Authentic Texas ranch horseback riding. Come for the day, or come for the stay.
At Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort, our guided horseback riding adventures take guests through the Piney Woods of East Texas, across open meadows, beside Dream Lake where guests often stop to make a wish, past rustic barns and weathered horse-drawn carriages, through peaceful pastures, and beneath a canopy of towering pines. Gentle horses, experienced wranglers, and miles of scenic trails come together to create a horseback riding experience guests have returned to for decades.
What Makes Our Horseback Riding Different
- Guided trail rides beneath a canopy of towering East Texas pines.
- Horses matched to riders based on experience, size, and personality.
- Small guided groups that let you ride at a comfortable pace, whether you’d rather talk and laugh with friends or quietly enjoy the peaceful countryside.
- Family owned, cared for, and operated for decades.
- Turn your trail ride into a vacation in one of our rustic yet modern cabins tucked among the pines or in one of our lake houses beside private Deer Lake. Visit the horse you rode anytime during your stay.
- Fishing, kayaking, hiking, pickleball, UTV rentals, a splash pad, escape rooms, a petting corral, and more, all on the same 850-acre guest ranch.
Meet the Horses
Every trail horse has its own fun personality. Some naturally like leading the group like Lucas. Others are happy following along like Sid, Bubba and Teddy. Some are really fast walkers like Wildfire and some are so gentle they wait for your move like Cody. Some have been exploring our trails for many years like Billy Ray, and some are more recently trained like Tex! Some are ideal for first-time riders, while others are better suited for experienced riders. Whenever possible, we match horses to riders based on experience, size, and personality.
One thing we’ve learned after decades of guided horseback riding is that guests don’t just remember the trail ride, they remember the horse. We think the horses remember them, too! Many guests return hoping to ride the same horse again.
Every Season Brings Something Different
No two horseback riding adventures are ever exactly alike. Spring fills the woods with blooming white dogwood trees, fresh green leaves, and wildflowers. Summer offers cool shade beneath the pine canopy. Fall paints the hardwoods with shades of orange, gold, and deep red. Winter opens long views through the woods and, every now and then, surprises us with a blanket of snow.
Along the trails you may spot deer, hawks, turtles, rabbits, armadillos, and other East Texas wildlife that quietly call the ranch home.
Turn a Trail Ride Into a Vacation
One of the things that makes a horseback riding vacation at Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort different is that the experience doesn’t end when the trail ride is over. Guests staying on the ranch are welcome to visit the horse they rode anytime during their stay! Bring a few approved treats, spend a little extra time together, and don’t be surprised if you’ve made a new best friend. For many guests, that’s one of the most memorable parts of their vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need horseback riding experience?
No. First-time riders are always welcome. Our experienced wranglers will help you feel comfortable before your guided horseback riding adventure begins.
Is horseback riding for beginners available?
Yes. Many of our guests have never ridden before. We carefully match horses to riders and guide you through the entire experience.
Can adults and kids ride?
Absolutely. Our horseback riding experiences are popular with couples, families, groups of friends, and solo travelers.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes. Riders must weigh 250 pounds or less for the safety of our horses.
How old do children need to be?
Regular trail rides are available for guests ages 8 and older. Children under 8 can enjoy a lead-line ride with one of our experienced wranglers.
Do I need reservations?
Yes. Reservations are required so we can prepare the right horses for your group.
Whether you’re planning a day trip, searching for horseback riding in Texas, or looking for a memorable guest ranch vacation, we hope you’ll discover why so many guests return to Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort year after year.
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