About Us
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.
The Stable maintains approximately 30 horses of different types and breeds for your enjoyment. We have horses of all different levels and will match you with a horse that meets your needs. Our trail rides are guided by experienced wranglers, who lead you through 3 plus miles of private trails in the heart of Giant City State Park. We also have two riding arenas for lessons, camps and therapeutic riding.
Giant City Stables is the home of Specialized Equine Services and Therapeutic Riding (SES), a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. We provide life-changing equine therapy to individuals with a variety of disabilities in Southern Illinois. For more information about SES, please visit our website at sestehrapeuticriding.com.
Giant City Stables is owned and operated by Ramona Twellman. Ramona is a certified instructor with Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) and an International Society of Rider Biomechanics Coach with over 20 years of horsemanship experience. In a past life, Ramona was a PGA and LPGA Golf professional for 18 years before purchasing Giant City Stables in 2002.She brings over 30 years of teaching experience working with kids and adults of various experience levels