If your family likes a little adventure mixed in with your family getaway, these Horseback Riding Family Vacations might be the inspiration for your next great trip.
Get ready for fresh air, scenic trails, and that satisfying mix of trying something new… without needing a plane ticket.
The Northeast is stacked with horseback riding resorts hidden in plain sight.
You’ll find everything from all-inclusive dude ranches with scenic trail rides and nightly campfires to luxury family resorts where horseback rides and spa days happily coexist.
Whether it’s your first time trying horseback riding or you have a family of confident trail riders, these equestrian destinations make it easy to plan something fun, active, and a little different from your usual family trip.
All-Inclusive Dude Ranch Resorts in New York
Between the miles of open trails, the all-you-can-eat meals, and the constant “what’s next?” activity schedule, these all-inclusive family friendly ranch resorts in New York are built for families who like to keep things moving.
Rocking Horse Ranch
Highland, NY
Rocking Horse Ranch is a Hudson Valley favorite and a top all-inclusive resort in New York.
The property is stacked with year-round activities… daily scenic trail rides, pony rides for the littles, a lake for summer activities, a ski hill for winter activities and even an indoor AND outdoor waterpark for off-the-saddle fun.
What to Know:
- All-inclusive meals, activities and horseback rides included.
- Indoor & outdoor pools + water slides
- Petting zoo, paddle boats, skiing and snow tubing in winter
- Ideal for all skill levels (even total beginners)
TLJ tip: Rocking Horse Ranch feels like a cruise ship… but on land.
RockingHorseRanch.com
Driftwood Ranch
White Lake, NY
Less than two hours from New York City, Driftwood Ranch is a new to the scene, all-inclusive horseback riding family resort in the Catskills that gives you a taste of ranch life… without flying across the country.
This private property has only 4 luxury guest suites, so expect a personalized dude ranch vacation.
What to know:
- Daily guided horseback rides through scenic trails, with friendly instructors who tailor rides to any riding experience
- The Cattle Drive Suite fits a family of four comfortably (king bed, queen loft, and full kitchen)
- Hands-on ranch experiences like feeding longhorns and learning to rope
- Daily meals included, peaceful trails, cozy fires, and plenty of quality time between rides
TLJ tip: Expect a micro resort experience with only 4 luxury guest suites.
DriftwoodRanchResort.com
Ridin-Hy Ranch
Warrensburg, NY
Tucked in the lower Adirondacks near Lake George, Ridin-Hy Ranch is basically the all-inclusive horseback-riding family vacation you’ve always imagined.
The range of activities is so extensive, you couldn’t possibly do them all in one day.
Daily trail rides, tubing hills, skiing, archery, swimming, live shows, and even campfire singalongs… all wrapped into one easy, all-inclusive ranch vacation that runs year-round.
What to know:
Daily guided trail rides and lessons for all skill levels… all included!
- Indoor pool + lakefront beach + activities for all seasons
- All meals and activities included…
- A range of accommodations- private cabins, lodge rooms, and family-friendly suites.
TLJ tip: If your family wants an equestrian vacation where daily horseback rides are only one of many awesome things you do (instead of all there is), this place nails it.
RidinHy.com
1000 Acres Ranch
Stony Creek, NY
1000 Acres Ranch in the southern Adirondacks is a rustic all-inclusive horseback riding resort where the focus is fresh air, simple fun, and long days outside.
It’s the kind of place where kids can run wild between trail rides, and you might be able to actually relax outside by the river with a book.
What to know:
- Horseback rides for all skill levels with scenic trails that wind through wooded hills and along the Hudson River
- Accommodations range from lodge rooms to cozy cabinswith river views
• Meals, activities, and entertainment all included - Extra fun: tubing, archery, campfires, line dancing, and live entertainmentmost weekends
TLJ tip: 1000 Acres Ranch great stay for families who love that mix of rustic charm and a taste of ranch life… just pack your boots and let the schedule take care of itself. 1000Acres.com
Luxury Family Vacations with Horseback Riding Options
If you love the idea of a day spent out on the trail mixed with spa robes and room service, these luxury resorts will be your kind of Horseback Riding Family Vacation.
Each one flawlessly blends outdoor adventures with serious comfort… so you can spend the morning exploring scenic trails and the afternoon soaking in a heated pool (or, let’s be honest, sipping something sparkly).
Nemacolin
Farmington, PA
You know a resort is next level when they offer a place to land your plane…
Nemacolin is a luxury resort in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands that also happens to cater to families looking for a tailored equestrian vacation.
The full-service Equestrian Center offers everything from scenic trail rides and carriage experiences to pony rides for younger kids…along with a long list of other things to do once you’re out of the saddle.
What to know:
- Horseback rides and lessons for all skill levels at the on-site Equestrian Center
- Pools, golf, spa, ice cream parlor, kids’ club, and family-friendly recreational activities year-round
- Accommodation options range from the Grand Lodge to townhomes and private estates
- Multiple on-property dining options, from casual bites to fine dining experiences
TLJ tip: Come for the horses, stay for the everything-else… this is one equestrian vacation that you’ll love more than the kids.
Nemacolin.com
Winvian Farm
Morris, CT
Families looking for luxury lodge experiences in northwest Connecticut will feel right at home at Winivan.
Each themed cottage at Winivan is unique (one even has a helicopter in it), and the nearby stables offer scenic trail rides for all skill levels throughout the Litchfield Hills.
Family-friendly highlights:
- Private, lightly themed cottages with fireplaces and soaking tubs
- On-site spa and farm-to-table five-star dining
- Guided trail rides available through nearby stables
- A Relais & Chateaux property
TLJ tip: If your family likes places that feel like part of the adventure, this one’s on our Unique Places to Stay list for a reason.
The Preserve Sporting Club & Residences
Richmond, RI
Set on 3,500 private acres in Rhode Island, The Preserve Sporting Club & Residences feels like a luxury New England resort built for families who want unforgettable experiences AND comfort.
The equestrian program at The Preserve is top-notch (indoor/outdoor arena, trail rides, lessons) there is something for horseback riders of all levels.
What to know:
Guided trail rides, pony rides for littler ones, and indoor arena access for all skill levels.
- Outdoor pool, hiking, archery, ziplines, fishing, and a full roster of family-friendly recreational activities.
- Overnight stays range from luxury townhomes and tiny homes to a gorgeous spa suite… pick your comfort level.
TLJ tip: Even if only one family member dreams of having their own horse… everyone can find their thing at The Preserve.
Family Resorts with Horseback Riding Options
If you’re not quite ready to commit to a full dude ranch vacation but still want your whole family to getting a little riding experience, these family resorts make it easy.
Offering custom riding programs, beautiful scenery, plenty of pool time, and a wide range of on-site range of activities… these family vacations are calling your name.
Mohonk Mountain House
New Paltz, NY
This iconic Hudson Valley all-inclusive family resort is as classic and grand as it gets… and yes, the whole family can get in a little riding experience at Mohonk Mountain House.
Not only are your meals and activities included but daily, scenic trail rides and pony rides are offered seasonally (May-Oct.), along with hiking, boating, and one seriously stunning lake.
What to Know:
- Guided group or private scenic trail rides are offered for a fee (May – October)
- Indoor pool, outdoor pool, and spa
- Kids’ club and a range of activities on the lake
- Elegant rooms and beautiful views everywhere you look
- All-inclusive meal plans and activities
TLJ tip: Horseback riding reservations fill up fast during peak times… book as soon as you lock in your stay.
MohonkMountainHouse.com
Omni Mount Washington Resort
Bretton Woods, NH
If your family wants a little of everything in one getaway including horseback rides… this, is it.
Omni Mount Washington is in New Hampshire’s White Mountains and offers a huge variety of four-season recreational activities on their gorgeous property.
Not only are the stables on-site, but you’ll also find pools (indoor & an outdoor heated winter pool), zip-lining, skiing, trail rides for all skill levels and more.
What to know:
Trail rides and pony/ carriage options at the resort stables… options for all skill levels.
- Year-round indoor & outdoor pools, full spa, zip lines, tubing and a whole stack of outdoor recreational activities.
- Rooms and suites that are roomy enough for families, with mountain views and plenty of options.
TLJ tip: Explore the North Conway area with our guide to the Best Winter Things to do in North Conway
Creekside Resort & Spa
Greenville, PA
In southern Pennsylvania, Creekside Resort feels more like a tucked away country stay than a traditional horseback riding resort… and that’s exactly the appeal.
Your family can rent one of the private cabins, spend the day outside, and add a one-hour guided horseback ride right on the property (riders must be 8+).
Little ones can hop on a pony for a short ride before heading to the pool or the creek.
What to know:
- Private rustic cabins with private fire pits
- On-site horseback rides and pony rides offered daily for guests
- Outdoor pool in summer, plus fishing pond, hiking trails, playground and outdoor games
- Close to Blue Knob State Park for hiking and picnicking
TLJ tip: It’s a great weekend getaway in Pennsylvania if you want horseback rides and downtime in equal measure…
Which Horseback Riding Family Vacations Fits Your Family?
Not all Horseback Riding Family Vacations in the Northeast are built the same…some are full-on dude ranch adventures, others sneak the horses in between spa time and pool days.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you find the best horseback riding resort that fits your family best:
If you like… big energy, tons of activities and all-day action,
head to Rocking Horse Ranch (NY). The schedule never stops… trail rides, pools, water slides, and entertainment every night. A top all-inclusive family resort in New York.
If you like… a personalized dude ranch vibe with a boutique twist,
you’ll love Driftwood Ranch (NY). Only four suites, hands-on experiences, and just enough luxury to keep everyone comfy.
If you like… a year-round all-inclusive family vacation in upstate NY,
check out Ridin-Hy Ranch (NY). Think lakes, horses, snow tubing, skiing and live entertainment… basically summer camp that runs all year.
If you like… the idea of a luxury family vacation that also gets the horse thing,
then Nemacolin (PA) is it. This equestrian vacation takes you miles over open trail to the five-star spa, all without ever leaving the property (this is just one of our favorite Resorts with Activities for All Ages).
If you like… mountain views and resort perks the whole family will love,
book Omni Mount Washington Resort (NH). Guided horseback rides, ziplining, pools, and hiking trails make it just as fun for the horse lovers as the lounge-by-the-pool crew.
Happy travels…
