San Diego
San Diego
Horse of the Sun Ranch is a program site of the Armed Serviced YMCA San Diego. Located in the mountains of the Cleveland National Forest, our mission is to connect people with horses—and in doing so, reconnect them with themselves, their families, and the natural world.
We proudly serve our active-duty military families, veterans, and the public, offering respite and retreat programs that provide rest, reflection, and renewal. Through our unique, natural horsemanship approach, visitors learn to build trust with their horse partner from the hoof to mane. Gaining far more than riding skills, the experience focuses on building presence, partnership, and peace.
Our 14 horses, each with their own breed, background, and personality, serve as wise and willing teachers. Whether you’re grooming, leading, or riding, every interaction offers new insights, calm, and opportunities for reflection.
The ranch also offers a place for all ages and backgrounds to connect, grow, and play. Our other programs include:
Other activities range from archery and laser tag to leather crafting and pony rides for kids, designed to deepen bonds, spark joy, and build memories in a mountain setting.
At Horse of the Sun Ranch, we believe in the transformative power of horses and nature. Whether you’re a veteran seeking quiet and connection, a child learning to ride for the first time, or a military family looking for a meaningful day together, you’ll find it here.
Horse of the Sun Ranch: Where horses and nature heal the human spirit!
Ranch Day Camp
Campers get to experience life on a ranch, learn to ride and care for horses. Activities include horseback riding, feeding, grooming, archery, crafts and much more. We have spring, summer, and fall sessions.
Natural Horsemanship Program
Learn natural horsemanship skills both on the ground and in the saddle with our amazing instructors. Whether you are a beginner or experienced rider we have something for you.
We offer several different monthly subscriptions and match you with the perfect horse from our herd. Special rates for Active Duty Military Families, Veterans and First Responders.
Contact Eden to schedule your introductory lesson.
Ranch Days
Our Ranch Days offer something for everyone — whether you’re planning a family outing or organizing a group event.
Throughout the year, we host activity-filled days that include archery, pony rides for kids, laser tag, a petting zoo, and a hosted lunch. It’s a great way to unplug, play, and enjoy time together in a relaxed ranch setting. You can join one of our scheduled Ranch Days, or book the entire ranch for your own private event.
Home School/Charter School Program
This program allows children to enjoy Horse of the Sun Ranch and participate in a variety of activities including horseback riding, feeding, and grooming horses, archery, gardening, hiking, and much more!
30-minute horsemanship lesson
TK-12
$50 per session
30-minute horsemanship lessons
TK-12
1x per week – $200 per month
60-minute horsemanship lessons
TK-12
1x per week – $299 per month
2-hour group session
TK-8
1st & 3rd Wednesday of every month – $100 per month
2-hour group session
Grades: 9-12
2nd & 4th Thursday of every month – $100 per month
Volunteer at the Ranch
Are you passionate about horses and helping others? Horse of the Sun Ranch in Pine Valley is looking for dedicated volunteers to join our team! Our ranch provides a peaceful and healing environment where horses and people connect, and we rely on caring individuals like you to help with daily operations, horse care, ranch maintenance, and special events.
We welcome volunteers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a horse enthusiast, love working outdoors, or simply want to give back to the community, we have a place for you.
Come be a part of something special and make a difference at Horse of the Sun Ranch! Sign up today and help us continue our mission of providing a sanctuary for healing, growth, and connection.
Ranch Retreats
Looking for a meaningful way to bring your family, team, or group together? Our equine-assisted day retreats offer a unique setting where people can connect, reflect, and grow — all through hands-on experiences with horses.
Each retreat is shaped around themes like leadership development, team bonding, effective communication, or emotional awareness.
Our facilitators are certified through respected programs, including EAL, Equus, and Touched by a Horse. Together with our horses, we create a wonderful space for growth and fun!
Contact Regina to schedule your custom ranch retreat.
Interested in helping feed and nurture one of these wonderful horses? Be sure to click “Learn More” on each horses bio!
Chase
Mini Hank
Gidget
Miss Congeniality
Hank
The Steadfast Heart
JJ
Sweet and Sassy
Jo Joe
The Can-Do Kid
Jolene
Gentle Partner
Lady Bug
Elegant Dancer
Liberty
The Golden Girl
Tonka
The Gentle Giant
Willow
Graceful Mover
Zeus
Mr. Small but Mighty
Best place to get your questions answered.
Regina Butala Favre
Ranch Director
Eden Holt
Program Manager
Aubrey Cunningham
Program Coordinator
Megan Houlihan
Horse Specialist
Building a relationship with a horse is an intensely uplifting and empowering experience for children and adults, creating lasting, positive benefits:
Got questions? Call and leave a message or email us! A Horse of the Sun representative will get back to you at their earliest opportunity.
