MHIB launched a statewide network of 35 Horse Discovery Centers in 15 counties in April 2015. These centers are part of a volunteer, certified program of already existing licensed stables that welcome the general public of all ages and experience levels to learn about horses in a knowledgeable and friendly environment. The breadth and diversity of the stables in the Discovery Center network is wide and deep. They range from trail riding centers to Western riding operations to horse rescues and stables offering summer camps, English equitation, even Civil War re-enactments. Geographically they are located in all regions of the state. MHIB invited it's more than 700 licensed stables to volunteer to become a Horse Discover Center if they were willing to meet stringent criteria and eagerly welcome newcomers with open arms to educate them about horses and horsemanship. Criteria included proof of commercial liability insurance; written programs and procedures addressing safety rules and public outreach; clean, sanitary conditions, equipment, and facilities; and of course, well cared for and healthy horses!  Visit one of our HDC's today!

What does it mean to be a Horse Discovery Center?  Horse Discovery Centers are licensed stables that strive to provide the general public with a safe, friendly, and educational experience, particularly for those individuals who have never or rarely experienced horses personally.

MHIB has developed a network of licensed equine facilities that can offer tours, demonstrations, educational programs, and riding experiences to individuals and groups for free or minimal fees. Horse Discovery Centers are Maryland's gateway to bring people to the entire industry via your stable gates!
Would you like to be a part of the HDC network?

See our guidelines below and apply today!

Applications are will Open again on December 2021

Applications to become an HDC open every two years - Horse Discovery Centers renew each year and attend an Annual Meeting prior to the deadline.

Click here for HDC Guidelines

Email Anne Litz for more information anne.litz@maryland.gov

Click below to learn more about each HDC! 

A Moment in Time ​· Camp Letts Equestrian Center YMCA · Chesapeake Therapeutic Riding · Clark’s Elioak Farm · Coexist Stables · Days End Farm Horse Rescue · Dun-Pikin Farm · En-Tice-Ment Stables at Obligation Farm · Fairwinds Farm and Stables​ · Foxie G Foundation · Freedom Hill Horse Rescue · Full Moon Farm · Graham Equestrian Center · High Ridge Farm · Holly Ridge Farm Equestrian Center · Linden Farm · Lucky Cricket Farm · Mexico Farms Equestrian Center · Molly Hill Farm · Peaceable Pastures · River Valley Ranch · Rolling Hills Ranch and Freedom Hill Therapeutic Riding Program · Rose of Sharon Equestrian School · STAR Equestrian Center · Sweet Rock Stables · Talbot Run Equestrian Center  ·  Talisman Therapeutic Riding · The Big Purple Barn · The Greenwell Foundation · The Retreat at Beckleysville · Vandermere Farm & Stables · vR Growth and Learning Center · Waredaca · Wellspring of Life Farm · Windy Way Horses · Worthmore Equestrian Center​​

Please click here to see our 2019 HDC Year in Review

If you have any questions please email Anne Litz anne.litz@maryland.gov

Press Release for our 2019 Seven New Horse Discovery Centers!

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HDC's by County Map!​

Click here to find the best Horse Discovery Center for you in our 

Searchable HDC Database!