Canter Down Farms Riding Lessons and Summer Camps

Canter Down Farms Riding Lessons and Summer Camps offers Hunter Jumper and Equitation riding lessons, summer camps, and boarding. The program also runs CDF Horse Shows, including the 2026 CDF Horse Show series and Hunter Series at Silver Sands Bridle Club. Riders can take part in a 2026 horse show series that includes events such as “Spring Fling,” “Fall into Autumn,” and “Hallo-Fest,” with specific double-point formats and a requirement to participate in two of the three shows to qualify for the Year End Banquet.

• Schedule: Open 8:00 am–6:00 pm, with the 2026 CDF Horse Show series including “Spring Fling” on April 26 (shortened schedule, entirely double pointed), “Fall into Autumn” on September 11–13 (double points for classes not run in April), and “Hallo-Fest” on October 9–11 (double points for the entire show); riders must participate in two of the three shows to qualify for the Year End Banquet.

Owner and trainer Karen Knies has been riding horses for over 40 years. She began as a working student in her junior year in Palm Beach and trained at a variety of places, including show barns and race tracks, and has also trained in western disciplines, 4-H, and Pony Club events. She established Canter Down Farms in 1995, and the farm is now described as one of Volusia County’s top show barns. Her stated passion is instilling the education and love of riding into every CDF rider so they can confidently enjoy the equestrian sport to its fullest. The program notes support for EZ Ice, and references EZ ICE Hoof Packs and Hoof Combo Boots, which have double layers of ice cells to cool the hoof longer and are described as relieving pain and heat swelling.

Last updated May 31, 2026.