Can I bring my own horse?

This program is geared towards group participation at the facility; bringing personal horses usually isn’t permitted.

Are ages of all participants suitable?

Children and adults of all ages are welcome; children under 5 may require extra assistance.

Is prior riding experience necessary?

No, this experience is designed for all skill levels, including complete beginners.

Comfortable, close-toed shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Are facilities accessible for disabled visitors?

The center accommodates many accessibility needs; please contact them ahead of your visit.

Can we picnic after activities?

Yes, there are scenic picnic areas available within the park.

Equestrian Wilderness at Jester Park Equestrian Center | Farm

Located within the scenic landscape of Jester Park, the Jester Park Equestrian Center offers an engaging blend of outdoor education and horseback riding that appeals to all ages. This spot stands out as a premier destination for group outings, combining the rustic charm of Iowa’s countryside with dedicated facilities designed for an immersive equine experience. Established amidst rolling fields and shaded paddocks, the center features well-maintained riding trails, scenic picnic areas, and educational stations about horse care, making it ideal for school trips, family outings, or community groups. Riders and non-riders alike can learn about the biology and behavior of horses while getting up close with these majestic animals. The center’s guided tours delve into horse grooming, tack handling, and stable management, creating a hands-on environment that’s both fun and informative. The surrounding natural landscape is stunning year-round, with spring blooms, summer greenery, fall foliage, and mild winter vistas. Special features include a large outdoor riding arena, scenic trails through the park, and an open-air pavilion perfect for post-ride picnics and group activities. This location is part of the larger Jester Park area, a well-loved outdoor recreation hub with a rich history rooted in Iowa’s equestrian traditions. Visiting here means stepping into a genuine rural setting where education and adventure go hand-in-hand, making it a standout choice for those seeking a unique outdoor experience in the Midwest. Whether you’re interested in riding, animal education, or simple outdoor fun, the center’s welcoming atmosphere and scenic views will leave a lasting impression on every visitor.

About Jester Park Equestrian Center

Jester Park Equestrian Center in Granger, Iowa, operates as a public equestrian facility offering a variety of horse-related experiences for visitors of all ages. The center presents guided trail rides through Jester Park’s timber overlooking Saylorville Lake, seasonal horse-drawn rides and holiday wagon or sleigh outings, and special programs such as Pony Tales story-and-meet sessions and field trips designed for educational groups. Women’s workshops use horse interaction for personal growth on a waitlist basis, and several popular activities maintain waitlists to manage capacity. The facility also offers a John Thomas Poppy Tower plaque program that allows individuals to purchase a stainless steel plaque mounted on decorative poppy tower leaves along the Brandon Lay Challenge Trail as a lasting tribute.

Field trips run from spring through fall and include hands-on opportunities to learn about horse care, picnic areas, and guided interaction. Guided trail rides provide wrangler-led instruction for beginners and families. Holiday horse-drawn rides last approximately 30 minutes and operate on sleighs or wagons when available. The center emphasizes guest safety, pre-registration for select workshops, and organized waitlist management to accommodate demand. As a feature within Jester Park, the equestrian center connects visitors to the park landscape and lake views while offering structured equine experiences, educational outreach for groups, and commemorative plaque placement along a public trail. Programs are scheduled seasonally and require reservations for many offerings; staff manage group logistics, safety briefings, and horse handling instruction to ensure a well-organized visit for schools, families, and private groups and community partners.