Horizons East - Livermore, California

Barron F.

I am writing this review about their children's horse riding camp. Our boys ( 8 and 5 ) absolutely loved this five day equestrian camp. Our little guy was a little nervous but the staff was so kind and sweet with him. He even got really attached to a pony named Chunky. The kids learned everything from grooming and riding to health and biology of horses. We stayed and watched a few of the days and we even learned a ton.
The kids are broken into groups and get 20-40 minutes of riding each day. if you're interested in signing up your kid(s) for horse camp this is a great place to start. #Activefamilymagazine

David C.

My daughter and I took at least three lesson with Coach Dakota. The process is this.

First, you will have to contact them through their website or phone. Then one of the organizers will put into a phone text message group. Where she will explain the pricing and what classes are available.
Once you pay the fee. The coach will confirm the booking time. make sure the coach “confirm “the booking time.

A lesson is usually one hour long. You spent the first 20 minutes to brush the horse put on the saddles and wait for everyone to get ready. The actual amount of time spent riding on top of horse is around 40 minute. If you want to spent longer time riding. You have to come early and do everything yourself.

There is usually only one coach so it’s expected to speak up and prepare everything by yourself before you walk out the horse.

Coach Dakota spent a lot of make sure you get the proper form of riding and also she is very energetic and kind with the kids.

A good place to learn horseback riding with kids.

Afifa S.

We had the best experience at the Horizon East, the coaches are knowledgeable and professional. They are passionate about horses, ensuring both safety and enjoyment for riders of all levels.
The facility has well-maintained stables and spacious riding arenas. The views are an added bonus!
My daughter began riding lessons when she was just 4 1/2 years old, and the coaches were patient and kind with her. They personalized each session to suit her needs, creating a positive and supportive learning atmosphere. Over the course of a year, she made remarkable progress in her riding skills and gained valuable insights into horse care, all while building her confidence in the saddle. The experience has been incredibly rewarding for her development as a young rider.

Overall, our experience at Horizon East was exceptional. Whether you're a seasoned rider or looking to start your equestrian journey, I highly recommend this center.

Kendra K.

The summer camp is excellent! My child is very excited to return to camp this year. They offer daily lessons and horse care practice during the camps, so kiddo has learned a ton about horses and is much more confident now.

Rebecca J.

What an amazing place! My daughters have been taking lessons few months now. The staff and owners are wonderful. They really take the time to teach the kids not only how to ride, but how to care for the horses. Safety is always their number one priority. They are kind, dedicated and very accommodating. I've had to change a lesson day a couple of times, and have always been able to get on the schedule within a reasonable timeframe. I highly recommend Horizons East!!

TJ K.

Really enjoyed my experience with Horizons East! Dacota has patience with the younger students and makes everyone feel safe and confident. Each lesson is tailored to the rider’s ability, and the horses are happy and well cared for- 100% recommend.

Esther P.

Coaches are amazing for adult lessons IF you are able to book lessons with them. My experience for kids are not that great.

This place is very unorganized and needs great improvement.
Lessons are at least 10 minutes late every.single.time. But if you're late, they will cancel the lesson.

Booking lessons is also very inconvenient and useless. You pay first, then you book the lessons. It's first come first serve without set times every month. Once you pay, they let you know their availability. Lessons are booked through a group text with the coaches and it may go couple days before you get a response. It's basically your responsibility to pester them to get the spot secured. Oh, and remember to wait for "confirmed" because even if the dates are suggested by the coaches and you say you're available those days and times, they're not confirmed if they don't reply/confirm

Their current schedule is pretty much for 4:00pm and after wed-Friday and weekends. This keeps changing due to seasons, which I understand, but it is very inconvenient for potential clients with limited availability to pay first then get notified of changes in operation hours.

When I requested morning lessons, they said It is absolutely possible. Shortly after however, I was told it's inconvenient for them, and therefore, they are no longer able to accommodate my lesson request.
Not only that, Due to misunderstandings, there had been no shows or rescheduling on their part as well.
Even then, the owner Sam has the audacity to blame me and say that I should be on time or try to look for office staff. (I was on time and there was no one in the office)
Her mantra is "you have to understand, I am a small business owner."
I think she is forgetting that I am a paying customer, expecting (some) service/lesson.

In addition, they changed the policy and asked me to lead the horse when my son is taking lesson. Mind you, I do not know anything about horses. I have talked to others regarding this and I was told it's not safe at all for both parties (and the horse).
I have also had what's supposed to be a private lesson turn into group lessons due to coaches having to supervise group lessons on the other side.

They charge you material fees, credit card fees, or whatever small fees they can find. They now require 6 to 8 lessons per month. Tacking time is included in the lesson, which will result in 10-15min less than your scheduled session. Imagine having a 30 min lesson and half is spent away without riding time.

All in all, I would avoid this place unless you like to burn money.

Ishaan S.

I love this place with all my will. I met the first horse named Toby and he is really cute. I still go for lessons and I will continue throughout my life. I love the trainers and their patient teaching. Love this place 😊