Stables in Lake County, IL

[WindyCityRider]

I just joined this forum (Hello!), and did so specifically to (hopefully) get some help finding the right barn for my horse. I’ve done a number of searches, found some options that I plan on taking a look at in the next few days, but thought that it could be useful to join a forum and get some insider options and ideas that that may not pop up on a Google search.

As the title states, I am looking for a stable that is located in Lake County, IL. However, with that being said, I would be open to barns near the Illinois/Wisconsin boarder (i.e. Bristol). I am the long time, and proud horse momma to a TB gelding, age 27, whom I’ve been blessed to have in my world since I was 14 (I’m 27, same age as my guy!). Unfortunately, where he is at now just isn’t working out and isn’t ideal. Honestly, I do not require much (and neither does he). He is in exceptional shape for his age, and many people are surprised when I tell them how old he is. He just doesn’t look it, other than a gray face (which is just proof of all the wisdom he has). Although, when we were both younger, we competed extensively in Eventing, that time has passed and we spend our time on flat work, trail rides, and enjoying each others company.

For me, I prefer an environment that is (obviously) friendly and relaxed. I’ve done the big show barns, and have grown passed that now. As has my horse. A laid back environment is really MY only requirement. When it comes to my horse, I really am looking for a place that has GREAT grass turnout (preferably 7 days a week) and will give my old man the quality care he deserves. I’m not picky, but I do expect clean water buckets and trough’s and overall safe handling and care. I do ride year round, so both an indoor and outdoor would be great. In his old age, although he does’t act it or show it much, I really just want a quality place where he can munch on grass in a pasture (even better if pasture board is available!) and he will receive the care he deserves for all the wonderful moments he has given me (and I hope I have given him). Last but not least, and I know this could be a barrier (which is why my search has been difficult at times), my budget is no more than $650 a month. I am a doctorate student, with a tight budget so I really cannot go over that if I want to be able to keep a balanced budget.

Thank you, in advanced, for any and all help in my search.

[ybiaw]

There are so many good places in Lake and McHenry Counties, it’s hard to even narrow it down.

Millcreek
Palladia
Sunflower
Red Coat
Fields & Fences

The only thing that may be tough is the price range, in which case you may want to look out toward McHenry county, as prices are typically lower, but the commute is not too terrible.

[AlterMeh]

White Rose Stables in Marengo (McHenry county) may be a bit further west, but pasture board is available, and the barn owner/manager has a pleasantly “let horses be horses” philosophy (as much turnout as possible, doesn’t overgrain, etc.). You can find her on Facebook.

[kremeroyale]

Would love to hear where you are looking/where you end up. Full day grass turnout is like pulling teeth around here I agree you might have more options if you expand your search to McHenry county.

[mychestnutvalentine]

PMING you

[myleetlepony]

If Woodstock is a location you would consider, please PM me. I may know of an option for you.

[WindyCityRider]

[QUOTE=kremeroyale;8816860]
Would love to hear where you are looking/where you end up. Full day grass turnout is like pulling teeth around here I agree you might have more options if you expand your search to McHenry county.[/QUOTE]

I hear you on finding good, full day pasture turnout. I moved to Illinois from Michigan 5 years ago, and was taken aback by the board prices and turnout. In Michigan, you get pay $550 a month and get all the fancy amenities (automatic waterers, european horse walk, etc) and rolling pastures. An average in Michigan was probably $350-ish, and still meant great grass turnout and a nice barn. $550 in Illinois seems to be an average, and that doesn’t usually mean grass pastures. There is a lot of dry/dirt paddocks here, which has always surprised me… I just assumed property costs were higher.

[WindyCityRider]

[QUOTE=ybiaw;8814740]
There are so many good places in Lake and McHenry Counties, it’s hard to even narrow it down.

Millcreek
Palladia
Sunflower
Red Coat
Fields & Fences

The only thing that may be tough is the price range, in which case you may want to look out toward McHenry county, as prices are typically lower, but the commute is not too terrible.[/QUOTE]

I am willing to do a little over an hour, if need be. Obviously, the closer the better but unless I win the lottery any time soon that won’t be an option. Thanks for visiting the barns you did, unfortunately I’ve already looked into them and the lowest one has board at $750. However, Mill Creek didn’t have anything listed on their site for rates. Any idea how much they are? Libertyville would be a easy drive for me!

[2horseygirls]

Bristol Horse Country, “Northern” Illinois Horses, Lake Counted Mounted Posse, and Illinois Horse, Tack and Equipment for Sale or Trade are groups on Facebook you might want to join. They regularly post barn openings, and members post valuable feedback.

[Tiffani_B]

Wedgewood Farm in Wauconda is nice, right on a large trail system, has a large indoor and outdoor arena, large stalls and big pastures.

http://wedgewoodfarms.net/

Not sure what they are charging for board now, but several years back it was $500.

[Senszuri]

I PM’d you - I have a great option that meets all of your requirements.