Reviews
I'm an adult beginner taking biweekly lessons at Merkel. My instructor is wise beyond her years - knowledgeable, cheerful, patient, and deeply attentive to details concerning both horse and rider. She matched me with a Belgian draft horse mix who for me at least was love at first sight. From the first, I felt like a welcome part of the farm. I can't describe my delight and excitement at finding this place.
A working farm nestled in Bowie MD. Right next to the HBCU of Bowie State University. Beautiful horses which are great for learning how to ride correctly. Great for beginners especially children. They provide summer camp for kids as well as year round equestrian lessons.
Never thought I’d find a spot like this right outside of DC. Great for all riding levels, from beginner to experienced!
This is a real horse ranch, not a set of fancy stables. My daughter attends weekly riding classes and she lives it. She has steadily progressed and become better and more confident at riding. The staff is great. They are excellent teachers and work hard to ensure students learn and develop with each lesson. They have a large selection of horses with myriads of personalities to challenge students. It is a really great place and the operate a popular summer camp as well. Highly recommended.
I took lessons at Merkel for almost a year and had a wonderful experience there. I sadly had to discontinue lessons due to having to move to NC, but I absolutely adored Merkel. Miss Kelly and Miss Stephanie are fantastic instructors and the horses are absolutely wonderful!! Large arenas and amazing trails to ride in and overall an amazing facility to ride at. Would definitely recommend for riders of any experience level!!
This is a beautiful farm with plenty of room to ride. They have indoor & outdoor rings for riding. The owner is frequently on site and great to chat with!
Such a warm and kind place, great experience for my kids this summer, and they want to continue taking riding lessons here.
Best Horse Farm Ever. Trainer and Owner are phenomenal , friendly people with horses and their riders. I highly recommend Merkel Farms.
My daughter has been riding here for over three years for a reason. Great people, sweet horses, fun challenges and wonderful friends.
Great lessons, great people, reasonable prices, nice quiet place.
