There are so many benefits to interacting with animals including confidence building, stress relief and more. Horseback riding can be quite therapeutic for many as well as a lot of fun. For those of us that don’t live on a farm, here are some places in Oklahoma City and the surrounding metro area that allow families to ride. Most offer guided rides for a variety of experience levels. Please call ahead as schedules and availability changes seasonally.
3f Ranch (2874 W Simpson Rd, Edmond) offers lessons from beginning riders to advanced including parent and child lessons as well. Best suited for ages 7 & up. Reservations required. 618-1699, www.facebook.com/threefretzranch/
Cadence Equestrian Center (14150 S Pine St, Edmond) features riding lessons, shows & clinics, camps and birthday parties. Prices vary. 405-513-4488, www.cadenceequestrian.com
Cottonwood Creek Ranch (907 N Chisholm) offers riding lessons, summer camps and parties. Prices vary. 204-7625, www.cottonwoodcreekranch.net
Cross Creek Stables (2200 Danforth Rd, Edmond) offers riding lessons, camps and barn shows. Prices vary. 888-7379, www.crosscreekstablesokc.com
Honey Lee Ranch (7201 N Douglas Blvd, Jones) offers guided riding opportunities on the ranch’s over 350 acres of manicured trails. Bring your own horse or choose to rent a horse from Equi Adventures. Party and event rentals also available. 664-9666, www.honeyleeranchok.com
The Riding Stables (7900 SE 104th St) offers 6,000 acres of scenic land to explore around Lake Stanley Draper. Rides are escorted, just under two hours and available for all skill levels. Horses are matched to skill level. 9 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., last ride leaves at 6:30 p.m. Closed Mondays, except holidays. Reservations required. $25. 794-8850, www.facebook.com/theridingstablesatdraperlake/
Silver Wind Stables at Windy Meadow Farm (24413 N May Ave, Edmond) offers riding lessons, trail rides, summer camps and parties. Experience the beauty of Oklahoma on horseback across our 700-acre ranch. $50 per rider. 834-0411, www.silverwindstables.com
Tesorino Equestrian Center (4555 S Midwest Blvd, Guthrie) offers niche riding lessons for a variety of experience levels a as well as mommy & me program. Ages 2-5 can get a chance to see, play, touch and ride horses in a safe and controlled environment. 464-1641, www.tesorinoeq.com
