23 Horseback Riding In ILLINOIS (Easy, Exciting, & Daring)
Horses can be scary, primarily when you only focus on their kicking ability.
Well, for one, they are pretty strong animals, but that should not be the only way of thinking about horses.
Do recognize their transporting capabilities!
Riding one is a different story, which is precisely this article’s gist!
See, horseback riding brings a sensation you will not feel on any other kind of vehicle or any animal.
So, if you currently reside in Illinois or within its vicinity, don’t miss out on these spots that are perfect for experiencing your first-ever horseback ride or getting addicted to it.
Do not neglect your cats and dogs after riding one!
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Zoos in Illinois.
Horseback Riding in Galena, Illinois
1. Riverview Ranch and Resort (Diverse Accommodations)
Riverview Ranch and Resort is a luxurious getaway in the heart of nature.
The resort offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life as the view of nature is all over the place including green forests and small hills.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination, Riverview Ranch and Resort has something for everyone.
Accommodations at the resort range from cozy cabins to spacious lodges, ensuring that guests have the perfect space to call home during their stay.
Each unit has all the modern amenities you need to feel comfortable, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the resort offers a range of activities to help you connect with nature.
Take a horseback ride through the picturesque countryside, go fishing in one of the many nearby streams, or hike to explore the surrounding forests.
Of course, the horseback ride is the highlight, but the activities can complement your experience even better!
Address: 2689 S River Rd, Galena, IL 61036
2. Shenandoah Riding Center (Varied Riding Options)
Shenandoah Riding Center is a horseback riding facility located in the rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley.
Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a first-time rider, Shenandoah Riding Center has everything you need to experience the thrill of horseback riding.
The center offers a variety of riding options, including trail rides, arena rides, and lesson programs.
Moreover, the experienced and knowledgeable instructors at the center are dedicated to helping riders of all levels improve their skills and have a great time.
For those new to horseback riding, the center offers beginner lessons covering everything from horse handling to riding techniques.
In addition to riding, Shenandoah Riding Center offers various other equestrian activities.
These include horse shows, pony rides for younger children, and horse camping trips.
The center also has several well-trained horses with unique personalities and abilities.
This facility will surely satisfy your cravings for some horseback riding experience and horses altogether!
Address: 200 N Brodrecht Rd, Galena, IL 61036
3. Brixen Ivy Ranch (Scenic Adventure)
Brixen Ivy Ranch is a premier ranch and resorts in the heart of the scenic Brixen Valley.
The ranch, nestled among rolling hills and towering trees, offers guests adventure, luxury, and relaxation.
It provides a variety of horse-related activities, such as summer camps, trail rides, and horseback riding lessons.
All ages and levels of riders find it to be a popular destination.
Also, for those seeking adventure, the ranch offers various outdoor activities, including horseback riding, hiking, and even fishing.
The experienced staff at the ranch can help you plan your activities, whether you’re looking for a leisurely trail ride or a challenging hike through the mountains.
It is a complete package for adventurous heads who want to go horseback riding!
Address: 01 Bouthillier Street, Galena, IL 61036
4. Haywire Farms (Seasonal Bounty)
With its wide variety of seasonal produce, including blueberries, pumpkins, and Christmas trees, Haywire Farm, a charming family-owned farm, provides visitors with a distinctive experience.
Visitors can spend a fun-filled day at the farm, hand-picking their preferred fruits and vegetables and exploring the fields and orchards.
Kids will enjoy being able to feed farm animals like chickens, pigs, and goats.
Additionally, the farm sells a variety of delectable jams, preserves, and honey made from its produce.
The farm is transformed into a fun pumpkin patch with a corn maze and hayrides during the fall.
Come winter, visitors can select their Christmas tree and take home a piece of the farm’s holiday spirit.
With its welcoming atmosphere and bountiful harvests, Haywire Farm is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of the countryside and a fun-filled day with family and friends.
Address: 4543 W Longhollow Rd, Galena, IL 61036
5. Horsepower Farm LLC (Countryside Charm)
Horsepower Farm LLC is a horse farm and riding facility located in the heart of the countryside.
Whether a seasoned equestrian or a first-time rider, Horsepower Farm offers everything, you need to experience the thrill of horseback riding.
The farm has a large stable of well-trained horses with unique personalities and abilities.
Guests can choose from various riding options, including trail rides, arena rides, and lesson programs.
The experienced and knowledgeable instructors at the farm are dedicated to helping riders of all levels improve their skills and have a great time.
In addition to riding, Horsepower Farm also offers a range of other equestrian activities, such as horse shows, horse camping trips, and pony rides for younger children.
The farm also has several well-trained horses with unique personalities and abilities.
Address: 3431 W Longhollow Rd, Galena, IL 61036
Also see our article on Skiing in Illinois.
Horseback Riding in Rockford, Illinois
1. Forest Preserves Of Winnebago County (Natural Oasis)
In northern Illinois, the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County provide visitors with a stunning and varied natural setting to explore.
Forests, prairies, wetlands, and rivers are just a few ecosystems in the preserves.
Various outdoor pursuits are available to visitors, including hiking, biking, fishing, camping, boating, and wildlife viewing.
There is plenty of room to explore and take in the preserves’ stunning natural surroundings thanks to their miles of trails and waterways.
Wildlife enthusiasts can see many creatures, including bald eagles, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and songbirds.
The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County provide a variety of camping areas, including cabins, group campsites, and primitive campsites.
Families can also enjoy the playgrounds and picnic areas nearby.
The preserves also provide a range of educational activities for visitors of all ages, such as nature hikes, birdwatching, and conservation education.
They are committed to maintaining and protecting the environment.
Hence, apart from that they support this goal with several ongoing conservation projects and initiatives.
The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County have something to offer everyone, whether they want to stroll through the forest or engage in an active outdoor adventure.
Address: 5500 Northrock Dr, Rockford, IL 61103
2. Lockwood Park & Trailside Equestrian Centre (Safe Riding Experience)
Lockwood Park & Trailside Equestrian Centre is a park and horseback riding facility located in the heart of the countryside.
The park offers visitors various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.
It is a state-of-the-art facility that provides a safe and enjoyable riding experience for equestrians of all levels.
The center has a large stable of well-trained horses.
It offers a variety of riding options, including trail rides, arena rides, and lesson programs.
The experienced and knowledgeable instructors at the center are dedicated to helping riders improve their skills and have a great time.
In addition to riding, Lockwood Park offers a range of other outdoor activities, such as bird watching, picnicking, and fishing.
The park is also home to several playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a popular destination for families and groups.
Address: 5201 Safford Rd, Rockford, IL 61101
3. New Moon Farm (Scenic Horse Farm)
New Moon Farm is a horse farm and riding facility in a peaceful and scenic setting.
The farm offers a range of activities for horse lovers of all ages, including horseback riding lessons, trail rides, and horse camping trips.
Also, the stable at New Moon Farm is home to various well-trained horses, each with unique personalities and abilities.
The experienced and knowledgeable instructors at the farm are dedicated to helping riders of all levels improve their skills and have a great time.
In addition to riding, New Moon Farm also offers a range of other equestrian activities, such as horse shows, pony rides for younger children, and horse-drawn carriage rides.
The farm also has several well-trained horses with unique personalities and abilities.
At New Moon Farm, the safety and comfort of riders and horses are paramount.
The farm uses high-quality riding equipment; all horses are well-cared for and kept in top condition.
To sum up, the facilities are clean and well-maintained, and someone is always on hand to assist riders and answer any questions.
Address: 6215 Safford Rd, Rockford, IL 61101
Also see our article on Playgrounds in Illinois.
Horseback Riding in Chicago, Illinois
1. A Ranch 394 (Urban Trail Rides)
The horseback riding establishment A Ranch 394 is situated in Chicago, Illinois.
It offers trail rides through the nearby forest preserve and riding lessons for adults and kids.
The trails meander through lovely wooded areas and natural settings with stunning Fox River views.
Many horses are available at the ranch, ranging from horses suitable for beginning riders to more experienced horses for riders with more experience.
A Ranch 394 also provides pony rides for young children and birthday party packages that include pony rides, a petting zoo, and riding lessons and trail rides.
The staff at the ranch is welcoming and knowledgeable, and they have a genuine passion for sharing their love of horses with others and enhancing the enjoyment of riders of all skill levels.
A Ranch 394 offers a memorable horseback riding experience in a stunning natural setting, whether you’re a novice or seasoned rider.
Address: 1465 Glenwood Lansing Rd, Chicago Heights, IL 60411
2. A C Livery (Year-Round Engagement)
In Chicago, Illinois, a riding school and equestrian facility called A C Livery is perfect for those who have yet to experience riding horses.
Lessons on horses are available at the facility for riders of all skill levels, from novices to experts.
They provide riding instruction for all ages, including kids and adults.
A C Livery also provides trail rides, pony rides, and horse leasing in addition to riding lessons.
They also provide year-round horse shows, clinics, and a summer program for kids, including horse camps.
Riders can work with knowledgeable trainers at A C Livery to develop their abilities, self-assurance, and enjoyment of horseback riding.
Both indoor and outdoor riding arenas are available at the facility, and some trails lead through a nearby forest preserve.
Address: 5807 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60647
3. Pullman Stables (Historic Stables)
A horse boarding and training facility called Pullman Stables is located in Chicago, Illinois, about 25 miles southwest of Chicago.
It provides various equestrian services, including summer camps, boarding, training, and riding lessons.
The facility has several pastures, an expansive indoor riding arena, outdoor riding arenas, and a cross-country eventing course awaiting you to unlock the fun it has to offer.
Pullman Stables collaborates with neighborhood nonprofits to offer equine therapy to those in need.
They also provide a therapeutic riding program for people with physical, emotional, and cognitive disabilities: a facility that can cater to all!
The stable has a reputation for having knowledgeable and welcoming staff and a welcoming and diverse community of riders and equestrian enthusiasts.
Address: 509 E 112th St, Chicago, IL 60628
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Horseback Riding in Springfield, Illinois
1. Riverside Stables (Equestrian Variety)
In St. Charles, Illinois, a well-known equestrian facility called Riverside Stables provides services like horseback riding lessons, boarding, training, and shows.
The stable has two indoor arenas, two outdoor arenas, and a cross-country course.
It is located on 45 acres of lovely land.
With riding lessons for riders of all ages and abilities, from novice to expert, Riverside Stables offers a warm and welcoming environment.
The facility employs passionate trainers and instructors committed to helping riders develop self-assurance and equestrian skills.
Riverside Stables provides a range of additional services in addition to riding lessons, such as horse leasing, summer camps, and horse shows.
Throughout the year, the stable hosts some events where riders can demonstrate their abilities and pick the brains of eminent trainers and clinicians.
Riders can participate in events like dressage, jumping, and eventing at Riverside Stables, which hosts several horse shows.
Address: 2310 Chinchilla Ln, Springfield, IL 62702
2. Graham Ranch LLC (Lesson Horses Program)
A family-run horse farm called Graham Ranch LLC can be found in Rochester, Illinois, not far from Springfield, the state’s capital.
It provides training, trail rides, horse boarding, and lessons for riding horses.
More so, the ranch, which has been in business for more than a century, provides a variety of outdoor pursuits, such as horseback riding, hunting, and fishing!
With 45,000 acres of picturesque countryside surrounding it, the ranch offers plenty of outdoor space.
It is a beautiful destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds because it has a variety of landscapes, such as grassy meadows, rolling hills, and rugged mountains.
The “lesson horses” program at Graham Ranch is one of its distinctive qualities.
To accommodate riders of all experience levels, they have various horses explicitly trained for use in riding lessons.
The ranch also has a sizable indoor riding arena that enables year-round training regardless of the weather.
Address: 4236 E IL-54, Springfield, IL 62707
Also see our article on Pumpkin Patches in Illinois.
Horseback Riding in Pekin, Illinois
1. Blazin’ A Trail Riding and Boarding, Inc (Family-Run Haven)
In Grant Park, Illinois, there is a family-run horse farm and riding school called Blazin’ A Trail Riding and Boarding, Inc.
The facility, located in the middle of the Kankakee River Valley, provides horse enthusiasts of all ages with a tranquil and beautiful setting.
From novice to expert riders, Blazin’ A Trail offers horseback riding lessons.
Knowledgeable and committed teachers offer their students a secure and enjoyable learning environment.
The school provides training, boarding, and leasing services for those who want to enjoy owning horses without committing full-time.
Ponies for the little ones are among the well-trained horses available for lessons at the riding school.
Riders can benefit from their lessons year-round, in good weather or bad, thanks to the facilities, which include an indoor riding arena, an outdoor arena, and a round pen.
Children can spend a week learning about and riding horses at the school’s horse camps, which are held during the summer.
Address: 217 McNaughton Park Dr, Pekin, IL 61554
2. Pekin Park District (Public Park Network)
Pekin, Illinois, has a network of public parks called the Pekin Park District.
Thanks to the horseback riding program, people of all ages can ride horses while admiring the area’s stunning scenery.
The 596-acre space, where the equestrian center of the park district is situated, has plenty of room for horseback riding.
It provides residents of Pekin and the surrounding areas with a wide selection of recreational activities, programs, and facilities.
The Mineral Springs Park in Mineral Springs, Illinois, which has an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and picnic areas, is one of the parks managed by the Pekin Park District.
Other well-liked parks in the area include Lick Creek Golf Course, an 18-hole championship course that is open to the public; Dragonland Water Park, a family-friendly water park with water slides, a lazy river, and other aquatic attractions; and McNaughton Park, which has hiking and biking trails, an outdoor amphitheater, and a disc golf course.
Address: 1701 Court St, Pekin, IL 61554
3. Yancey’s Legacy Acres (Family-Friendly Farm)
Visitors can enjoy various activities at the family-run farm in Pekin, Illinois, called Yancey’s Legacy Acres.
Various animals, including horses, ponies, cows, pigs, chickens, and goats, reside on the farm’s 50 acres of land.
Horseback riding excursions are one of Yancey’s Legacy Acres’ main draws.
They offer trail rides for riders of all skill levels, including those who have never ridden.
Riders can get a unique view of nature as the trails to wind through the stunning countryside of central Illinois.
Yancey’s Legacy Acres also provides pony rides for kids, group wagon rides, and horseback riding.
They provide educational tours for school groups and have a petting zoo area where guests can interact with farm animals: it’s a must-try, especially for those who are not used to interacting with animals!
Address: 1500 Brenkman Dr, Pekin, IL 61554
4. Bliss Farms Inc. (High-Quality Produce)
Bliss Farms is committed to providing high-quality, healthy meat products free of hormones, antibiotics, and other harmful additives.
The farm’s animals are raised on a diet of natural grasses and are treated with care and respect throughout their lives.
In addition to its meat products, Bliss Farms also offers a variety of farm-fresh produce, including sweet corn, tomatoes, peppers, and more.
The farm’s produce is grown using sustainable farming practices.
It is harvested at the peak of freshness for maximum flavor and nutrition.
Bliss Farms is open to the public and offers farm tours and a farm stand where visitors can purchase the farm’s products directly.
The farm also participates in several local farmers’ markets and sells its products online for convenient ordering and delivery.
Address: 14157 County Rd 2050 E, Pekin, IL 61554
5. McNaughton Park (Vast Natural Park)
In Pekin, Illinois, there is a lovely natural park called McNaughton Park.
The park’s 850 acres and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities make it a well-liked hangout for families and nature lovers.
Its equestrian trails are in a specific area, offering a secure and regulated setting for horseback riding.
Visiting riders are treated to stunning and varied scenery as the trails wind through the park’s wooded areas, open fields, and along the shore of the nearby river.
Bring your own horse or rent one from the park’s stables are options for visitors.
Moreover, the extensive trail network in McNaughton Park is one of its most well-liked features.
The park is excellent for biking, running, and hiking because it has more than 5 miles of paved and unpaved trails.
Its trails wind through its wetlands, prairies, and woods, creating a beautiful and tranquil setting for outdoor recreation.
Address: 217 McNaughton Park Dr, Pekin, IL 61554
Also see our article on Alpaca Farms in Illinois.
Horseback Riding in La Salle, Illinois
1. Punkin Acre Paints (Distinctive Paint Horses)
Punkin Acre Paints is a family-run farm and equestrian facility in Manhattan, Illinois.
The farm provides various services and events, including camps, birthday parties, pony rides, training, boarding, and lessons for horseback riding.
It is renowned for its devotion to and love of horses, especially Paint Horses, prized for their distinctive and exquisite coats.
A group of knowledgeable trainers and instructors at the farm work with riders of all experience levels, from novice to expert.
Punkin Acre Paints offers trail rides through the picturesque countryside surrounding Manhattan in addition to horseback riding lessons.
Riders can enjoy the area’s natural beauty, which includes fields, woods, and streams.
Children can also learn about horse care and riding while having fun and making new friends at Punkin Acre Paints’ well-liked summer camp program.
Families and horse lovers from the area frequent the farm because of its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Address: 381 N 3179th Rd, La Salle, IL 61301
2. R A Black & Son (Historic Blacksmith Shop)
In La Salle, Illinois, there is a storied blacksmith shop called R.A. Black & Son.
One of the oldest continuously operating blacksmith shops in the U.S., the business was established in 1896 by Richard A. Black and is currently run by his descendants.
A historic structure built in 1896 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 houses the store.
It is a maker of horse-related equipment, thus providing horseback riding talks: making it a feast for horseback riding enthusiasts, not for newbies, though.
Many of the building’s original features, such as wood floors, tin ceilings, and oversized windows, remain.
R.A. Custom metalwork and blacksmithing, including forging, welding, and fabrication, are the areas of expertise of Black & Son.
Additionally, they provide metalworking and blacksmithing classes and workshops where participants can pick up the skills and methods that blacksmiths have used for centuries.
Address: 438 N 33rd Rd, La Salle, IL 61301
3. Crane Herefords (Premium Hereford Cattle)
Crane Herefords is a family-run ranch in La Salle, Illinois.
It is renowned for its high-quality Hereford cattle breeding and production.
The fourth generation of the Crane family is currently in charge of the ranch, which has been in business for over 75 years.
It specializes in breeding and raising premium Hereford cattle, renowned for their excellent meat quality and versatility.
The 400 acres of rolling pastures on the ranch are used to raise cattle naturally and humanely, giving them plenty of space to graze and roam.
It is dedicated to raising high-quality, healthy, and content cattle.
They collaborate with nearby veterinarians to ensure the animals get the best care.
It is a great place to learn, practice, or simply enjoy horseback riding.
Address: 3409 E 5th Rd, La Salle, IL 61301
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Horseback Riding in Willow Springs, Illinois
1. Memory Lane Stables (Horseback Riding Lessons)
Memory Lane Stables is a family-run equestrian facility in Illinois that provides various services for horse lovers of all ages and experience levels.
The farm has a selection of trained horses suitable for riders of all experience levels, from novices to experts.
It offers a variety of guided trail rides that wind through its open fields and chilly areas.
The stables are in a picturesque area close to the village of Marengo, allowing guests to ride horses and explore the natural beauty.
Also, the facility provides horseback riding lessons for novice and experienced riders.
It employs a staff of qualified and experienced instructors who work with students to help them hone their abilities and gain confidence.
Riders of all ages can take the lessons, which cover a range of riding styles, such as Western and English riding.
Address: 8290 S Kean Ave, Willow Springs, IL 60480
2. Sarah’s Pony Rides (Family-Run Business)
Since 1979, children and families in northern Illinois have enjoyed pony rides and other activities from Sarah’s Pony Rides, a family-run business.
Sarah’s Pony Rides, based in the charming town of Galena, Illinois, allows guests to participate in a fun and unusual activity while taking in the splendor of the state’s rural landscape.
Of course, the ponies are Sarah’s Pony Rides’ main draw.
Children of various ages will enjoy riding one of the company’s many kind and amiable ponies.
Visitors can bond with a furry friend while taking a pony ride guided by an expert handler and exploring the area’s natural beauty.
Children as young as two can ride, and each ride lasts about five minutes.
Sarah’s Pony Rides provides a range of other entertaining activities for kids and families in addition to pony rides.
One of these is a petting zoo where kids can get up close and personal with friendly animals like goats, rabbits, and chickens.
There is also a playground where kids can climb, slide, and play in a secure setting.
Address: 8220 S Kean Ave, Willow Springs, IL 60514
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Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our article on the best places to enjoy horseback riding in California and Texas.