Imagine spending an hour with charming, rescued animals in a peaceful mountain setting—sounds pretty wonderful, doesn’t it? That’s exactly what this private farm tour at Napping Horse Farm offers. It’s an experience tailored for animal lovers, families, and anyone wanting a break from the usual tourist attractions.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized, hands-on approach means you’ll get close to a variety of animals, from friendly donkeys to curious emus. Second, the heartwarming stories of rescue and recovery bring a meaningful depth that turns a simple farm visit into something much more special.
A potential consideration? Since this is a private tour for up to six people, it’s best suited for small groups or families who want a relaxed, intimate experience. If you’re expecting a large, bustling farm filled with crowds, this might not be the right fit. But if you’re craving genuine connections with animals and a quiet moment in nature, this experience will likely leave a lasting impression.
This tour works best for those who appreciate authentic stories, enjoy gentle interactions with animals, and seek a peaceful escape in the Catskills. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to slow down and enjoy nature’s simpler pleasures.
Key Points
- Personalized, private experience tailored for small groups for a more meaningful encounter
- Rescued animals with inspiring stories, giving you insight into their journey to safety
- Close-up animal interactions, including feeding, petting, and brushing
- Stunning panoramic views of the Catskills, adding a scenic backdrop to the experience
- Affordable value at $97.50 for a group, making it an intimate and cost-effective outing
- Flexible, patient guides who provide rich information and respect animal boundaries
A Closer Look at the Farm Tour Experience
This private tour takes you onto 44 Kate Yaeger Rd, Saugerties, about 13 minutes from Woodstock—a conveniently located oasis for animal lovers seeking a gentle outdoor adventure. The tour lasts roughly an hour, which strikes a perfect balance between enough time to connect with the animals and not feeling like a full-day commitment. As a mobile ticket experience, you can plan your arrival flexibly, and the small group size ensures a personal touch.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in The Catskills.
The Setting and Atmosphere
Imagine walking through 30 acres of the Catskills, with mountain views in the background and animals freely roaming or comfortably resting. The farm isn’t just a sanctuary but a place filled with peaceful energy and natural beauty. Whether it’s sunny or cloudy, the farm’s tranquil environment makes for a relaxing visit—perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
What You’ll Encounter
From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the farm’s friendly owner, Jake, who is praised for being personable and knowledgeable. He shares stories of each animal’s rescue, their personalities, and their journey to this farm, making the experience both educational and heartfelt.
The animals are eager to meet visitors. Donkeys and goats seem to thrive on attention, often eager to be petted or brushed. Emus are a bit more cautious but still excited to eat from your hand—an unusual and memorable moment for many. Visitors have attested to the genuine care that goes into caring for these animals, which adds a layer of authenticity that’s often missing in larger commercial farms.
Animal Encounters and Interaction
Expect to:
- Feed emus and goats—feeding is a highlight for many visitors, especially children
- Pet and brush horses and donkeys, which often seem to enjoy the interaction
- Learn about each animal’s rescue story, giving depth to what might otherwise be just a farm visit
- Capture plenty of photo opportunities in the scenic setting, with mountain vistas and friendly animals in the frame
The Experience from Visitors’ Perspectives
Multiple reviews mention how much they appreciated the knowledge and warmth of Jake and the other hosts. One reviewer noted, “Jake was so great, very personable, and gave us a lot of info on the rescued animals,” illustrating how the guides go beyond just showing animals—they tell their stories.
Another guest described it as a “wonderful experience,” emphasizing the “interesting stories” and the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of animals. The relaxed pace and the respect shown for each animal’s comfort make this a stress-free experience.
The Value for Money
At $97.50 per group, this tour packs a lot of value. For roughly an hour, you get personalized attention, meaningful animal interactions, and a chance to learn about animal rescue efforts. Considering that many attractions charge similar or higher prices for less intimate experiences, this trip offers genuine value.
Ideal For
This experience is perfect for families with children, especially those who love animals and storytelling. It’s also a lovely choice for couples or groups wanting a peaceful, authentic activity that doesn’t involve loud crowds or commercialized entertainment.
Practical Details and Tips
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals or mobility considerations, as long as they can handle a farm environment.
- Booking is usually done 9 days in advance, so planning ahead is advisable.
- The activity is weather-dependent; if it’s canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.
- Since it’s a private tour, you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, making it more relaxed and tailored to your group’s pace.
Who This Tour Is Best For
If you’re passionate about animals and enjoy hearing their stories, this tour offers a genuine connection that’s rare on typical farm visits. Families with kids will find it especially delightful—kids love feeding, petting, and the chance to ask questions. Nature lovers will appreciate the breathtaking views and the farm’s calm atmosphere.
It’s also an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful, authentic experiences in the Catskills without leaving the comfort of a small group. If you prefer large crowds or highly commercialized attractions, this may not meet your expectations, but for anyone craving a peaceful, hands-on encounter with rescue animals, it’s a genuine treat.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s great for families; children especially enjoy feeding and petting the animals. The guides are patient and kind, making it a suitable activity for kids of most ages.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about an hour, providing ample time to interact with the animals and hear their stories without feeling rushed.
Can I book this tour last minute?
Most bookings are made about 9 days in advance, so last-minute reservations might be possible, but it’s advisable to book early to secure your spot.
What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at 44 Kate Yaeger Rd, Saugerties, NY—a convenient location in the Catskills area.
Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour for your group only, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; the tour is family-friendly but always check with the provider if you have specific needs or concerns.
What’s the cost?
It’s $97.50 per group for up to six people—an affordable option for a personalized animal encounter.
Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed, making this accessible for travelers with special needs.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for an outdoor farm setting; layers are recommended as weather can vary.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This private farm tour delivers more than just a chance to see animals; it offers a heartfelt look at rescue stories, genuine animal interactions, and breathtaking scenery. The personalized attention from knowledgeable guides makes each visit special, and the authentic, caring environment ensures you leave inspired and refreshed.
It’s especially suited for animal lovers, families with children, or anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the Catskills with a meaningful purpose. If you’re after a quiet, authentic experience that combines nature, compassion, and a touch of adventure, this farm tour will likely become a memorable highlight of your trip.