Murray Ridge Center – Kearneysville, WV
1056 Luther Jones Rd, Kearneysville, WV 25430
Murray Ridge Riding Center is a therapeutic equestrian facility in Kearneysville, West Virginia, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with physical, emotional, and developmental challenges. Through horseback riding and equine-assisted programs, the center creates a supportive environment for growth, learning, and healing. Staffed by experienced instructors and trained volunteers, the center emphasizes safety, inclusion, and progress at every stage. With scenic pastures and well-maintained stables, the center serves children, veterans, and adults seeking alternative therapy. Programs are customized for individual needs, blending structure with freedom to explore.
Interesting Facts:

Therapeutic Riding
Therapeutic riding at Murray Ridge Riding Center is a life-changing experience for individuals facing physical, cognitive, or developmental challenges. These structured riding sessions are led by certified therapeutic instructors and trained volunteers who prioritize safety and individualized attention. Riders learn how to mount, guide, and interact with horses in a supportive and empowering setting. Each session includes activities that improve core strength, posture, motor coordination, and confidence. Beyond physical benefits, therapeutic riding helps improve emotional regulation, focus, and social interaction. Many riders form strong bonds with the horses, enhancing trust and reducing anxiety. Parents and caregivers often notice improvements in independence and mood after consistent sessions. Horses are chosen for their calm demeanor and gentle responsiveness, creating a secure atmosphere for learning and healing. Whether for children with autism or adults recovering from injury, the program offers tailored goals and compassionate care. Every ride is a step toward growth and empowerment.
Veterans Equine Program
The Veterans Equine Program at Murray Ridge provides a safe, healing space for military veterans to reconnect with themselves and others through horsemanship. Horses, with their intuitive and calming presence, help veterans experiencing PTSD, anxiety, or reintegration struggles find peace and purpose. Participants work alongside trained professionals in grooming, groundwork, and riding exercises that promote patience, focus, and emotional processing. The serene countryside setting of the center allows veterans to breathe and feel present without judgment or pressure. Through non-verbal communication with the horse, veterans learn to rebuild trust and manage emotions more effectively. Group sessions encourage shared experiences and a sense of camaraderie that mirrors military brotherhood. The program offers flexibility, whether the goal is stress relief, physical rehabilitation, or emotional growth. Over time, many veterans report decreased symptoms, improved mood, and restored confidence. This holistic approach to healing fosters resilience and hope.


Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL)
Equine-Assisted Learning at Murray Ridge Riding Center provides a hands-on, experiential approach to personal growth, leadership, and communication. Unlike traditional therapy, EAL involves working with horses on the ground—through activities such as leading, grooming, or obstacle navigation—to foster critical life skills. Participants learn how their energy, intentions, and behaviors influence a horse’s response, encouraging mindfulness and emotional awareness. Sessions are structured yet flexible, adapting to the unique needs of each individual or group. EAL is particularly effective for children and teens dealing with anxiety, trauma, or behavioral challenges, as well as adults pursuing self-improvement. Horses offer immediate, honest feedback, helping participants identify and shift unproductive patterns. Facilitators use guided reflection to draw connections between the horse interactions and everyday life situations. Schools, counseling programs, and families regularly integrate EAL into their support frameworks. This program offers a unique combination of learning, reflection, and fun in a peaceful farm setting.
Murray Ridge Center, Virginia Taxi
We provide therapeutic program transportation, scheduled pickup/drop-off for sessions, accessible rides for mobility-impaired clients, private taxi service for veterans attending programs, and group shuttle transport for equine therapy events.