Join Us at the Barn

Explore Nature’s Beauty on Horseback at Giant City Stables!

Giant City Stables is located just inside Giant City State Park, nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, just minutes south of Carbondale.

The area was named for the unique impressions made by its massive sandstone structures. The natural splendor of Giant City has made it a renowned retreat that attracts more than 1.2 million visitors annually. Visitors to the park enjoy many amenities, including camping, hiking, playgrounds, and the food and overnight accommodations at the Giant City Park Lodge.

The State Park is 4000 acres of spectacular countryside with a 12 mile horse trail around the park. The River to River Trail is part of the 12 mile loop.

A little more about Giant City Stables

The Inception of Giant City Stables

Giant City Stables started with a conversation between Giant City Lodge concessionaire Richard Kelley and concession coordinator Al Hurrelbrink in 1982. In partnership with IL Dept. of Conservation (now IDNR), all involved believed the stables offering guided rides would be an asset and a welcome attraction to the park.

Site Superintendent Robert (Bob) Kristoff and his park staff laid out the site, pastures, and erected fencing. Under the direction of architect Larry Kennedy, the Conservations Hotshot Crew built the 12 stall stable, which opened up in the summer of 1984. Once opened, the stable allowed visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful natural landscape of the park while on horseback, just like cowboys and cowgirls intended.

Our Journey and Where We are Today

Carole (Hadden) Spa bought Giant City Stables in 1995 and brought therapeutic riding to Southern Illinois.

Ramona Twellman started her career with Giant City Stables working under Carole and then became a certified instructor through PATH Intl. (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship). She purchased Giant City Stables in 2002. The stables still offers therapeutic riding lessons, trail rides, and lessons. They have grown to also offer summer horse camps.