Join Our Family at Rocking J Stables

Welcome to Rocking J Stables! We are a family-owned and operated equestrian facility dedicated to providing exceptional riding instruction and personalized service in a peaceful, welcoming environment. Located less than 15 miles from downtown Dallas, our stables offer a relaxing escape where riders of all experience levels can develop their skills, build confidence, and discover the joy of horsemanship.

We offer Hunter/Jumper and Western riding lessons, with instruction tailored to each student's abilities and goals. Whether you're a first-time rider or an experienced equestrian, we're excited to be part of your riding journey!

Our Riding Lesson Program

At Rocking J Stables, we believe that great horsemanship begins with a strong foundation, both in and out of the saddle.

Each 1½-hour lesson includes approximately 30 minutes of hands-on instruction in horse safety, grooming, and tacking, followed by nearly an hour of riding.

Beginning riders learn essential skills, including mounting, walking with assistance, and progressing toward independent riding. As students gain experience, lessons become more advanced, with an emphasis on developing balance, control, confidence, and a deeper understanding of their horses.

Private & Group Lessons

All new students begin with a private assessment lesson. This allows our instructors to evaluate each rider's experience and abilities and recommend the most appropriate lesson format.

Group lessons are available to students who can independently groom and tack their horses and demonstrate control at both the walk and trot. Groups are limited to four riders and organized by skill level to provide a safe, productive, and enjoyable learning experience.

Riding Levels

Our program uses the Pony Club Local-Level Certifications as benchmarks to assess student progress and guide lesson placement. We offer five progressive levels designed to help riders develop their skills and become knowledgeable, confident, and independent equestrians.

Beginner

D1 — Introduction to Horsemanship

Students learn the fundamentals of horse safety, grooming, handling, and riding while developing confidence both on the ground and in the saddle.

Developing Beginner

D2 — Building Essential Skills

Students expand their riding and horse care knowledge, begin understanding daily care routines, and practice basic skills with assistance as needed.

Advancing Beginner

D3 — Growing Confidence & Independence

Students demonstrate greater independence in riding and horse management, perform essential tasks without assistance, and confidently discuss horse care using appropriate equestrian terminology.

Intermediate

C1 — Developing Balance & Control

Riders develop a deeper understanding of how their actions influence their horses. Instruction emphasizes effective use of natural aids, balanced and rhythmic movement, and developing light, consistent contact.

Advancing Intermediate

C2 — Refining Skills & Horsemanship

Riders demonstrate confidence in horse management and greater independence in the saddle. They refine their balance, position, and coordinated use of aids while encouraging forward movement, rhythm, and consistent contact.

Lesson Pricing

Private Riding Lessons

$110 per person

1½ hours

Personalized, one-on-one instruction tailored to each rider's experience, abilities, and goals. Required for all new students.

Group Riding Lessons

$95 per person

1½ hours

Small-group instruction for up to four riders of compatible skill levels, offering opportunities to learn and progress alongside fellow equestrians.

Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy

Effective September 1, 2026

We understand that schedules can change. To ensure consistent scheduling for our students, instructors, and horses, please review our lesson policies:

Nonrefundable Payments: All lesson payments are nonrefundable.
Rescheduling: Lessons may be rescheduled within one month of the original lesson date when at least 24 hours' notice is provided.
Late Cancellations: Lessons canceled with less than 24 hours' notice are not eligible for rescheduling or a refund.

Thank you for your understanding and for helping us provide a dependable lesson experience for everyone.

Ready to Ride?

Your equestrian journey starts here! Whether you're discovering horses for the first time or continuing to develop your riding skills, we look forward to welcoming you to the Rocking J Stables family.

Schedule your riding lesson below. We can't wait to meet you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your first visit to Rocking J Stables! Whether you're new to riding or an experienced equestrian, we want you to feel comfortable, confident, and prepared for your time with us.

Where are you located?

We are conveniently located at 2802 S. Country Club Road, Garland, TX 75043, less than 15 miles from downtown Dallas.

When you arrive, please park near the house by the horse trailers. You'll find a pedestrian gate near the barn road that provides access to the barn. One of our team members will meet you there and welcome you to the stables!

What should I wear for riding lessons?

Your comfort and safety are our priorities! For your first lesson, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather, along with the following:

English lessons: Riding breeches or comfortable, fitted pants (please ensure fabric is not slick).
Western lessons: Jeans or comfortable, fitted pants.
Footwear: Riding boots are preferred, but closed-toe shoes with a low heel are acceptable for introductory lessons.
Helmets: Protective riding helmets are mandatory for all riders. We have helmets available for use during lessons.

For students planning to ride regularly, we recommend investing in a properly fitted, ASTM/SEI-certified or Snell-certified equestrian helmet, appropriate riding pants, English or Western riding boots, and riding gloves.

Why do you need my height, weight, and riding experience?

We ask for this information to help us match each rider with a suitable horse and properly fitting saddle. Our goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for both our students and our horses.

As a general guideline, horses should carry no more than approximately 20–25% of their body weight, including the rider and equipment. For this reason, our maximum rider weight is 200 pounds.

If your weight is close to our maximum, we may ask you to step on a scale to confirm that we can safely accommodate you.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety always comes first! If thunderstorms, high winds, or wet and slippery arena conditions make riding unsafe, we will substitute an unmounted horsemanship lesson.

These lessons are an important part of becoming a well-rounded equestrian. Students have the opportunity to explore topics such as horse behavior, riding disciplines, grooming, equine nutrition, first aid, colic awareness, and other essential horse care skills.

Our goal is to help students develop a genuine understanding of horses, not just learn how to ride them.

What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?

We understand that plans sometimes change. To reschedule a lesson, please provide at least 24 hours' notice. Lessons may be rescheduled within one month of the original lesson date.

Cancellations made less than 24 hours before a scheduled lesson, as well as missed appointments, are not eligible for rescheduling. All lesson payments are nonrefundable.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us maintain a consistent schedule for our riders, instructors, and horses.

At what age can my child begin riding lessons?

We recommend that children be at least 7 years old before beginning regular riding lessons. By this age, most children have developed the physical strength, attention span, and coordination needed to participate safely and benefit fully from instruction.

Do you allow tandem riders?

For the safety of our riders and horses, we do not permit tandem riding. Each rider must ride independently on their own horse.

What happens if I am injured during a lesson?

Your safety is extremely important to us. In the event of an injury, we will assess the situation and contact medical professionals at your request or when emergency assistance is necessary.

All riders are required to complete a liability release form before participating in lessons. We also request insurance information in case it is needed during an emergency.

Horseback riding involves inherent risks. Texas law provides certain liability protections for equine activities, subject to statutory exceptions. Please review our liability release carefully before your lesson.

What is the difference between Hunter and Jumper riding?

Although both disciplines involve jumping, they differ in how horses and riders are evaluated.

Hunter: Hunter classes emphasize the horse's movement, jumping style, rhythm, and overall performance. Judges evaluate how smoothly and consistently the horse and rider complete a course.

Jumper: Jumper classes focus on successfully completing a course while avoiding jumping faults. Placings are generally determined by faults, time, or a combination of both.

Our Hunter/Jumper lessons help students develop the balance, technique, and communication skills needed to progress in either discipline.

What will I learn in Western riding lessons?

Our Western instructors bring experience from a variety of disciplines, including reining, cattle work, and barrel racing.

Beginning riders focus on developing a strong foundation in Western horsemanship, including proper riding position, balance, and effective communication through body position and pressure. Students learn to ride confidently at the walk, jog, and lope.

As riders progress, our instructors introduce more specialized skills based on each student's interests and goals.