Horseback Riding in/around Richmond VA    

The Richmond metro area is known for its Civil War landmarks, thriving arts community, and scenic riverfront—but it also offers an underrated outlet for outdoor recreation: horseback riding. Across the region, riders of all levels can explore forested trails, take lessons in English and Western styles, or participate in summer camps and local shows. From wooded state parks to competitive lesson barns, Richmond’s equestrian scene is more accessible and vibrant than many realize.

Virginia’s Rich Equestrian History      

Virginia has a storied history with horses, highlighted by iconic figures such as Secretariat, whose legendary racing career is commemorated by a statue in downtown Ashland. Colonial Downs racetrack continues this legacy today, underscoring the Richmond metro region’s longstanding ties to horse racing and breeding. Richmond VA also boasts historical equestrian traditions through its mounted police units. Henrico County once had mounted police officers patrolling on horseback, highlighting a long-standing tradition of equine involvement in law enforcement. Chesterfield County and the City of Richmond continue the tradition with award-winning mounted patrol units. These units not only support public safety but also foster community engagement through appearances at local events.

As a daily reminder of the past, historical remnants like antique cast-iron hitching posts can occasionally still be found in Richmond VA neighborhoods like Church Hill, serving as nostalgic reminders of a time when horses were central to transportation and daily life in Richmond Virginia.

Horseback Riding Trails in Natural Settings      

For many riders, the experience begins on the trail. In Chesterfield County, VA, Brandywine Farms offers one-hour guided horseback trail rides on shaded wooded paths, making it a welcoming choice for beginners. The family-run facility also provides pony rides for children, making it a popular destination for families with young kids. Nearby, Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield VA features over 60 miles of multi-use trails that are open to horseback riding. Riders can park horse trailers at the Bright Hope Horse Complex and explore varied terrain through pine forest, hills, and streams. The park is particularly popular during spring and fall, when the weather makes for comfortable trail conditions.

In New Kent County, VA, Crawfords State Forest offers a more rustic, low-traffic alternative. Its horseback trails wind through hardwood groves and quiet clearings, ideal for experienced riders seeking a peaceful ride. A State Forest Use Permit is required for equestrians aged 16 and up.

Richmond VA Horseback Riding Lessons & Schools

For those looking to develop or refine their horseback riding skills, the Richmond VA area is home to several respected lesson barns. In Midlothian VA, James River Equestrian Center (JREC) provides structured instruction in English riding disciplines.Horseback riding group lessons include 3 to 5 students and follow a monthly enrollment model, with private lessons available to those already enrolled. JREC also hosts low-key schooling shows that give students a chance to gain confidence in a supportive environment. In Goochland County, Pine Crest Farm offers a more competitive program with horseback riding lessons in hunter/jumper, dressage, and equitation. Students regularly compete in circuits sanctioned by the Virginia Horse Shows Association (VHSA) and Central Virginia Show Jumping Association (CVSJA). The facility also offers working student opportunities and horse leases, supporting both education and advancement in the sport.

Most horseback riding lesson barns focus on foundational horsemanship as much as riding itself—emphasizing skills like grooming, tacking up, and caring for horses, not just time in the saddle. There are many more boarding stables, and opportunities, some of which you will only learn about by plunging into this often insular culture. In the region's more rural counties horseback riding remains an important sport and pastime. 

Equestrian Camps, Clinics, and Programs  

In addition to lessons, local Richmond VA horseback riding barns frequently run seasonal programs such as summer camps and riding clinics. For example, Brandywine Farms offers youth horse camps that include basic riding instruction and horse care. Pine Crest Farm runs intensive week-long camps focused on equitation, jumping, and barn management for more experienced riders. These programs promote not only riding ability but also broader themes of responsibility, patience, and teamwork. Beyond recreational and competitive tracks, some barns partner with homeschool groups or special-needs programs, using riding and horse care to teach discipline, empathy, and focus. A small number of therapeutic programs—such as WHOA Behavioral Health in Henrico County — incorporate horseback riding into wellness-based interventions.

Getting Started...

Most local stables in Richmond provide necessary tack and gear for beginners. For example, Brandywine Farms supplies all equipment for trail rides and requires helmets for all riders, regardless of age. James River Equestrian Center also emphasizes proper safety gear and attire. Booking in advance is required for most trail rides, especially during weekends and school breaks. First-time riders are advised to wear long pants and boots with a heel if possible—though closed-toe shoes are typically accepted. Whether you're visiting or local, the Richmond region offers accessible riding experiences close to the city, paired with professional instruction in well-maintained environments.

Polo

The Richmond metro region's equestrian culture includes the exciting and fast-paced sport of polo, thanks to the recently established Goochland Polo Club. Based at Little Hawk Farm in Crozier, the club provides accessible opportunities for spectators to experience polo firsthand, alongside structured polo lessons for riders of all skill levels. Founded as part of an effort to grow the sport locally, the Goochland Polo Club aims to foster community engagement and encourage broader participation across the region.

Saddle Up!   

Whether you're passing through Central Virginia or returning to a long-lost hobby, horseback riding in the Richmond region offers both accessibility and depth. With trail rides available just outside the city at places like Brandywine Farms, and advanced instruction offered at top barns such as Pine Crest Farm and JREC, riders can engage with Virginia’s natural beauty and equestrian traditions from a new vantage point.