Forest Riding Academy

There are no longer any riding lessons given here. This is now a boarding stable. It is a diamond in the rough. Nestled in the midst of Harold State Forest, it is a trail riders dream. However more importantly is the CARE that is given by the Leports. Their yrs. of experience and the dedication to the well being of your horse is obvious. Horses have individual turnouts,clean stalls,and plenty of fresh water , and fed twice daily. There is a riding ring as well as a round pen. The Laports live on site, and welcome boarders as part of their family. The boarders are all friendly and supportive. Speaking as a boarder of 8 yrs. presently. more

This barn is truly invested in you horse's needs. The horses are always put first. Joe and Donna have been in the business for years and are extremely knowledge and treat you like family. The horses always have food and water. The stalls are always immaculate. I have boarded at many barns where I had to have fellow boarders check on my horse because the care was sub par and did my own stall....what a nice change it is to never have to worry because Joe and Donna are so great! \r \r The barn has backyard access to miles of wonderful trails. Despite having ridden at the barn for 6+ years, I am always finding new ones! Joe and other boarders are always great about putting up postings for hunting season to keep everyone safe. \r \r While they do not have a trainer at the barn, outside trainers are more than welcome (and they don't charge you a ring fee). There are several trainers that already come to the barn frequently. Be sure to talk to the boarders and they would be happy to give you more information.\r \r If you are looking for the best care for your horse and for great new friends, do not hesitate to stop by the barn and check it out (Saturdays and Sundays are ideal this is their busiest time of the week...and in my opinion the owners and boarders are what makes this barn so great!). more

One reason why it's the best barn I've ever boarded at is due to the people. Joe and Donna (and Top Hand) take amazing care of all the horses day in and day out. The horses are always fed, watered and in clean stalls. I never have to worry about my horse's care when I'm not there. They keep a watchful eye and will let you know if anything is out of the norm. It's great peace of mind. The people I've met there and trail ride with on a regular basis have become great friends. We all take care of each others horse if one of us can't make it to the barn and share a love and passion for horses and animals in general. And the trails! Miles of beautiful woods, ponds, campgrounds and pine forests. Some spots are absolutely breath taking. I highly recommend visiting and talking to some of the boarders if you're considering moving your horse. It will be worth your time. Pros: happy, well cared for horses and great people Cons: not modern facilities, but has all the essentials more

I completely agree with the first review. Forest Riding Academy is truly a diamond in the rough. I boarded two horses there, and they we (my horses and I) were always treated fabulously. It may not look like much, but Joe and Donna keep the horses all really well taken care of. Also, everyone there is very knowledgeable about horses and always willing to lend a hand. There is ample room to exercise your horse: a large outdoor ring, and miles and miles of trails. While I was there, I was even given an informal open invitation to tag along on group trail rides. During the hunting season, there were reminders everywhere about being careful and wearing neon colors in the forest. It really is a phenomenal program, no matter whether or not there are lessons available. I would highly recommend this barn to anyone. Plus, the prices are great. more

But the LaPorts keep the barn clean, stalls even cleaner, will turn out the horse for you, feed what you want your horse to have, fresh clean water all the time ,miles and miles of trails in Harold Parker State Forest. The Boarders are so friendly, and very willing to help other boarders if asked. This is a diamond in the rough. A must see, and check out what they have to offer. No they don't give lessons, but any boarder or the owners can tell you where the best places are to take lessons. Pros: The place doesn't look like much, but is very clean Cons: The horses are healthy and happy as the owners of the horses are!! more

The Forest Riding Academy does not give any riding lessons. more