The Directory
Kid friendly businesses, organizations and services in the Des Moines area.
Whether you live in Ankeny, Altoona, Clive, Des Moines, Grimes, Indianola, Johnston, Urbandale, Waukee, Windsor Heights, West Des Moines or beyond, find the local resources your family needs in in the dsm4kids Directory!
While all submissions are considered, inclusion in the Directory is based on relevance. Businesses or organizations outside of Central Iowa or primarily geared toward adults may not be listed.
Barnum Equestrian Center was completed in May 2004 and is home to a thriving lessons program (currently serving about 25 riders weekly), Horses Helping People, and serves thousands of trail riders every year. In addition, many local and regional groups have enjoyed using Barnum Equestrian Center as their venue for shows, clinics, saddle club outings, and other special events. All of our staff are certified either through AAHS or Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA), and are well-trained in leading guests in safe. educational, fun equine activities.
Each day, campers will spend the morning at the barn and the afternoon swimming at camp. Campers will learn horse science, English riding, and barn maintenance. Each camper will be assigned a horse and will be instructed based on their riding experience. Beginners to advanced riders are welcome! Riding will depend on day to day weather conditions. Staff reserve the right to remove a rider from the horse if either is in danger. Camp Hantesa provides trained horses and staff for all riding programs. **In order to participate, ALL campers are required to wear long pants, boots, and helmets. Helmets are provided by Camp Hantesa. Boots are available on a limited basis**
Irish Run Farms is a little piece of heaven located adjacent to Waterworks Park in Des Moines, Iowa. It is a full-service, private equestrian training facility; offering boarding, training, lessons, sales and leases. Though the stable is literally in the “heart of the city,” it is a bucolic setting with plenty of room to graze horses, socialize and picnic. Sunday morning trail rides and bonfires are regular events when weather permits. Students and boarders alike enjoy the warm demeanor and expertise of trainer Rae Doerring and the camaraderie of our barn family.
Jester Park Equestrian Center is a part of Polk County Conservation. Established in 1998, the Center operates year-round, providing outdoor and horse recreational activities for all ages.
Jester Park Equestrian Center is a full-scale, public equine facility with many activities to offer the members of Polk County.
In the summer, enjoy taking a guided trail ride on one of our many seasoned trail horses. Enjoy the scenic Saylorville Lake and learn about the local habitats and wildlife found here.
In the fall, come out for a family wagon ride and enjoy the changing colors of the leaves. In October, come for our pumpkin patch and Halloween Event.
In the winter, bring the kids to come and meet Santa, and to enjoy a traditional sleigh ride. We offer hot chocolate and ‘smores to make the outing complete.
In the spring, the barn is always buzzing with pony rides, birthday parties, and lessons for kids of all ages.
Whatever the season- come on out to Jester Park Equestrian Center, and let us share a little bit of our happiness thru horses with you!
Horseback Riding Lessons and Camp
Valley Park Stables houses approximately 55 happy horses on its property. Located in beautiful Raccoon Valley, just 5 minutes from downtown Des Moines, Valley Park is an oasis for those looking for the feel of the country just minutes from the city.
Facilities include:
Two barns with 56 box stalls
Indoor and outdoor wash stalls
Two indoor arenas
Three large outdoor arenas
Pastures and paddocks of varying sizes for turnout
Access to beautiful Waterworks Park for trail riding
A wonderful setting to relax, ride and enjoy your horse