SATURDAY FUN ON THE FARM AT LOCKWOOD PARK -- Bring the family out to the country to find fun and enjoy the benefits of being outdoors in fresh air and nature while engaging in safe recreational activities and making memories at Rockford Park District's Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Rd. in northwest Rockford.

   Activities are Saturdays, 10 am-4 pm, May 3 through September 27, 2025, weather permitting, and include tractor-drawn wagon rides through the park’s scenic meadows and woods ($6 per person, departing every 30 minutes), and free Sarver Children's Farm barn visits. For additional wagon ride schedule information, check https://lockwoodpark.com/wagon-rides. An overview of all Saturday activities is at https://lockwoodpark.com/saturdays-on-the-farm.

   Public horseback trail rides depart Saturdays at 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 pm. The 45-minute guided walk-only rides through the peaceful woods of the park are for ages eight and older and are $45 per person; no previous riding experience is needed. Reservations are required, and can be done at https://lockwoodpark.com/rides, where additional information for riders is also posted, or by calling 815-987-8809.

    The popular hands-on Pony Experience sessions are offered 10 am-2 pm on Saturdays, when those ages two and older can get up close and personal with a pony or small horse to build a greater connection through a variety of activities offered each week; the fee for the 10-minute program is $12 per person. Advance reservations are highly recommended, and can be done at https://lockwoodpark.com/pony-experience; walk-ups at the park are subject to availability.

   Information about Lockwood Park, as well as prices and advance ticket purchase for fee-based activities is available at  https://lockwoodpark.com/ or by calling 815-987-8809. These are some of the many family friendly low-fee and free activities offered by the Rockford Park District for the community to enjoy.

 Visitors are also welcome to picnic at the park. The park, its facilities, and some programs are wheelchair accessible. For more information about the park and its activities, group lessons, events, facility rentals, and horse boarding services, visit https://lockwoodpark.com/ or call 815-987-8809. Activities may close early if attendance is low; to confirm hours, please call ahead. Information on accessibility and adapted equipment for park visitors with disabilities is available at 815-987-8800 (call/text).