STAR Equestrian Center
Hagerstown, Maryland
STAR Equestrian Center is the equine program of Star Community, a Hagerstown, Maryland organization that supports people with disabilities. Its website lists therapeutic riding, recreational lessons, ground and grooming programs, and a free program for veterans and first responders.
- Adaptive (assisted) therapeutic riding
- Independent and recreational riding lessons
- Star's Stripes and Heroes for veterans and first responders
- Ground program (leading, lunging, body language)
- Grooming enrichment with horses and farm animals
- Equestrian-assisted learning
- Field trips and Summer Adventures
- Children and adults with disabilities
- Riders without disabilities
- Veterans
- First responders
More about this center
About the Program
An older page on Star Community's website says the center opened in 1998 after a 10-year vision for equine therapy in Western Maryland, and describes it as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
According to the current website, certified instructors teach adapted riding skills in private, semi-private or group lessons, with the goal of full independence. The center says it has taught riders from age 6 to 90. The grooming program is open to people with physical limitations and may or may not lead to riding.
Star's Stripes and Heroes offers veterans and first responders equine-based programs at no cost. The website credits the D.M. Bowman Group and the Delaplaine Foundation for funding it. See our guide to equine therapy for veterans.
Getting Started
The website says the first step is a conversation with the team to learn about your interests and find the best fit. Lessons run in 4-week sessions through the year, with at least a week off between sessions. Call (301) 791-6222 or email eqcenter@starcommunityinc.org.
Volunteering
Volunteers age 13 and up can help on day or evening shifts after a monthly orientation. The website says horse volunteers should be comfortable handling horses with little supervision, and there is a separate application for barn chores. Contact the center at (301) 791-6222 to learn more.
Location
VisitMaryland lists the equestrian center at 13674 Greencastle Pike, Hagerstown, MD 21740. Star Community's main office is at 13757 Broadfording Church Rd, Hagerstown. A Maryland 211 listing gives Maryland as the service area.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
How do I sign up?
The center asks families to start with a conversation with its team. Call (301) 791-6222 or email eqcenter@starcommunityinc.org.
Are there age or weight requirements?
A Maryland 211 listing says riders must be 6 or older and weigh 230 pounds or less. Confirm current requirements with the center.
How much do lessons cost?
Call (301) 791-6222 to ask about current rates. Star's Stripes and Heroes is free for veterans and first responders. See our guide to equine therapy costs.
How is the schedule set up?
Lessons run in 4-week sessions throughout the year, with at least one week off between sessions. The website posts the current session dates.
Location
Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.