Horseback riding around the Villages of Citrus Hills is a nice relaxing way to see the beautiful nature of Citrus County.
If horseback riding is something that excites you, there are more than a few options available to you near the Villages of Citrus Hills.
If you already have your own horse ready to go, there are more than a half dozen different state and local trails that are open to the public for horseback riding.
Don’t have your own horse? That’s not a problem either, because the area is filled with great local stables and ranches that offer a wide range of services from basic trail rides to overnight equestrian camping trips.
Here are some of the most popular local trails that allow horseback riding:
Withlacoochee State Trail
Withlacoochee Bay Trail / Felburn Park Trailhead
Potts Preserve Riding Trail Equestrian Trails
Flying Eagle Preserve Equestrian Trails
Two Mile Prairie Equestrian Trails
Withlacoochee State Forest Equestrian Trails / Tillis Hill Equine Campground
All of these trails provide public access for riders who have their own horses or those riding with local tour companies. Many of them also provide information on the closest place to hire a horseback riding guide.
If you are a novice rider looking for a more comprehensive riding facility that also offers lessons or other amenities, you will definitely want to check out one of the great local facilities that is fully focused on horseback riding. Here are some great options:
Blueberry Hill Farms
Located right across the street from Two Mile State Park Blueberry Hill Farms has unprecedented access to over 3,000 acres of trails and camping facilities. Owner Tammy Woodburn has been riding horses since she was six years old and is happy to work with everyone from first time riders to experienced riders.
In addition to all of the trails it has access to, Blueberry Hill Farms also features its own clay riding ring and jump course. They offer lessons for beginners, and have boarding, training, and sales information for more experienced riders that might be looking to purchase their own horses.
Just Horse’n Around
Located just east of Inverness in Rutland, Just Horse’n Around is a great location for anyone looking to take the step from novice to intermediate rider. They offer a great selection of different trail rides and lessons across more than 9,000 acres. They also offer all of the professional equestrian services like boarding, training, and stud services.
One of the more interesting aspects of Just Horse’n Around is their Rutland Saddle Club, which offers all of the perks of owning your own horse for a fixed monthly fee. This can be a great way for people who want to get more serious about their riding and spend more time in the saddle.
Lady Hawk Farm
The big selling point at Lady Hawk Farm is that horses don’t come and go here, they are part of the family and many have been with the farm for years. Each horse is owned by the farm, and being located near the Withlacoochee State Forest means that there are hundreds of miles of trails to explore. All trail experiences are guided by Susanne, who has more than 25 years of experience in the industry.
If you are looking to put together an equestrian-themed getaway, Lady Hawk Farms also offers a fantastic cabin that comes complete with an in-ground, screened swimming pool. The two-bedroom cabin can sleep up to six people and contains a full kitchen.
Rymar Ranch
Also located near the Withlacoochee State Forest is Rymar Ranch, which promotes itself as a clean and modern equestrian facility. The calm horses at Rymar are perfect for first-time riders, and trail rides through the forest are available in one hour, one and a half hour, and two hour increments. They also offer lessons, riding programs, boarding services, and breeding services.
Horseback riding can be an exciting way to experience nature near the Villages of Citrus Hills. See you on the trails!