arizona equestrian connection, llc

Last month I had the opportunity to stumble upon Arizona Equestrian Connection with my family during a visit to Arizona. Our plan was visit the ranch for an afternoon to check out the hay rides and paddle boats, but we loved it there so much we ended up booking overnight accommodations to stay the night. When we first arrived, we were greeted by two beautiful ladies, Shortie and Deb. From the moment we stepped foot on the property, we felt welcomed! Our first activity was the hay ride around the beautiful grounds with beautiful views, especially from the three story treehouse that our kids, Tank and Cassidy, loved. After that we explored the property, checked out all of the animals, took the paddle boats out a few times, played dress up, played basketball out on the playground, played pool and ping pong in the game room, and went fishing in the "catch and release" pond. Our son, "Tank", caught a huge fish, which was awesome!!! Instead of calling it a day and checking in at a local hotel, we stayed in their beautifully furnished three bedroom apartment-style room with all the comforts of home. The best part was not having to rush to check out by 11:00 or noon like at traditional hotels. We were told we could leave whenever we wanted to the next day, so we had plenty of time for more fishing, paddle boating, and everything else!!! How awesome is that?!?! We've told all of our friends and family about this hidden gem, and we're looking forward to going back very soon. Also, for all of you wonderful Monty Roberts fans out there, the famous New York Times Bestselling Author and renowned "Horse Whisperer" himself will be there to share his wonderful message of non-violence and trust based communication during a 3 hour demonstration on March 14, 2015. Visit ArizonaEquestrianConnection.com to purchase tickets and for more information regarding this event and the ranch itself. Also, Arizona Equestrian Connection is at Jackpot Ranch in Camp Verde; however, the two are completely separate organizations. Overall, we rate our experience a 10 out of 10!!! It was heaven on earth, and Deb and Shortie are beautiful all the way around, inside and out!!! They made the whole experience even more enjoyable. We'll certainly be returning again soon!!! Definitely check it out for yourself. You won't be disappointed!!! Thanks for reading! Janet Sandifer

For a more detailed review - read my review on Jackpot Ranch. In short - if you can only visit for the afternoon or if you can stay for a week, make time for a stop at AZ Equestrian Connection at Jackpot Ranch, you will love it!

Visiting Arizona Equestrian Connection was like being in Heaven, and Shortie and Deb were the angels. The 72 acre ranch is breath taking and packed with many mini adventures and activities for families. Hay rides, fishing (catch and release), tee pees, a tree house, mini horse and cart, swimming, paddle boats, a small "petting" zoo, covered gazebo with barbecue and seating, plus much more. A.E.C. is open every weekend for their "Day At The Ranch" and Shortie and Deb treated me and my family like family. I only have 2 questions; why haven't I heard of Arizona Equestrian Connection before, and when can we come back!!.......We love A.E.C.!!!!

Wow! What a place to visit! Like nothing we have experienced. This picture perfect ranch has it all for young and old alike. One thing I'd like to mention is that the personalized service is impeccable and people who have a hard time getting around will not have a problem as they will take you in a cart wherever you'd like to go on the facility. No extra charges for anything that I know of once you pay a minimal entrance fee. All equipment is included. Oh..there would be an extra charge for the horseback riding but we didn't have enough time to do that as we were enjoying all the other activities they had to offer. It was so nice to take our grandchildren there as they had so much fun and wonderful spots to rest or picnic in between activities plus really peaceful. They had more fun than they would have had at Disneyland. Seriously. There is far to much to say about this place. You must experience it and give yourself plenty of time!

Wow! Loved my day trip here! Deborah- handles booking - made me feel so comfortable. I felt like we had been friends forever. Everything that Deborah told me about Jackpot Ranch was true! She was actually a little modest on the description! Deborah described Arizona Equistrian Connection as though she truly believed in Shortie. I can see why after my visit. Shortie-Instructor- shared such a beautiful bond with the horses. Truly an amazing and for me, life changing experience. I would have never believed that one day could make such a difference in my life. It did!! I would go back in a New York minute!!!! JUST GO!!

Had a great time with family on an evening ride into the beautiful sunset and great landscaping. It rained a little, but it did not prevent us from a nice ride!