The 30 Best Equestrian adventures in Florida

Indian Mound Camp Ground in Apopka, Florida offers a unique camping experience surrounded by the natural beauty of sand pine scrub and pine flatwoods. Situated near the Rock Springs Run State Reserve, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and horseback riding on 17 miles of scenic trails. Primitive campsites along Rock Springs Run and the Wekiva River are accessible by canoe only, while equestrian camping facilities are also available. Please note that access to the reserve is through Rock Springs Reserve Road and Wekiva River Road in Sorrento, Florida. The old entrance off State Road 429 South is open during hunting season for participants, as the reserve is also co-managed with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for hunting purposes. Hunting is permitted on select weekends from September through January, with designated areas clearly marked and some trails closed for safety reasons.

Camp Mack, located at 14900 Camp Mack Road in Lake Wales, Florida, is a storied fishing lodge and RV resort nestled in the heart of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. With access to over 21,000 acres of world-class bass fishing grounds, surrounded by Florida's stunning great outdoors, Camp Mack offers a truly authentic "Old Florida" lakefront experience. Whether you're a professional angler seeking that trophy largemouth bass or simply looking to enjoy time with family and friends, Camp Mack has something for everyone. In addition to the fantastic fishing opportunities, Camp Mack also offers over 20 miles of hiking and equestrian trails at the nearby Lake Kissimmee State Park. Visitors can also enjoy exhilarating airboat tours of the lakes with Alligator Cove Nature Tours, departing right from Camp Mack's docks. Rated as a top activity in the region by TripAdvisor, these tours provide a glimpse into the beauty and wildlife of the Florida wilderness.

Rayshell Ranch, LLC is a premier travel agency located at 20100 Cole Lane in Loxahatchee, Florida, United States. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing exceptional travel experiences for our clients. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an adventurous safari, or a luxurious cruise, we have the expertise and resources to make your travel dreams a reality. Contact Rayshell Ranch, LLC today to start planning your next unforgettable vacation.

Farm Tours of Ocala offers an exciting and informative experience for visitors looking to explore the renowned horse country of Ocala, Florida. Located at 1750 Northwest 80th Avenue, Ocala, the tours cost $65 per person and run from Monday to Saturday, starting at 8:30 AM. The 3 to 3.5-hour tour includes visits to three different locations with plenty of interaction with the horses. Due to COVID-19 safety measures, tours are limited to 8 people per van, with a minimum of 3 participants. Guests have the option to follow along in their own vehicle if they prefer. Masks are required when outside the vehicle at tour stops. The guides are vaccinated, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Cactus Jack's Trail Rides, located at 11100 Southwest 16th Avenue in Ocala, Florida, offers unforgettable horseback riding adventures through the scenic beauty of the Cross Florida Greenway. As the designated horseback riding provider for the Greenway's 70,000 acres, Cactus Jack's is dedicated to providing a memorable and safe experience for riders of all levels. With a focus on horse and rider comfort, Cactus Jack's carefully matches guests with horses based on weight, experience level, and any handicaps. The 22 horses at the facility are rotated regularly to ensure they have time off and are well-rested for each ride. The use of high-quality Australian and Western saddles further enhances the comfort and support for both horse and rider.

Alafia River State Park, located at 14326 South County Road 39 in Lithia, Florida, is a unique and exciting tourist attraction. While the Gravitron bike trail is currently closed, visitors can still enjoy the other areas of the park. Please note that some mapping software may lead you to the wrong entrance - the main entrance is on County Road 39. This park stands out in Central Florida for its dramatic elevation changes, a result of its history as a phosphate mine. It is a popular destination for mountain bikers who come to tackle the challenging trails designed by the International Mountain Bike Association.

Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park is a stunning natural oasis located at 4335 Firetower Road in Haines City, Florida, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction that spans over 8,000 acres of diverse habitats including scrub, sandhill, and flatwoods, as well as 65 acres of submerged land. Visitors to the park can explore 6 miles of hiking trails, 7 miles of equestrian trails, and enjoy fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is home to a variety of rare plants and protected animal species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Knight Trail Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 3445 Rustic Road in Nokomis, Florida. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area with its lush greenery, tranquil walking trails, and scenic views. The park is a perfect spot for outdoor activities such as picnicking, bird watching, and fishing. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Knight Trail Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Caloosahatchee Regional Park is a beautiful natural oasis located at 19130 North River Road in Alva, Florida. This park, managed by Lee County Parks & Recreation, offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy. With 768 acres of pine flatwoods, scrub oak, cypress swamps, and oak hammocks, the park is a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Visitors can explore over 20 miles of scenic trails that wind through the park's diverse ecosystems. The north side of the park is designated for mountain biking and horseback riding, while the south side features hiking trails, a fishing pier, a floating dock, and a primitive campground. Campsites are available for families, groups, and equestrians, with affordable rates for overnight stays.

Middleton Stables is a premier travel agency located at 2837 Anchor Road in Middleburg, Florida. We specialize in organizing unique and unforgettable equestrian experiences for riders of all levels. Our expert team of guides and instructors will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable adventure exploring the beautiful countryside on horseback. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced rider seeking a challenging trail ride, Middleton Stables has something for everyone. Come visit us and discover the magic of horseback riding in the heart of Florida.

Mckie Equine is a renowned travel agency specializing in equestrian adventures located at 18133 Boys Ranch Road in Altoona, Florida. With a passion for horses and travel, Mckie Equine offers unique and unforgettable experiences for horse enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you're looking to explore scenic trails on horseback or participate in a riding clinic, Mckie Equine has something for everyone. Their knowledgeable staff and expert guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all clients. Book your next equestrian adventure with Mckie Equine and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Blackwater Heritage State Trail Visitor Center is located at 5533 Alabama Street in Milton, Florida, United States. This travel agency is the perfect starting point for exploring the westernmost state rail-trail, which winds through the historic town of Milton. The 8.1-mile paved trail offers a scenic journey through North Florida, with wooden bridges crossing creeks and wildflowers decorating the landscape. Designated as a National Recreation Trail and part of Florida's State Greenways and Trails System, this paved trail is ideal for biking, running, walking, and skating. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and bird-watching activities along the trail. Equestrians are welcome to use the paved trail or unpaved shoulder, but are not allowed on the Military Heritage Trail.

Santa Fe River Rise is a stunning park located in High Springs, Florida, where the Santa Fe River disappears underground in O'Leno State Park and reemerges as a circular pool in River Rise Preserve State Park. This unique phenomenon attracts visitors who enjoy fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in the peaceful surroundings of the park. Equestrians, hikers, and cyclists can explore the extensive trail system that spans over 35 miles. For equestrians, there is a primitive equestrian camp with campsites, a bathhouse, and a horse barn available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can enter the park through the Little Shoals Entrance or the Big Shoals Entrance in White Springs. Effective Sept. 2, 2023, the park is open for day-use and equestrian camping with limited trail access. Check the Storm Updates page for more information.

San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park, located at 13201 San Felasco Parkway in Alachua, Florida, is a stunning natural oasis offering a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. With a diverse range of flora and fauna, including champion trees and a variety of wildlife such as bobcats, deer, foxes, and turkeys, the park provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Florida's natural environment. Hikers, off-road cyclists, horseback riders, and nature enthusiasts will all find something to enjoy at San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park. The park's varied terrain, limestone outcrops, and 18 natural communities offer a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures.

San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park, located at 11101 Millhopper Road in Gainesville, Florida, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of activities such as birding, off-road biking, and hiking, this park offers stunning scenery and a rich historic past for visitors to explore. The limestone outcrops and diverse natural communities provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including bobcats, white-tailed deer, and songbirds. Visitors can enjoy the solitude and quiet of the park's hiking trails, while the northern section offers trails for horseback riding and off-road cycling. Equestrians must have proof of a negative Coggins test for horseback riding. The park also features champion trees and a range of outdoor adventure opportunities for all ages.

Sweetwater Oaks is a charming lodging and RV park located in the picturesque city of Ocala, Florida. Situated on 45 acres, our community offers 242 beautifully maintained sites surrounded by rolling pastures and scenic waterways. Residents can enjoy the lush, oak-lined streets and world-renowned horse shows that make Ocala the "Horse Capital of the World." With convenient access to top thoroughbred farms, training centers, and natural attractions like the Ocala National Forest and Silver Springs State Park, residents of Sweetwater Oaks have endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. The College of Central Florida also provides educational opportunities for active seniors seeking to expand their knowledge.

River Rise Preserve State Park, located at 373 US Highway 27 in High Springs, Florida, is a serene and beautiful natural oasis where visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The park is known for the unique phenomenon where the Santa Fe River disappears underground in O'Leno State Park and reemerges 3 miles away at River Rise Preserve as a circular pool before continuing on its journey to the Suwannee River. Surrounded by peaceful woods and towering trees, the park is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Anglers can spend a leisurely afternoon casting their lines into the river, while hikers and nature enthusiasts can explore the park's extensive trail system that spans over 35 miles. Equestrians, hikers, and fat-tire cyclists alike will find plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Payne’s Prairie, located in Gainesville, Florida, is a unique and diverse preserve where visitors can witness wild roaming bison and horses, along with nearly 300 species of birds. This institution offers eight trails for hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling, including the popular 16-mile paved Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. The park also features a 50-foot high observation tower for panoramic views, fishing and canoeing on Lake Wauburg, and a shaded campground for overnight stays. With over 20 distinct biological communities, Paynes Prairie provides a rich array of habitats for wildlife and livestock, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

The Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway Park is a unique and diverse institution located at 8282 Southeast Highway 314 in Ocala, Florida, United States. This park is part of one of the nation's largest incomplete public works projects, now transformed into a 110-mile linear park spanning Central Florida from the Gulf of Mexico to the St. Johns River. Covering more than 70,000 acres of land formerly known as the Cross Florida Barge Canal, the Greenway offers over 300 miles of trails for paddling, hiking, mountain biking, equestrian activities, and paved multi-use paths. It is also a wildlife corridor, with a "land bridge" across a major interstate that both trail users and wildlife utilize. Black bears are known to use the Greenway as a major corridor, especially near the Ocala National Forest.

Located in Hawthorne, Florida, the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail Head is a park that serves as the starting point for the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. This 16-mile trail takes visitors on a journey through various conservation lands, including the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. As you explore this historic rail bed turned greenway, you will encounter native plants, wildlife, and stunning scenery that showcases the beauty of Florida. The trail also offers insights into the area's history, with stops of interest highlighting the story of small railroad towns and human activity along the corridor.

The Lake Conservation Park is a nature lover's paradise located at 17302 North Dale Mabry Highway, Lutz, Florida. Surrounded by suburban homes, this large park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. Explore five beautiful lakes, cypress swamps, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks while spotting wildlife along the way. The park features marked wooded pathways perfect for hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy a workout trail with exercise stations, an archery range, and two horse arenas. Fishing and boating opportunities are also available on the lakes, as well as a track for Tampa BMX and radio-controlled car racing. For those looking to explore the park's trails, the Northdale Lake Park Trail can be accessed at 5100 Northdale Blvd. inside the Northdale subdivision. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent at the park's entry station, and camping options are offered for non-profit, 501(c) youth groups. Reservations can be made for groups as small as 12 campers. Don't miss out on all the outdoor fun that Lake Conservation Park has to offer!

Located at 64 West Citrus Springs Boulevard in Citrus Springs, Florida, the Withlacoochee State Trail - South Citrus Springs Trailhead is a popular park that serves as the starting point for the Withlacoochee State Trail. This trail is one of the longest paved rail-trails in Florida, spanning 47 miles and offering a flat terrain that is perfect for cycling, running, walking, and skating. The trail provides access to a variety of recreational activities for all skill levels, including an unpaved equestrian trail that runs parallel to the paved trail. As part of the Florida Greenways and Trail System, the Withlacoochee State Trail is also designated as a National Recreation Trail, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Withlacoochee State Trail, located in Floral City, Florida, is one of the longest paved rail-trails in the state, stretching 47 miles. This trail is perfect for cyclists, runners, walkers, and skaters of all skill levels, with a flat terrain and numerous access points. In addition to the paved trail, there is also an unpaved equestrian trail running parallel to it. Traversing three counties - Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco - the trail takes you through small towns, ranches, and six distinct natural communities. As part of the Florida Greenways and Trail System, the Withlacoochee State Trail is also designated as a National Recreation Trail, offering ample opportunities for plant and wildlife viewing, as well as access to various recreational activities.

The Florida Trail Land Bridge Trailhead is a park and tourist attraction located at 11100 Southwest 16th Avenue in Ocala, Florida, United States. This primary trailhead provides access to the I-75 Landbridge, a structure designed to minimize ecological damage by following a natural ridge over 100 feet in elevation. The bridge is 52 feet wide by 200 feet long and is surrounded by planters filled with native plants. Wildlife cameras on the bridge have captured photos of bobcats, coyotes, wild turkey, and Florida black bears crossing. Visitors can enjoy facilities such as restrooms with potable water, a shaded picnic area, and equine, hiking, and natural surface bike trails. Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides offers guided equestrian horseback rides along the greenway’s shaded trails. The trailhead is located approximately 1.4 miles east of the Landbridge off County Road 475A and is accessible from I-75 via the County Road 484 exit. Come explore this beautiful and diverse natural area in Florida!

Silver Springs Clear Kayaking is a travel agency located at 5656 East Silver Springs Boulevard in Silver Springs, Florida, United States. We offer clear kayak rentals with treasure maps for self-guided tours, as well as manatee tours during the winter months when the manatees migrate to the springs to stay warm. The water temperature in the spring stays at 72 degrees year-round, making it an ideal spot to see wildlife such as manatees, marsh birds, alligators, and wild rhesus macaque monkeys. Silver Springs is rich in history, with attractions dating back to the late 1870s and Hollywood movies filmed on location. The Silver River is a first magnitude spring, pumping out a minimum of one hundred cubic feet per second. The park covers over 5000 acres and offers hiking trails, bicycling areas, equestrian trails, and a museum.

Located at 6964 North Lecanto Highway in Hernando, Florida, the Withlacoochee State Trail - Hernando Trail Head is a popular park that serves as the starting point for the Withlacoochee State Trail. This trail is one of the longest paved rail-trails in Florida, stretching 47 miles through Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco counties. The trail offers a flat terrain and numerous access points, making it suitable for cyclists, runners, walkers, and skaters of all skill levels. Additionally, an unpaved equestrian trail runs parallel to sections of the paved trail, providing opportunities for horseback riding. The trail passes through small towns, ranches, and six distinct natural communities, offering a diverse and enjoyable journey for visitors.

Withlacoochee State Trail - Lake Townsen Trailhead is a beautiful park located in Istachatta, Florida, United States. This institution serves as a trailhead for the Withlacoochee State Trail, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding along the scenic trail that winds through the lush greenery of the surrounding area. The park offers amenities such as parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day of outdoor recreation with family and friends. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll in nature or an exhilarating bike ride, Withlacoochee State Trail - Lake Townsen Trailhead has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Florida Trail Withlacoochee State Trail - Ridge Manor Trailhead is located along the Withlacoochee State Trail in Brooksville, Florida. This 47-mile paved rail-trail is one of the longest in the state, offering a flat terrain and multiple access points for cycling, running, walking, and skating. The trail also features an unpaved equestrian trail that runs parallel to parts of the paved trail. Traversing three counties, the trail takes you through small towns, ranches, and six distinct natural communities, providing a varied and enjoyable journey. Designated as part of the Florida Greenways and Trail System and a National Recreation Trail, the Withlacoochee State Trail offers rich opportunities for viewing plants and wildlife, as well as access to outstanding recreational opportunities.

Rancho Bonito is a charming campground, lodging, and park located at 44356 County Road 54 East in Kathleen, Florida, United States. Nestled in a serene and picturesque setting, Rancho Bonito offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're seeking a peaceful camping experience, comfortable lodging accommodations, or a fun day out in nature, Rancho Bonito has something for everyone. With plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, this institution is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Rancho Bonito for yourself.

Van Fleet Trail - Mabel Trailhead is located at 12201 County Road 772 in Webster, Florida, United States. This park is officially designated as part of Florida's statewide system of greenways and trails, and is one of Florida's most rural, paved rail-trails. It is also designated as a National Recreation Trail®, running through the Green Swamp which is the headwaters for some of Florida's most popular paddling destinations including the Withlacoochee, Hillsborough, and Peace rivers. The landscapes along the trail include river swamp, bottomland forest, pine flatwoods, former citrus lands, and cattle ranches. With only one curve in its 29.2 miles, visitors can choose to go slow and view the wildlife or enjoy it at a brisk pace. An equestrian trail parallels the length of the paved path, and there are excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially between Green Pond Road and Bay Lake Road.