XO Ranch
Descanso, California
XO Ranch is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ranch in Descanso, California, in San Diego's East County. It offers riding and horsemanship lessons, animal-assisted sessions with miniature horses and a donkey, and farm and garden activities. According to its website, it focuses on children with learning and developmental disabilities, and its students include autistic children and special education students.
- Riding and horsemanship lessons (under saddle or ground work)
- Equine-assisted learning
- Animal-assisted sessions with miniature horses and a donkey
- Mobile mini horse visits to schools and care homes
- Animal care, farm chores and gardening
- Ranch Works workforce development
- Retreats and community events
- Children and teens
- Adults
- Seniors
- Children with learning and developmental disabilities
- Autistic children and teens
- Special education students
- People in the IDD and neurodivergent community
More about this center
About the Program
XO Ranch says its riding lessons are tailored to each client and taught by certified instructors, with goals such as strength, balance, coordination and focus. Lessons can be ridden under saddle or done as ground work. The website does not mention hippotherapy or list licensed physical, occupational or speech therapists.
Beyond the arena, participants care for goats, chickens, pigs and rabbits and help in the garden. The Ranch Works program offers hands-on job training for people in the IDD and neurodivergent community, covering teamwork, communication and workplace responsibility.
The Horses and Staff
The ranch lists Noah as its lead riding horse, with Penelope in training. Miniature horses Andi and Maylee are described as certified therapy minis, and they travel to schools, libraries, nursing homes and events.
Founder and president Kim, listed as an Equine Assisted Learning facilitator, says she started the ranch in 2021 and began training with PATH International after her son's autism diagnosis. Another team member is listed as pursuing the PATH Intl. Equine-Assisted Learning credential. The website does not state that XO Ranch is a PATH Intl. accredited center.
Location
XO Ranch is in Descanso, California, and describes itself as east of Alpine in East County San Diego. Its mobile mini horse program also visits schools, care homes and other sites in the 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 get started at XO Ranch?
Families fill out the form on the ranch's Get Started page. XO Ranch then schedules a consultation by phone or in person to discuss needs, goals and next steps.
How much do sessions cost?
Call (619) 247-3068 or email xoranch619@gmail.com to ask. For general pricing context, see our guide to equine therapy costs.
Who can ride?
The ranch says its riding lessons are for children and adults and are adapted to each rider's needs and abilities. Ask during the consultation about any age, weight or medical requirements.
Can I volunteer?
The ranch's homepage has a Get Involved link for volunteers. Call (619) 247-3068 or email xoranch619@gmail.com to ask about current opportunities.
Location
Descanso, California 91916
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.