10 Notable Horse Ranches in Southern California
Southern California is home to a thriving equestrian community. Here are ten standout ranches and facilities worth knowing about.
Southern California's Equestrian Scene
Southern California has one of the most active equestrian communities in the United States. From the scenic trails of the Santa Monica Mountains to the show circuits of the Inland Empire, the region offers world-class facilities, year-round riding weather, and a passionate horse community.
Here are ten standout ranches and equestrian facilities that represent the diversity of SoCal's horse world.
1. Gibson Ranch — Sunland, CA
Nestled in the heart of Sunland at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, Gibson Ranch is a historic Western riding facility that has been a cornerstone of the local equestrian community for decades. Originally built by Dale and Heather Gibson, the ranch has recently come under new ownership and is being thoughtfully preserved and improved while honoring its legacy.
Highlights:
- Premier Western riding facility: barrel racing, ranch riding, roping, and more
- Full-care boarding with spacious stalls and expert daily care
- Multiple riding arenas, round pens, and turnout areas
- Wash racks, tack rooms, and on-site management
- Easy access to trails and open spaces in the foothills
- Training, clinics, and community events
- Event venue for weddings, private celebrations, and corporate retreats
- Haul-in riding passes available
Contact: 9655 Wentworth St, Sunland, CA 91040 · (818) 400-6746 · gibsonranchla.com
2. Los Angeles Equestrian Center — Burbank, CA
Located adjacent to Griffith Park in Burbank, the Los Angeles Equestrian Center (LAEC) is one of the most iconic and versatile horse facilities in the state. Operating since the 1980s, it has hosted world-class competitions, served thousands of boarders, and remains the gateway to some of the best urban trail riding in the country.
Highlights:
- Direct access to 53+ miles of Griffith Park and Verdugo Mountains trails
- Full-service boarding with daily turnout and professional barn staff
- Multiple arenas including a lighted indoor arena for year-round use
- Host to major USEF-rated shows including the LA National Horse Show
- On-site farrier and veterinary services available
- Riding lessons for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced competitors
- Horse rentals and guided trail rides for non-boarders
Contact: 480 W. Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91506 · (818) 840-9063 · thelaec.com
3. Galway Downs — Temecula, CA
Set in the rolling hills of Temecula's Wine Country, Galway Downs is one of Southern California's most celebrated competition venues for eventing, hunter/jumper, and dressage. The property spans hundreds of lush acres and features a stunning natural landscape that draws competitors and spectators from across the West Coast.
Highlights:
- Premier venue for USEA-recognized eventing competitions
- Expansive grass cross-country course with technical and training-level options
- Multiple grass and sand arenas for flatwork, jumping, and dressage
- Full-care boarding and professional training programs on-site
- Regular hunter/jumper and dressage shows throughout the year
- Stunning vineyard and hillside scenery
Contact: 38801 Los Corralitos Rd, Temecula, CA · (951) 303-0405 · galwaydowns.com
4. Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park — San Juan Capistrano, CA
Nestled in the rolling hills of San Juan Capistrano, Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park is one of Orange County's most prestigious equestrian venues. The facility is the longtime home of the Blenheim EquiSports show circuit, one of the most respected hunter/jumper series on the West Coast.
Highlights:
- Home to Blenheim EquiSports USEF-rated hunter/jumper competitions
- Multiple competition and warm-up rings, all impeccably groomed
- Premium stabling available during shows and events
- Beautiful hillside setting in one of SoCal's most historic equestrian communities
- Easy access to Ortega Highway trails for recreational riding
Contact: 30753 La Pata Rd, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 · (949) 633-4040 · theridingpark.com
5. Sunset Ranch Hollywood — Hollywood Hills, CA
For trail riders and casual equestrians, Sunset Ranch Hollywood offers one of the most uniquely memorable riding experiences in the country. Perched in the Hollywood Hills just minutes from the Hollywood Sign, the ranch has been operating since the 1920s.
Highlights:
- Guided trail rides through the Hollywood Hills with sweeping views of the LA basin
- Famous sunset dinner rides to a Burbank restaurant
- One of the oldest operating horse facilities in Los Angeles, with nearly 100 years of history
- No experience necessary — perfect for beginners, families, and tourists
- Private rides and group events available
Contact: 3400 N Beachwood Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068 · (323) 469-5450 · sunsetranchhollywood.com
6. Hansen Dam Equestrian Center — Lake View Terrace, CA
Operated by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, Hansen Dam Equestrian Center is a beloved community facility serving the San Fernando Valley's horse community for decades.
Highlights:
- City-operated facility with affordable boarding rates
- Riding lessons for all skill levels, including youth programs
- Direct trail access into the San Gabriel Mountains foothills
- Lighted arena for evening and early-morning riding
- Regular horse shows, gymkhanas, and community events
Contact: 11127 Orcas Ave, Lake View Terrace, CA 91342 · (818) 896-6514 · hansendamhorsepark.com
7. Desert International Horse Park — Thermal, CA
Located in the Coachella Valley near Palm Springs, the Desert International Horse Park (DIHP) is one of the largest and most prestigious equestrian competition venues in the world.
Highlights:
- One of the largest equestrian facilities in North America at ~1.6 million sq ft
- Host to the renowned Desert Circuit, featuring USEF and FEI-rated events
- Multiple Grand Prix arenas, warm-up rings, and covered schooling areas
- VIP Palm Club, onsite dining, shopping, and luxury hospitality
- Spectacular desert landscape backdrop with mountain views
Contact: 85-555 Airport Blvd., Thermal, CA 92274 · deserthorsepark.com
8. Flintridge Riding Club — La Cañada Flintridge, CA
Tucked into the scenic foothills of La Cañada Flintridge, the Flintridge Riding Club is a private, member-based equestrian facility that has been one of the most beloved clubs in Southern California for generations.
Highlights:
- 40 gated, beautifully manicured acres in the La Cañada foothills
- Six riding arenas with premium GGT footing
- Three dedicated jumping arenas, including one with grandstand seating for 600
- Regulation dressage court with mirrors and a full cross-country field
- Historic Spanish-Colonial clubhouse with chef service and patio dining
Contact: 4625 Oak Grove Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 · (818) 952-1233 · flintridgeridingclub.org
9. Trabuco Creek Equestrian — Trabuco Canyon, CA
Nestled on 13.8 scenic acres in the heart of Trabuco Canyon in the Santa Ana Mountains, Trabuco Creek Equestrian is a peaceful and well-regarded facility in the hills of South Orange County.
Highlights:
- 13.8 private acres tucked into the Santa Ana Mountain foothills
- Direct access to Cleveland National Forest trails
- Peaceful, low-density boarding environment ideal for horse well-being
- Summer horsemanship camps and riding programs available
- Family-friendly atmosphere with a strong sense of community
Contact: Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679 · (949) 742-8086 · trabucocreekequestrianca.com
10. Arroyo Seco Stables — Pasadena, CA
For equestrians in the greater Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley area, Arroyo Seco Stables is a rare gem: a working stable with direct access to the Arroyo Seco trail corridor.
Highlights:
- Direct trail access along the Arroyo Seco into the San Gabriel Mountains
- Miles of off-road riding without trailering
- Full boarding with attentive daily care
- One of the most scenic riding corridors in Southern California
Contact: 118 Marmion Way, South Pasadena, CA 90042 · (626) 437-1511 · arroyosecostables.com
Planning a Visit
If you're considering boarding or lessons at any of these facilities, we recommend:
- Visiting in person before committing
- Talking to current boarders about their experience
- Asking about emergency vet and farrier access
- Reviewing the contract carefully
Southern California's equestrian community is welcoming and well-connected — once you're part of it, word-of-mouth will lead you to the right barn.
Once you find your home barn, use EquiLog to manage your horse's health records, expenses, ride logs, and training schedules all in one place.
Stay Organized with EquiLog
Track health records, expenses, ride logs, and training schedules — all in one place.
Related Articles
We use essential cookies to make our site work and analytical cookies to understand how you use our site. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to the use of these cookies. You can manage your preferences at any time. Read our Privacy Policy.