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    Desperado Trail Rides

    4.8 (17 reviews)

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    Trail ride through field
    Surf M.

    We spent a wonderful afternoon on a horse trail at Desperado Horse Farm. Highly recommend adding a horseback ride to you beach trip. Chris, the owner, was very laid back and a great horse whisper. Can't wait to go again! You can reach Chris via FB messenger or at 910-617-3563 #horsebackriding #TopsailIsland #SurfCityNC

    Guide yanking the reigns. So harsh/unnecessary!
    Jenni S.

    The first thing I witnessed here was a man (who I assume was Chris) screaming at the horses telling the child he was "teaching" how to treat them to do the same. As he did so he pulled violently on the horse I was to ride's reigns. The horse lurched forward and I could tell this was not my kind of place. When I mounted he yelled aggressively at me to pull the stirrup to adjust it (I've been riding for years and while I'm no expert I'm also not a first timer), then added angrily "that's not the stirrup!". It was already a jarring, unpleasant experience and I felt deeply sorry for the beautiful majestic animals that are forced to endure this energy. I told him I didn't want to do the ride and dismounted explaining that I've never seen horses treated that way (punctuating my statement by saying "they deserve better."). This place is terrible! So glad I left!!

    Dr. Joe C.

    My wife and I had a wonderful time riding today with Chris. Chris is a fascinating person to talk to and is willing to take the time and teach even a first time rider such as myself how to control the horse, build confidence and have a great time. I've definitely found a new interest and will be going back again. I highly recommend Desperado horse farms. I especially recommend this to those who have never ridden before because Chris is a very patient teacher that encourages you to push your boundaries and learn.

    My girlfriend and I riding on Sundance(left) and Savannah(right).

    Went on a 1 hour trail ride on Sundance and he was perfect, it was my first time riding a horse and he was a patient horse. Went with my family and they loved it as well. The Trail Guide Chris was very helpful as well making sure we was riding correctly as to not hurt ourselves or the horses. Already plan on going back within 2 months. Looking forward to it.

    Ashlyn A.

    Today was my first day horseback riding and Chris was the best teacher I could have asked for. He is encouraging, helpful, corrective, and really motivates you gain the confidence you need to ride such a powerful animal. It was such an experience to be able to walk, trot, and canter all in one lesson and it's a day I'll never forget! I will definitely be back

    Anna D.

    Hands down the best ride my Husband and I have ever had. Chris taught us so much, was very thorough and knowledgeable. The trail was beautiful! We even trotted and cantered together. $60 a person, can't be that! Made my birthday very special, can't wait to come back.

    Tyrisha I.

    My boyfriend and I did a trail ride this morning. It was such an amazing experience. Chris was so patient with us and taught us what to do throughout the entire ride. We went early in the morning, so it wasn't too hot which was perfect for us. I wore shorts and it was a little difficult while riding, but definitely wear narrow shoes for the foot pedals and pants. Chris was very informative and engaging. He made it an incredible experience for us and we will definitely return!

    Danielle B.

    Amazing time with Desperado! Our group had beginners to experienced riders and it was fun for all. Chris made sure to give us the best experience possible! We can't wait to visit again.

    Had a great experience ! Would recommend & would do it again In a heartbeat . Chris is awesome , kind & funny . I was a bit nervous since I'm a first timer but Chris gives u that tough love you can do it attitude & encourages you because he truly wants you to learn and enjoy the horses . Great for beginners & everyone !!

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    5 years ago

    We had a blast! Chris is amazing and did a great job teaching us how to ride. We are planning a trip for next year and will be back!

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    Ask the Community - Desperado Trail Rides

    Review Highlights - Desperado Trail Rides

    He is encouraging, helpful, corrective, and really motivates you gain the confidence you need to ride such a powerful animal.

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    1 Oak Equestrian Club - Nice group lessons

    1 Oak Equestrian Club

    4.2(5 reviews)
    2.2 mi

    If you want to work with one of the most dishonest you'll ever meet, this is the place to go…read more Naama, the owner, is an awful person. She constantly cancels lessons and the lessons she shows up to have too many people to learn anything. She will make big promises while she talks behind your back about how she doesn't actually plan to follow through. She will string you along and use you for her benefit. She talks badly about everyone, to everyone. She buys lame or old horses for cheap and sells them for triple their value to clients who trust her without disclosing their issues. Don't ever let her handle your payments because she will tell you a higher price and steal some off the top. She will charge you for training you will never receive. She will look you in the eye and lie right to your face. On top of it, the horses are not well cared for. They are frequently out of hay, sometimes for days. Many are extremely thin with ribs, spine, and hips showing. The fences are always broken and dangerous. The barn is hot and has more flies than you've ever seen in one place. She is a hoarder, collecting way more horses than she can keep up with. She allows old horses with soundness issues to be used and abused- like the lesson horse with DSLD being sold and encouraged to run hard. SO many people have gotten sick of it and left for good reason. She doesn't care about the horses or the people. She also does not keep a safe space for riding- allowing her dogs and young child to run in and out and play in the ring while lessons are going on. The place looks like a dump most of the time, including needles lying around random places. I could go on and on but this is just not a person or business anyone should support. And in response to those that are "saddened" by my review, thieves don't deserve a discussion. I am simply trying to prevent more people from being taken. Con artists don't get you because they seem like nasty people, they get you because they seem perfectly safe and get you to trust them. You won't realize you're a victim until it's too late. She is lucky she hasn't been sued. Heed my warning or don't, but don't be foolish enough to think you are exempt from greed.

    My daughter started taking riding lessons back in September and has already grown so much. Her…read moretrainer Jessica is amazing. Every time we go there everyone is friendly and welcoming and the horses are very well taken care of.

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    1 Oak Equestrian Club
    1 Oak Equestrian Club
    1 Oak Equestrian Club - Wonderful horses & facility!

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    Wonderful horses & facility!

    Desperado Trail Rides - horsebackriding - Updated May 2026

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