Visit Our Desert Horse Park
Whether you’re a lifelong horse enthusiast or just looking for a great way to spend a day with your family and friends, the Desert International Horse Park (DIHP) truly offers something for everyone.
The Horse Park is located at 85-555 Airport Boulevard in Thermal. We are open to visitors Wednesday through Sunday of the following dates:
- November 1 through 12, 2023 (National Sunshine Series)
- November 29 through December 10, 2023 (Desert Holiday Circuit)
- January 10 through March 17, 2024 (Desert Circuit)
Classes run daily from 8:00 a.m. through mid-afternoon in almost every one of our 14 competition rings. On Saturday evenings, we offer special classes in our Grand Prix Arena beginning at dusk. These events are always a highlight for competitors and spectators alike with top-level horses and riders competing for coveted prizes and awards.
Click below for a map of our Horse Park
FAQs
How do we get to the Horse Park?
We are located at 85-555 Airport Boulevard in Thermal. The stabling gate is the primary entranced used for visitors, participants, and horses. The main entrance is closed except for special events. Our staff will direct you to parking, and you will receive visitor wristbands and a visitors guide.
What does it cost to attend?
When is the best time to visit?
Though the Horse Park is open to visitors Wednesday through Sunday during our season (November through March), we highly recommend looking at our schedule for featured night classes. The atmosphere under the lights is unbeatable, and you can cheer on the top horse-and-rider combinations as they take on jumps up to 1.60m in height (5’3″). Evening classes are reserved for Saturday nights beginning at dusk, with a few exceptions throughout the season. See the weekly schedule here.
If you can’t make it for the evening classes, we have plenty of exciting competition all day every day! From Wednesday through Sunday, classes of all levels run daily from 8:00 a.m. through mid-afternoon in almost every one of our 14 competition rings.
Is there a schedule of events?
What should we wear?
We recommend casual, comfortable clothes and footwear; we’re a large facility and there is lots to see, explore, and to do! Sunscreen and a hat are always a good idea in the desert, and for evening classes it can get a bit chilly once the sun goes down so we recommend a jacket or sweater.
Is there food available for purchase?
The Horse Park boasts amazing on-site food vendors as well as seasonal food trucks. We have something for every palate, from vegan poké bowls to wood fired pizza and everything in between. We also offer a full-service bar near our Grand Prix arena, and our on-site coffee shop makes top-notch lattes and smoothies. If you’re interested in a VIP experience – including full-dining options and complimentary drinks – please visit our hospitality page.
How do we get around the park?
We have a complimentary shuttle service offering rides all across the horse park. Just call or text 760-984-3193 for a ride and a shuttle will meet you wherever you are at the park!
Is the park dog friendly?
Yes, all dogs are welcome at the park! All dogs must be leashed at all times.
Rules at the horse park:
Our rules are primarily designed to keep you and everyone safe while competing and spectating at DIHP. We want everyone to have the best time possible enjoying our facility!
- Drive slowly around the park (speed limit is 10 mph)
- Horses have the right of way, meaning when you see a horse in front of you, STOP!
- Do not feed, approach, or pet the horses unless you have explicit permission to do so.
- Do not run, yell, or make sudden movements around horses. Be aware of your actions and what you might do that could “spook” a horse. When a horse finishes a round of jumping (especially if they jump clear), you may cheer!
- Only park in designated parking areas (marked on the property map).
- iPhone and recreational cameras are permitted, but no professional-grade equipment for photo sales.