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California Riding Magazine • April, 2010 Stepp Stables |
Tucked away in the expansive Camp Pendleton Marine Corp base in San Diego County, Stepp Stables offers boarding, lessons/training, trail and pony rides and parties for America’s military families, both active and retired. Accomplished dressage trainer Angie (Gomez) Taylor signed on as stable manager two years ago. She acknowledges that, for some time, the equestrian facility was among the area’s best kept secrets but word has since spread about Stepp Stables’ appeal to horse enthusiasts. Administered by the Marine Corp Community Services department, Stepp Stables has 100 pipe corrals and room for more horses in fenced, group living arrangements. Amenities include three lighted groomed arenas, two bull pens, turn-outs, wash racks, free trailer parking and miles of trails to explore over a variety of easy to challenging terrain. A paved parking lot, an automatic gate and on-site staff from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week ensure both horses’ and boarders’ safety. The pens are 24’ by 24’, with automatic waterers and fly spray systems and individual tack rooms. Feed choices include alfalfa and bermuda and the board rates, in the pens and the pen lot, are reasonable. Taylor relays that Stepp Stables’ trail rides are becoming increasingly popular since the addition of intermediate and advanced level treks. “A lot of military people grew up riding, so the beginning rides did not appeal to them.” Intermediate excursions are conducted at the walk and trot, while advanced rides include cantering when appropriate. Best of all, “You feel like you are out in the wilderness,” Taylor notes. “We get some ocean breezes and we see some wildlife—coyotes, bobcats, deer—none of which bother us, and a lot of great birds.” Springtime brings beautiful flowers, too. Although the stable gives riders access to wide open spaces, it is conveniently located near the inland North San Diego County town of Bonsall. Trail riders must be at least 7 years of age, but younger kids get the fun of Stepp Stables’ pony rides and the facility is a great place for horse-themed birthday parties and other special events. Non-military equestrians are welcome to partake of Stepp Stables’ various services, so long as they are sponsored and accompanied by a member of the military.
For more information on Stepp Stables, please visit www.steppstables.com or call 760-725-5094. |
