.png)
Ruskin Finds: Old Florida Charm at Sun City Stables, Horseback Riding in Ruskin FL
- Madi Crites
- Aug 21
- 6 min read
Ruskin often gets dismissed as just another stop on the way to Tampa or Sarasota, but locals know it hides some of Florida’s best-kept treasures. And since I live here, I’m determined to uncover the hidden gems that make Ruskin shine.
Not to put it on the map for gentrification or transplant-takeover, but to celebrate the beauty of old Florida, the kind of place where time slows down, nature is close at hand, and community still matters.
One such gem is Sun City Stables. Truly a glimpse into what Florida life looked like before the sprawling developments and master-planned communities. Here, loved and well-ridden horses graze in the shade, chickens, geese and goats wander freely, and the people who perfect the art of animal husbandry welcome you in. Step behind the sunburst gates of this rustic, working stable, and you’ll find a place where tradition, nature, and community still thrive.
Immediately upon entering, unsure of where to begin, I was waved down by a group of young adults gathered beneath an old outstretched oak, seeking refuge from the hot August sun. Here, Southern kindness begins at the gates.
I was quickly welcomed by Mikey and Jenna, two long-time employees, along with a herd of free-roaming goats. Jenna introduced herself as the Stable’s Manager, working closely with owner Cornelia Wynn: the guiding force behind Sun City Stables.
Meet Jenna: From FFA to Stable Manager
Jenna made me feel at home, and as we talked, her passion for this place became obvious. She didn’t grow up as a rider, but she did grow up in Lakeland surrounded by farm life, showing cows in FFA and working with livestock. Horses, though? That was new.
“I was honestly scared to ride at first,” she admitted with a laugh.
But now, clearly hooked, she’s not only confident in the saddle but also deeply invested in teaching and welcoming newcomers.
Today, Jenna manages the stables day in and day out. From coordinating volunteers and lessons to caring for over 20 horses, and managing the Stable’s social media presence.
What struck me most was Jenna’s passion for the community that forms around this place. She isn’t just managing horses, she’s mentoring kids, guiding first-time riders, and welcoming families who might never otherwise have a chance to experience farm life.
Community Involvement: Classes & Horse Etiquette
As we walked the property, Jenna shared the many ways families and volunteers can get involved at Sun City Stables. Their programs especially support kids gaining confidence around animals and serve the homeschooling community in Ruskin.
Q: “So tell me about your activities & farm classes. What do you offer?”
Jenna: “We do so many things, but mainly horse classes for kids, usually ages 5 to around 14. They learn to ride, feed, groom, and care for horses.
Beyond horsemanship, the stables host survival skills classes, archery in the cooler months, and gardening classes starting this fall.
The Animals & Activities: Petting Zoo, Horseback Riding & Volunteering
Sun City Stables is home to around 20 horses, each with their own personality and role — some are perfect for beginners just getting started on their horseback journey, while others are favorites among experienced riders. A few even come with the opportunity to lease-to-own.
Beyond the horses, the stables are also home to a lively petting zoo, perfect for families looking to break out of the mundane weekend routine and get their hands a little dirty. Goats, sheep, chickens, geese, mini horses, and even Lemon the emu let you in on a slice of real farm life.
Horseback Riding in Ruskin FL: For Every Rider
Jenna then introduced me to Mr. Trump (the honor of my lifetime) — her beautiful chestnut steed who, I’m told, is something of a legend around the farm.
“He’s my special guy,” she said, smiling.
Though she’s been riding Trump for 7 months now, Jenna knows exactly what it’s like to be a beginner. She started out just like many first-time visitors:
“When I first came here, I had never ridden a horse before. Honestly, I was scared,” she admitted. “I started with the calm horses we designate for very young or brand-new riders, and over time I leveled up.”
That’s the beauty of Sun City Stables — whether you’re brand-new or seasoned in the saddle, there’s always a horse that matches your pace. Some are perfect for kids and beginners, while others are better suited for confident riders eager for more challenge.
Riding is open to all ages! For little ones, Jenna explained, the stables even offer “doubling,” where a child can safely ride alongside an adult. They also host lessons focused entirely on riding skills, everything from handling the reins to trotting, and eventually galloping.
Work Lease & Boarding: Flexible Ways to Ride
For those looking for more than just a one-time visit, the stables offer several ways to get involved:
Q: "You mentioned volunteers — how does that work?"
Jenna: “We have a program called ‘work lease,’ where volunteers can trade working-time at the stables for riding opportunities. It’s a great way to bond with a horse.”
For riders whose schedules don’t allow for volunteer hours, the stables also offer a straightforward monthly lease option. The work lease and straight forward leasing programs create flexible opportunities for riders to to form long-term connections with a horse without the full cost of ownership.
And horse owners aren’t left out either. The stables provide boarding at $500 per month, offering a safe, cared-for home to horses whose families don’t have the land or space to keep them.
Between leasing, boarding, and even the chance to purchase a horse you've been leasing, Sun City Stables makes horse ownership flexible and approachable for just about anyone.
Stay a While: Camping at the Stables
If a day at the stables isn’t enough, you can even camp on-site.
Q: “You also offer camping?”
Jenna: “Yes! We offer both full hookups for long-term campers or ‘boon-docking’ for people who just want to stay a night or two without water or power. It’s $30 a night for boon-docking. Some people have even lived here in campers for years — they just love the stables and the lifestyle.”
Whether you’re stopping in for a night under the stars or looking for a longer stay, camping at Sun City Stables gives families the chance to soak up a little more of that laid-back, old Florida charm.
Events & What’s Ahead
Sun City Stable’s passion for building community doesn’t stop at horses. The Stables have quickly become a local hub for family-friendly events, everything from plant swaps and spring break camps to glow-in-the-dark Easter egg hunts and even haunted trail tours in the fall.
Q: "Do you have any special events coming up?"
Jenna: “Yes! Mikey bought this awesome antique tractor — he loves antique farm stuff — and we’re fixing it up to pull a hay wagon. This October, we’ll be offering hayrides along with our very first pumpkin patch.”
It’s easy to see the vision: a place where families can come back again and again, not just to ride, but to celebrate the seasons together. Whether it’s picking pumpkins in October, swapping plants in the spring, or bringing kids for Easter egg hunts, Sun City Stables is shaping into a true gathering place for Ruskin.
I'll Be Back!
Sun City Stables is exactly the kind of hidden gem that inspired me to start this blog, a family-friendly Ruskin destination where you can slow down, get outside, and make memories without breaking the bank. The staff were so kind in welcoming me into their world, and I know I’ll be back soon for a trail ride and the pumpkin patch (once it’s not 1,000 degrees out!).
If you’re looking for horseback riding in Ruskin or just a taste of old Florida charm, this is the place. Bring your kids, your boots, or just your sense of adventure — Sun City Stables will handle the rest.
📍 Sun City Stables: 4430 S U.S. Hwy 41, Ruskin, FL 33570
📞 (813) 649-1126
📲 Instagram | Facebook | TikTok: @SunCityStables
Comments