work with your horse. The size you will need will depend on what you want to do with the corral. If you plan to use the corral as a round pen for training young horses, you may want to keep it relatively small, with a diameter of 50 to 60 feet. If you are using the corral for turnout and regular riding, it is best to give it a diameter of at least several hundred feet.
- 2). Use a hand or automatic post-hole digger to dig the first hole for your corral. Make sure you go down at least six inches--if the posts are not deep enough they will not be secure.
- 3). Set your pole in place and make sure it is straight. Use a level to make sure the pole is set properly. Mix your concrete and shovel it into the hole. Allow the concrete to harden to secure the pole.
- 4). Measure eight feet from the first pole and use your post-hole digger to dig the next hole. Set the pole in place, make sure it is level, then pour the concrete into the hole and allow it to harden.
- 5). Place a 2-inch-by-8-foot piece of lumber on the first pole and nail it in place. If you have a helper, ask her to hold the other end of the piece, otherwise place the other end on a saw horse or other support. Nail the other end of the lumber to the other post, then place a second 2-inch-by-8-foot piece of lumber a few feet down from the first. Continue to put the posts in place and nail the boards in place until the corral is finished.
- 6). Attach a standard metal gate to the last portion of the corral. Mount the hinges, secure them in place, and then attach the gate. It is much easier and much less expensive to purchase a standard 8-foot gate and put it in place than it is to build your own.
