At 9,500 acres, Shimek State Forest is Iowa’s largest continuous stand of state owned forests. With so much land to see, borrowing a pair or two of longer, stronger legs makes a real adventure out of exploring this forest.

Westercamp’s Rent A Horse experience is an opportunity to ride through this forest on the strong back of one of their gentle horses or mules.
Westercamp Rent A Horse / Facebook
The rides are two and a half hour long guided tours through this beautiful forestland.
Westercamp Rent A Horse / Facebook
Rides are offered seven days a week and are by reservation only. Groups are welcome and horses are matched to rider skill and size.
Westercamp Rent A Horse / Facebook

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Guides are experienced with all aspects of the ride, including knowing the personality of each horse - and they’ll kindly explain to you exactly what to expect from each horse.
Westercamp Rent A Horse / Facebook
Kids and grownups alike will remember the experience for a lifetime; being so close to and riding on such powerful and graceful creatures is genuinely a privilege.
Looking for ideas for a birthday party, a first date, or a family outing? This outdoor adventure will be sure to make memories.
Westercamp Rent A Horse / Facebook
One highlight of travel on a horse is the serenity and quietness such rides provide. While the horse will most likely walk through the forest faster than you would, the speed is still slow enough and your seat high enough to really soak in the surroundings.
The cost per rider is $45 dollars. Westercamp’s tour is located in the southeast hill country of Iowa roughly three miles east of Farmington, Iowa. Look for the sign “Rent A Horse” on Highway 2 in the middle of Shimek State Forest.
Westercamp Rent A Horse / Facebook

Learn more at Westercamp’s website or Facebook page. Horseback riding isn’t the only thing to do here; there are also beautiful lakes such as Black Oak Lake tucked into the woods and featuring fishing and picnic areas. There are 60 miles of trails in the area to hike and bike in addition to the equestrian rides. And you can even camp nearby!

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Westercamp Rent A Horse, 1116 IA-2, Farmington, IA 52626, USA