Introductory Lesson

A woman riding a brown horse, smiling and wearing a black helmet, black t-shirt, and sunglasses, is being led by another woman in a blue tank top on a dirt riding arena. In the background, other women and horses are present, with lush green trees surrounding the area.

Our 1:00 pm Summer Camp Introductory Lessons start Sunday, April 26th

$20 fee. By appointment only.

Please call us at 301-421-9156 to get on our schedule.

Come meet our wonderful horses, staff and instructors! Have a riding lesson to see how your child likes it. Then we can answer all your questions.

We look forward to meeting you!!

contact us about an introductory lesson
contact us about an introductory lesson
A woman is sitting on a brown horse with purple saddle pads on an outdoor riding arena. Two women are standing beside the horse, one holding the reins near the horse's head and the other adjusting the saddle. In the background, a man is standing, and there are trees and a cloudy sky.

What you can expect

  • All intro lessons start with pointers about personal safety around horses.

  • We’ll pair you with a horse or pony suited to your size and level of experience.

  • For beginners, one of our staff assists with your lesson as the instructor covers riding position and how to walk, halt, and steer your horse. If you wish and your instructor approves, you may also trot.

  • For more experienced riders able to walk, trot and canter, intro lessons allow our instructors to evaluate your skills.

  • After the lesson, we’ll meet with you to discuss your options and help you get signed up!

A young woman is riding a white and brown horse, wearing a helmet, and smiling. A woman walking beside her is holding the horse's reins. There are other riders and horses in the background on a large outdoor riding arena surrounded by green trees.

What we require

  • Please arrive 30 minutes early to fill out our Riding Release Form (you may also do so in advance and bring it with you).

  • If you arrive after 1 p.m., we will ask that you reschedule—NO EXCEPTIONS!

  • $20 fee is due BEFORE your lesson begins, payable by cash or credit card.

  • Riders MUST be at least 5 years old—no exceptions. Kids under age 18 must be accompanied by their parent/guardian.

  • Wear long pants and closed-toed shoes for your safety—we will ask you to reschedule if your clothing is unsuitable.

Thank you for your cooperation!

Woodland Testimonials

  • Woodland truly cares

    “Of all the barns at which I've ridden, Woodland has the nicest, most caring staff and volunteers. They truly care about the horses and it shows in the temperament of the horses.”

    — Susan C.

  • We love the horses and the instructors

    “My daughter has been riding weekly at Woodland for 2 1/2 years and there has never been a day that we were not excited to go - even in the coldest and hottest weather. We love the horses, the instructors with their friendly approach, and the open space where kids can play.”

    — Sarah S.

  • Jordan loved summer camp at Woodland

    “As always, Jordan loved summer camp at Woodland, and as always, we parents did, too! It was great fun, great physical activity, great learning about responsibility. The staff are completely low key and flexible to our family's needs. It's such a pleasure to be there!”

    — Joey R.

  • A great place to learn

    “I have been riding at Woodland for 20 years. It is a great place to learn the proper way to ride.”

    — Peter F.

  • Definitely for the whole family

    “The instructors are top notch and are great with children. This place is definitely for the whole family. They offer lessons for adults, teenagers, and even the little ones in Pony Pals. I've been riding there for 17 years and my daughter has grown up at the barn. They provide more than just the experience of riding. They also teach respect and responsibility of the horses.”

    — Patti B.

  • So many great memories

    “One summer I went to camp and I haven't left since then. My friends and great instructors keep me coming back. I have so many great memories here.”

    — Therese C.

  • Thank you Saddle Club!

    “My daughter Sophia loves taking care of the Woodland horses. She knows a lot about horses, thanks to the Saddle Club. Thank you Saddle Club!”

    — Johnna J.

  • My daughter’s happy place

    “My daughter calls Woodland her ‘happy place.’ The animals always look clean and healthy, surrounded by people who truly love, understand and appreciate them. Woodland offers so many exciting opportunities for all levels and ages that the only challenge is finding the time to participate in all the activities. My favorite part as a parent, though, is the supportive and caring staff: I have the peace of mind knowing that my child is always taken care of in the most warm and nurturing way.”

    — Masha M.

  • My 5-year old daughter will be a horse lover forever

    “My 5-year old daughter participated in Pony Pals Camp for 2 weeks. I was impressed with how much she learned in such a short time. Our family enjoyed the information she shared about horses every evening. She had a wonderful time and misses the horses dearly. After this experience, she will be a horse lover for ever. She has already asked if she can come back next year. The staff is wonderful, friendly and helpful. The program is well run and organized. I highly recommend it. Thanks for a great 2 weeks!”

    — Meredith W.