Horseback Riding In The State Of Ohio

If you're looking for places to go horseback riding in Ohio, you're in luck. In addition to the many ranches and stables, there are also numerous State Parks in Cleveland, Toledo, Cincinnati and Columbus that offer over 400 miles of trails through all sorts of picturesque territories.

Ohio State Parks and Forests don't provide horse rentals, but if you are a horse owner, or have access to a horse that you can ride, they are a wonderful place to go horseback riding. The state forests border several state parks which provide you with more than 200 additional miles of trails. Many of the trails have been enhanced and are maintained through partnerships with local horseman's organizations. There are also Horseman's camps that are available at 17 state park and state forest locations with facilities ranging from rustic to fully-equipped sites with all the modern campground amenities.

You need to know that Ohio State park trails are multiple use grounds as they also service hikers and mountain bikers on some of the same trails. Also, you must be very alert and cautious during deer hunting season because some of the trails at a number of the parks cross through selected hunting areas. There is however, a designated safety zone within 400 feet of the trails.

To view all of the state parks and facilities in Ohio that offer horseback riding trails and even supply maps of the paths, go to: www.ohiohorsemanscouncil.com and click on the Trails link.

There are also quite a few stables throughout Ohio where you can go to rent horses for trail rides and other related activities. Happy Trails Horseback Rides in Rockbridge, Ohio offers scenic rides for every level of experience. They have many trails available and you can choose your own time limit for riding from one-half hour to over three hours. Reservations are not required, but recommended. Visit Happy Trails Horseback Rides website at www.hthorsebackrides.com for more information.

The Spotted Horse Ranch in Laurelville, Ohio has guided trails, a working farm and even offers you the opportunity to assist them with a cattle drive. You can bring your own horse or ride one of theirs and they provide supervised rides for beginners. The ranch also offers campsites and fully-equipped vacation cabins with hot tubs and fireplaces. There is a two-day Horse Camp through the months of June and August for kids 9-12 years old. During their stay, each child will be assigned their very own horse. They will learn the basics of western horsemanship which includes an introduction to riding and handling the horses. There are even a few games incorporated to boost their learning experience. Check out their website at www.thespottedhorseranch.com.