Over 30 years of teaching riders of all ages in a relaxed, family-friendly, hands-on environment.
Heatherwood Equestrian Academy is a family-run barn in Granger, Indiana, started by Deborah Clements—a lifelong horse lover who’s all about sharing the magic of riding. She’s spent years in the saddle and now leads a small, caring team that helps riders of all ages feel confident, capable, and connected to their horses. Whether you’re brand new or ready for the show ring, we’ve got lessons, camps, and plenty of space to learn, grow, and just enjoy being around these amazing animals.
Heatherwood’s goal is not only to teach horsemanship to our students, but to foster a bond between the rider and horse in order to develop a sense of awareness and sensitivity to the special attributes of their relationship. Every animal and guest at Heatherwood is treated with respect and kindness. In working with horses, children often gain self-confidence and independence in their abilities to care for themselves and our animal friends.
The Academy teaches safety around horses, horse anatomy, proper grooming, feeding and housing, equipment use and learning to “tack up” a horse. Riding covers proper seat, leg and hand position as well as learning to walk, trot and canter using correct diagonals, leads and gait. Each rider will be assessed to determine the pace at which they will advance to the next level.
We welcome riders of all levels from beginners to those ready to advance to jumping. Whether you want to learn to ride for pleasure, advance to horse shows or ride for an excellent way to relax & exercise -Heatherwood will tailor a program for your interests.
Heatherwood Equestrian Academy is available for both adults & children to be involved with horses in a variety of ways. Many of our clients take small group lessons, private lessons as space permits or children may join us for one of our week-long summer day camps.
Heatherwood’s services include : Horseback Riding Lessons, Equestrian Camps, Birthday Parties, Family Outings, Pleasure & Trail Riding, Horse Boarding, Horse Leases, Corporate Outings, Educational Programs, Boy & Girl Scout Programs, Interscholastic Equestrian Team, Horse Showing & Competitions, Ladies & Gent Riding Club & Interactive Farm Animal Area.
Please refer to our service pages for more information on opportunities to participate with our wonderful horses & animals.
Boy & Girl Scout Troops – Individuals or the whole troop may come to Heatherwood to work on and earn merit badges.
Horseback Riding Camps-Total Horsemanship Summer Camps- Available to ages 5 – 15 years old -beginner through advanced riders welcome. Campers will “own” a horse for the week.
Educational Programs – Offered to schools & special groups, in the classroom or outdoors (weather permitting) or visit Heatherwood for an educational field trip.
Interscholastic Equestrian Team – Available to Heatherwood riders in the 4th through 12th grades. Riders do not need to own a horse in order to be on our team..
Horse Shows & Competitions- Heatherwood has a horse show each year for all our riders. This show allows any Heatherwood rider to experience a horse show for the 1st time & they may do so on a horse they have been riding in lessons. The show offers classes for our more advanced riders as well. There are classes available for every age & level of rider. Each class is awarded ribbons.
Follow these simple steps to saddle up for your first lesson or camp at Heatherwood.
1
Pick a riding lesson or camp that fits your age, skill level, and schedule.
2
Fill out the Rider Profile & Waiver before your first day. You’ll find them on our Forms page.
3
Wear closed-toe shoes, bring your helmet, and get ready to meet your horse!
Nadine Moosley - Email
“I was so scared, I almost talked myself out of it, I called & they where so understanding & calm I felt at ease and showed up, so glad I did, It was such an awesome experience. I gained so much knowledge and the staff was beyond nice and so willing to share there knowledge.”
Samantha C. - YELP
“The property seemed pretty large and they had a trail that leads into the woods of the property. The horses seem to know the drill all too well as you didn’t have to nudge them to begin walking. They also knew exactly where to go and which turns to take on the path. All in all, it was a pleasant experience.”
Jamie Leitch - Google
“A wonderful place! My daughter has gained improvement in her riding skills and they work with our ever changing crazy activity schedule. My daughter loves Heatherwood and so do we. Miss Deb is great to work with.”