THE WATEREE HOUNDS
Preserving Tradition, Building Community, Protecting the Land
ESTABLISHED 2020Our Story
Founded in 2020 by passionate fox hunters from the Midlands of South Carolina, Wateree Hounds has quickly become the heart of Camden's equestrian community. What began as a vision to preserve fox hunting tradition has grown into a registered pack under the Masters of Foxhounds Association and a nonprofit organization dedicated to land conservation and community engagement.
With over 300 years of combined hunting experience among our leadership—including five retired Masters—we honor the timeless traditions of mounted fox hunting while maintaining a pack of American foxhounds, the very breed that George Washington hunted with at Mount Vernon. Our professional huntsman Tony Gammell, with 30 years of experience, leads our pack across over 25,000 acres of carefully managed hunting territory.
This connection to our nation's founding traditions runs deep, as we champion modern conservation efforts across Kershaw County's historic landscapes while preserving America's original foxhunting heritage for future generations.
Our Mission
Our mission extends far beyond the hunt field. We honor and sustain the cherished tradition of mounted fox hunting while serving as stewards of Camden's natural and cultural heritage. Through comprehensive breeding and training of American foxhounds, land conservation efforts, and community engagement, we ensure that these pursuits and the lands that enable them are preserved and protected for future generations.
Preserve & Promote Tradition
We honor and sustain the cherished tradition of mounted fox hunting through the comprehensive study, breeding, raising, and training of American foxhounds. Our pack represents a direct connection to our nation's founding traditions, maintaining the very breed that George Washington hunted with at Mount Vernon. Through careful stewardship and dedication, we ensure these time-honored practices continue to thrive.
Protect Land & Heritage
We are deeply committed to safeguarding the natural landscapes and historic equine properties in the greater Camden area, ensuring their resilience against development, destruction, and neglect. By opening, clearing, and meticulously mapping trails on our hunting territories, we provide rare public access to these treasured lands while maintaining the ecological balance and promoting wildlife habitat conservation.
Educate & Build Community
As educators and community builders, we offer comprehensive programs including over 70 annual fox hunts, summer hound exercises open to all, educational seminars, and public events. Through our publication "Full Cry" and initiatives like the Wateree Cup and Sporting Week, we share knowledge, foster appreciation for equestrian traditions, and create opportunities for people from all backgrounds to experience the beauty and heritage of the sporting life. Under the guidance of professional huntsman Tony Gammell, we ensure these traditions are passed on to future generations.
Our Heritage
American Roots
Connected to George Washington's foxhunting traditions at Mount Vernon, we maintain the very breed of American foxhounds that defined our nation's sporting heritage. Our pack represents an unbroken link to America's founding traditions.
Camden's Legacy
Situated in the heart of Kershaw County's historic landscapes, we champion modern conservation efforts while preserving America's original foxhunting heritage. Through our publication "Full Cry" and events like the Colonial Cup appearances, we share our traditions with thousands.
Future Forward
As a registered MFHA pack and nonprofit organization, we ensure these traditions thrive through public engagement, land preservation, and education. Tony Gammell, our professional huntsman, along with our volunteer programs and community initiatives guarantee our heritage remains accessible to all.
Our Community
From our 70+ annual fox hunts to the prestigious Wateree Cup Polo Classic, from summer hound exercises open to all to our signature Sporting Week, we create opportunities for riders and supporters alike to experience the joy of tradition, the beauty of our landscapes, and the bonds of community that define the sporting life in Camden.
Each time we take to the field with our American hounds, we continue a tradition that connects us not only to Camden's sporting heritage but to the very roots of American foxhunting itself. Our weekly summer exercises, led by professional huntsman Tony Gammell, invite the public to explore our trails, while our educational seminars and "Full Cry" magazine share our knowledge and passion with the broader community.
As a registered nonprofit and member of the Masters of Foxhounds Association, we maintain the highest standards of sportsmanship, conservation, and community engagement. Whether participating in local parades, hosting educational clinics, or opening our lands for public enjoyment, we strive to make our traditions accessible to all.
Join Our Legacy
Experience the timeless tradition of American fox hunting and become part of Camden's vibrant equestrian community.
Contact us at info@watereehounds.com