I was asked to pull my original review of this place down because parents were worried about the reputation of the barn reflecting poorly on their kids. Well. Upon further reflection and new information that has come to light, I feel the right thing to do is inform people how terrible this place is. Do not come here. I'm sure at one point, this was a good place,but it seems like the good people left. Not only is this place on a death spiral grind to survive, it's full of lying, manipulative, toxic people. The place is run by a completely unprofessional human being named Joel Griffin - who has a known track record of harassment and apparently a history of being hostile. If you want a community of riders to grow and share bonds over animals - these are not your people. This is Mean Girls on a budget. The owners work harder at excuses and blame than they do providing the services you pay for. They will not clean your stalls. They will hide the stuff they are supposed to clean under your shavings. You will get extra helpings of passive aggressive behavior if you mention it. Joel, the owner, has no problem spreading rumors and information about anyone's personal lives to anyone who happens to be around. There's no limit, or any filter. He's actually said that he won't answer the calls of some boarders because they annoy him. He is also cheap. Did I mention he was inappropriate? Don't tell him or anyone anything personal unless you want others to know. They will not fix anything for you unless a situation turns into a blow out. Our horse and several other horses have sustained repeated injuries due to stall conditions, and nothing was done about it. They will do the bare minimum with feeding. If you use a slow feeder or have special dietary needs, you're on your own. They will not help. When we discovered a horse living in squalor, and temporarily moved it, they accused us child endangerment. And after getting angry and confronting people about lying and spreading misinformation, there is now a rumor going around saying I threatened to punch a woman . This behavior is ABSOLUTELY NOT OK and it is dangerous. Fortunately we have a couple of witnesses to the contrary, and learned of an illegal recording that was made during that confrontation, so should be easy prove otherwise. We are definitely talking to our attorney about what actions we can take against this place and any slanderous/libelous claims made against us both from the owners and any remaining boarders who just don't seem to get how bad and serious these claims are. They will definitely throw you under the bus, before even considering the acceptance of anything remotely resembling their own accountability. This isn't normal. When we left, due to all of the drama and complete unprofessionalism (not to mention keeping up the stall became a nearly a full time job despite paying for it), we were locked out of our locker, instantly - even tho we had paid for the whole month. We want to go and recover our remaining items and food,, but now don't feel safe or trusting of the people there. You never know what will be said about you next, or what will be manipulated into something else The barn is not secured. Odd people randomly come thru off of the street, and it doesn't feel safe at night. It's sandwiched between railroad tracks full of garbage and the occasional homeless tents, some processing plants... and the 710. There are groups of riders who take over the barn at night, party, get drunk and rowdy. Some say some beat their horses, but the owner turns a blind eye because "money is money". There have been claims that worse behavior towards other boarders has occurred. I cannot personally verify these claims, but I've heard similar stories from unrelated people elsewhere, who had boarded there and left. We have spoken with a few previous IEC boarders now at our new location as well as people from across the city, who all have their own horror stories. This includes vets, horse professionals, caretakers etc. this is obviously a huge problem. Joel is a huge problem. And to the people out there worried about the reputation of the barn... you should be. And you should do something about it. These are your decisions. It's your responsibility. I will not subject my family to this place for one second longer, or cover for one of the worst experiences of my life for the sake of others. That is just irresponsible at this point and my family deserves better. read more

My son and nieces attended the horse camp for a week, and they loved it. The horses are well taken care of, and the camp coordinators were awesome. Thank you, IEC, for providing kids with an awesome learning experience. read more

Imperial Equestrian Center - Horseback Riding Near Me - South Gate, California

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Imperial Equestrian Center is my happy place. We have our Mini, Jesse boarded there. He is a happy well fed little guy. I met Joel and Shona about 25 years ago. My daughter took lessons and we eventually bought a mare. We currently have a home in Texas and a home in California. Two years ago in Texas, a mare I had just bought threw me. I was both injured and traumatized. I have had horses throughout my life, but, have never been so injured that I was afraid. I knew I needed to get over my fear so when we came to California, I went to Imperial. I started with the mini Jesse and slowly got my confidence back. Shona was awesome! She encouraged me to get back on a horse. I have learned so much from both Joel and Shona. This stable is great. You can't please everyone, but to me, it's a great place. read more

Imperial Equestrian Center - Happy boy - Horseback Riding Near Me - South Gate, California

My kids went to IEC for summer horse camp and loved it! We will be coming back every summer. The staff was great and kept the kids busy learning and having fun. read more

Imperial Equestrian Center - Horse camp arts & crafts - Horseback Riding Near Me - South Gate, California

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Just got off the phone with the owner, Joel. I'm searching for a facility for my mare to call home. I'm coming from the IE. All the other places I have called out here don't answer/return calls, or they're super uppity and kinda rude. I'm just a regular person who loves horses. Joel answered all of my questions, and he was friendly, honest, and down to earth. He made me feel welcome and invited me to come down to tour the place. I really like that they are family owned. I feel like this facility is going to be a great fit, and I can't wait to come check it out. Based on my conversation today with Joel and all the reviews and photos, I think we found our facility. Thanks for your time, Joel! Lauren and Lily read more

Imperial Equestrian Center - Horseback Riding Near Me - South Gate, California

It just doesn't feel like summer until I'm back at imperial equestrian Center for summer horse camp! All year long I just wait counting the days till summer horse camp ! I think there's 4 weeks this summer. Please invest in your children and teach them how to conduct themselves with horses. So many fun activities and a place to make lifelong friends read more

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This place is great for kids I have been taking my daughter for lessons for about 4 years now. Everyone is friendly and helpful. There is a mix of people from kids to adults ridding at different times, in the afternoons you get to see a group of western riders leave for a ride! Here and there you see new unpleasant people with miserable lives that like to pass on their negativity and leave bad reviews, but thats really rare here! read more

The people here are incredibly nice and it doesn't take much to strike a friendly conversation. Shona is extremely knowledgeable about horses and always offers great advice. I've even had several other riders boarding here take their time to teach me what they know. Overall, the place is great. Unfortunately, a strange middle-aged couple have been harassing the barn owners lately. Initially, I looked forward to meeting Kate, she presented herself as a professional trainer and coach, until she decided to create a stir here. Only a week after boarding, Kate began making legal accusations against the barn for being abusive and dangerous. As a Mexican that never had the privilege of being in a "fancy" upscale equestrian center, I found it pretty offensive. The horses are cared for and the place is well-maintained. It was also mentioned to me that Kate had no shame in making inappropriate sexual commentary to the teenagers that ride here. Accompanied by her husband, Cody, they both constantly make defamatory statements behind yelp burner accounts such as "Martha W." to hide their self-image. Cody was also found screaming at a young woman who was trapped in metal cross ties with a 1,000 pound horse and was behaving so erratically and aggressively, he had to be removed from the property by security. For someone who is associated with Kate, he should've known proper barn etiquette. Para mis vaqueros, este lugar es relajado y divertido. Nadie te molesta aunque hagas una parrillada aquí. Hay mucho espacio para montar alrededor. Trae a tu familia, es un buen lugar para pasearse. read more

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As I mentioned to Joel and Shauna I wish I had met them a very long time ago. Who knew there was such an incredible riding instructor like Shauna in what has been my own backyard for the last almost 30 years. I highly recommend IEC and I'm a retired International Horse Trainer and Riding Instructor. There is simply no other trainer that I have ever met that actually loves horses and is affectionate with them. We are kindred spirits and I mentioned to her the other day that we would have been quite a pair of riding buddies. Unfortunately I am I'll and my ability to care for my horse is greatly comprised and I have decided to retire my beautiful horse. But I have fallen in love with a magnificent black Arabian that lives at IEC and his owner has graciously agreed to let me ride him a few days a week. So I will still be around this really excellent place to not just learn how to ride but to learn how to care for the horse's that are surely in the future of all of the children lucky enough to have found this place. I know the future is still bright at IEC. And it's a pretty nice place for all kinds of animal lovers and will be for a long time. I read more

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Shauna really cares about the well-being of our Horse and our child. We have been at the barn for over two years . She is an amazing woman. She does her best!! The negative recent comment is because of a dispute between a recent client that wrote the review under a fake name . That recent client only boarded there for two months . There is no woman named "Martha" that boarded at the barn. If you go onto "Martha's"page, you'll see that this is someone that does not live in the area nor does she have an active Yelp account it's fake! "Martha." is trying to destroy a business owners entire life. So sad on shame on her!!! read more

My daughter had a great time at Horse Camp! She learned a lot and loved being around the horses. We will be attending horse riding lessons from here as well! We thank you for a great experience:) read more

Imperial Equestrian Center - Horseback Riding Near Me - South Gate, California

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Hidden gem! Hope to continue boarding my horse here for many years to come. Family owned/operated with genuine care for all of their boarders. Initially found IEC and started taking lessons which I looked forward to every week and now I'm lucky enough to have my own horse housed under the best and most knowledgeable care of Shona & Joel! read more

Imperial Equestrian Center - Horseback Riding Near Me - South Gate, California

Horse camp was a wonderful experience for my daughter. Staff is friendly, kind, responsible, and safe. She enjoyed every second. Awesome place! read more

Imperial Equestrian Center - Summer horse camp - Horseback Riding Near Me - South Gate, California

My daughter loves this horse camp. She has been going there for two years. This year she did 3 weeks. I highly recommend to all parents.

The owners are friendly and easy to work with. There are plenty of turnouts and a nice river trail nearby.

My children ages 5 and 7 have LOVED spending the week at IEC for Horse Camp, they are already asking to return next summer! These two city girls have fallen in love with horses and it's all thanks to this wonderful facility and fun program. Staff is great, we are so thankful we found this camp! read more

Best equestrian instruction in the city hands down. Highly recommend for beginners to experienced, 5 stars read more

Imperial Equestrian Center - Horseback Riding Near Me - South Gate, California

We have been clients here since November and have been absolutely blown away by the attention to detail and service provided here at IEC! The owners are extremely personable and willing to accommodate your every need. I can't imagine a better place for our Mare and Filly! read more

Imperial Equestrian Center - Horseback Riding Near Me - South Gate, California

This is the second summer our son Kai attends Horse Camp and he absolutely loves it! Miss Crystal, Vanessa and Miss Mary do an amazing job in teaching children skills and safety on horse riding and care. As a mother, it means alot to me that I can drop off my son and feel confident that not only is my son learning and having fun but that he is safe . Thank you to this amazing team for all that they do to make this camp happen. Our family appreciates it. read more

Everything about this place is amazing! I have a daughter who is very interested in horses and wanted lessons for her 7th birthday (May 12) My mom found Imperial Equestrian Center, unbeknownst to me I use to pass by here for over a year taking my son to school. Long story short my daughter had her birthday lesson with Mariann who is so awesome! Shona, Crystal, Mariann and all the other staff are phenomenal!! My daughter loves going to the center and just recently attended the Summer Horse Camp. Everyone is down to earth and sincerely love what they do. If you're looking for horse lessons this is absolutely the BEST place hands down! read more

Imperial Equestrian Center is an amazing place to board your horse and ride! I have been there for 20 years and my horses are so well taken care of and looked after by the staff and owners. They are so attentive and always accommodating when I need help with my horse. Everyone is so nice and it's is an amazing atomsshpere to ride in. All of the volunteers are so cool and friendly and helpful as well! Everyone that works and rides there are truly fantastic amazing individuals! I drive from Redondo Just to have my horses there to be in a perfect atom sphere. The facilities are awesome so many rings to ride in and great stalls for the horses. They have a amazing lesson program for young or old at reasonable prices! Kids love to ride here! It is truly the best hidden secret in South Bay to board your horse! read more

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I'm glad I left the owner Joel is rude to people, he would also "forget" to feed my horse, I caught that multiple times, plus the hay wasnt always good, it's a nice rancho just have to be careful and call him out on these things, read more

Summer horse camp was a big hit again this year. Miss Crystal, Vanessa & Maryann all were great! Thanks IEC!

By far one of the best summer experiences my daughter had this year. The entire staff at Imperial equestrian center are very kind and caring. They love what they do & it shows. I highly recommend IEC for summer horse camp as well as ridding lessons. read more

Imperial Equestrian Center continues to pass their love and knowledge of horses and riding to my daughter. Shona and Hailey are both very professional. This is an amazing place for all. read more

Amazing lessons by the trainer Shona!!!! Dedicated and generous, I'm learning so much at this wonderful equestrian center. It's beyond beyond my wildest dreams coming true with riding! Thank you IEC!!!! read more

Thank you, Joel and Shona for everything you've done to help me and my boy! As you know, I first brought my damaged rescue horse to you in September 2018. I knew I'd found the perfect place after meeting you and getting a tour of your Imperial Equestrian Center. I love that you treat my horse, and every other horse, as your own. Thank you for always making sure my boy gets the greenest, cleanest hay for breakfast and dinner! You have taught and encouraged me in my effort to gain the trust of a horse who had been damaged by abuse. In fact, your contagious love for, and knowledge about, horses has caused everyone at your facility to show me how to help my horse to live his best life. It has been a rewarding experience to see my horse get better as the result of loving people who also provide for him a safe, comfortable and clean home. I can't say enough about you guys. We wouldn't be where we are today without you! read more

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The BEST place ever! Shona is so nice and a great. I would give 100 stars if I could. Thank you for making my daughters birthday so extra special. read more

Joel, Shawna and Hailey were very good to my dad and his horses, especially on short notice. They are very capable, I recommend them if you have green inexperienced horses like ours were. In 10 days we got the results we needed to take them to train at the racetrack. Thank you! read more

I was extremely appreciative due to Shona being able to squeeze me and my grand daughter in at such very short notice. My 6 yr old grand daughter had a scary experience with her first encounter with a horse and has been afraid every since. She was SO comfortable with Shona & her daughter Hailey who were beyond patient with her. She will be taking more riding lesson here from now on. GREAT EXPERIENCE! :-) Thanks a bunch ladies, Skye read more

Shona is truly an amazing instructor. She has a great eye for catching all your mistakes and the patience to explain and show you exactly how to fix your mistakes. IEC is such a great place, a 5 Star review doesn't even do it justice. This is simply a nice family run business that cares about people and horses. Everyone who is here is happy, friendly and welcoming whether you are new to horses or have been around them your whole life. The facility is clean and well taken care of. If you are thinking about taking lessons here, do it! It's well worth it. I go here for lessons and can't stop recommending this place to everyone I know and meet! read more

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Love this place! Myself and my kids love horseback riding. My daughter is excited for her upcoming riding lessons.

Don't give your money to this business. I boarded my horse for 4 yrs. Joel charges people differemt prices on stall fees based off of your gender or race and does not repair anything. All wagons have holes, all water feeders leak, only some of the lights work. JOEL IS RACIST & HOMOPHOBIC. Too cheap to hire help so it is him and his wife cleaning the stalls and that means nothing else ever gets worked on around the property. If you tell him something is broke he will complain and take way too long to fix it. THE OWNER CHANGED 90% OF THE WATER TO RECYCLED WATER TO SAVE MONEY. Womens restroom is always broke so we had to use the men's.. rarely had soap and toilet paper. Joel complains to boarders about using the arena lights because he is cheap. All people leave this barn on bad terms with Joel. Same story no matter what store or place I go....he has a horrible demeanor and he talks to his wife like she is a 2nd class citizen. read more

Shona is an amazing instructor. I took 5 lessons with her and she was patient and super friendly. I was able to learn so much from her in such a short time. I learned how to prep the horse to ride and how to ride the horse. Shona choses a horse that will work with you to make sure you have a great experience. I will definitely return to her to further my riding knowledge since she knows so much about horses. You can tell she really cares for her horses. I will definitely return to her and recommend people to come and learn to ride from her. She's amazing. read more

We have been coming here for the past 7 years. Shona, Joel, and Valerie are all wonderful people. Shona and Val have both been giving my daughter riding lessons, and throughout the years we have been able to visit different stables and no one else around has the passion that they have for not only the horses but the people as well. They focus on form and matching the rider with the right horse after all both rider and horse have to be a good fit other wise it just doesnt work. They are great advocates for building trust with their lesson horses and teaching their students its important to let the horse know they have done a good job. Watching their students ride is a thing of beauty. You will not find a better stable than the IEC when your here they treat you like family. read more

This is a great place! My daughter has been taking lessons for two years from Shona. She works well with her students, caring not only about their safety and progress, but also getting to know and understand each student so she can help them better. read more

Shona is a super nice woman and a great horse lady ! She and Joel boarded my dinitri for 4 years when I first came to la :)

This stable is above and beyond. Please ignore the review claiming bad hay. The pictures were not taken at IEC, it is not their hay, and we believe the slanderous remarks were posted by a competitor. read more

Boarded my horses there for over a decade and they give the best value for service I have seen in a non private stable in Los Angeles. It has multiple arenas however if you wish for something different it is located 500 yards up the trail from a horse friendly public park with arenas to use, and they have trailer parking at a very reasonable rate. While I was there I only saw the evolution of the facility not decline. As long as Joel and Shona are there expect the facilities to only get better. I would recommend it to my best friend. I loved it there. Elise D read more

Our eight year old granddaughter just had her first horse riding lesson and described it as "MAGICAL." She was disappointed that we couldn't go back the following day. Shona is an outstanding teacher - patient, caring and just simply remarkable with kids. We highly recommend to anyone who is even thinking about lessons. Thank you Shona! read more