Our Philosophy & History
About Round Hill Ranch
Round Hill Ranch was created from a lifetime of working with horses and a belief that good care
comes from experience, consistency, and respect for the animal. In our world, the horse comes first.
About Us
The owner and operator of Round Hill Ranch, Stephanie Emery is a former small breeder of Rocky Mountain Horses with extensive experience in managing horses over the long term. Working closely with horses through different phases of development provides perspective that cannot be learned from books or short-term involvement. It teaches patience, observation, and the importance of consistency.
Stephanie works directly with Janet Rustile, the manager adding many more years of experience. This experience helps with the care of managing Round Hill Ranch in every aspect of care from pasture management to handling routines and housing decisions. Horses are not managed by rigid systems, but by informed judgment built through years of practical work. We are also very happy to be a drama-free barn and sometimes it does take a lot of work.
Round Hill Ranch operates on a horse-first philosophy. This means decisions are made based on what supports the horse’s comfort, health, and long-term soundness rather than what is most convenient or profitable. Horses are naturally designed to move, graze, and interact socially. Providing an environment that supports these behaviors helps reduce stress and supports better physical health.
A Quiet and Thoughtful Environment
One of the defining characteristics of Round Hill Ranch is its calm atmosphere. The property is not a busy lesson barn or a high-traffic training facility. This quieter setting benefits horses that are sensitive, aging, or simply thrive in a more relaxed environment. Reduced noise and activity allow horses to settle into routines and maintain a sense of stability.
Serving the Harvard Area
Round Hill Ranch serves horse owners in Harvard, Illinois and the surrounding area who are seeking dependable boarding guided by experience. Being part of the local horse community carries responsibility. The ranch takes pride in providing care that reflects integrity, accountability, and respect for both horses and owners.
Trusted by our customers
See what real customers are saying about their experience with us.
I moved to Round Hill Ranch in May of 2025, I absolutely love it and my girl gets the best care. It is a beautiful property and lots of places to ride and explore. There are also jumps, barrels and a couple obstacles that are fun to play with. It is a very nice barn with great people!
I moved my two mares to Round Hill Ranch sight unseen from across the country and the experience was fantastic. Stephanie was honest, welcoming, and made the whole process stress-free. The property itself is beautiful and the horses are happy. Highly recommend!
I loved my time at Round Hill Ranch, my horse and I were both treated like family there. Steph is one of the most caring horsewomen I've ever met, I couldn't recommend boarding here more.
We boarded our mares with Stephanie and crew every year for the Fourth of July and they received exceptional care and tending. Always a pleasure to work with, punctual, and lovely people who care.
I have recently sold my horse but keep in contact with his new owners so I can still see him and love on him when I can. Hes moved here and this barn is so quiet and serene. The trail path around the property is well trimmed and beautiful to ride through. I enjoy every minute with him here
This barn is amazing. The staff and boarders are very friendly and knowledgeable. They will always go above and beyond for your horse or for a friend. The facility and grounds are absolutely beautiful. Very nice indoor wash rack with hot and cold water. Very nice outdoor arena. People are always going out on trail rides.
I’ve had my retired horse boarded here for almost 15 years and it’s the only place I’d feel safe keeping her besides my own home. Everyone is very friendly, knowledgeable and happy to help out if weather or life get in the way being able to make it out. Horses are treated like family and receive the best care!
Beautiful facility<br>Excellent Care<br>Trails onsite conservation horse trails with in 5 minutes away
Great place! Boarded my horse there. Supper nice people!
The horses are well cared for. They get grain daily (with supplements if they get any) and are visually checked at that time. They have hay in hay huts with nets so they are not eating off the ground. There is a wash stall, a heated tack room and there are several cross ties for grooming and tacking. The barn people at Round Hill Ranch are friendly, helpful, and there is no drama!!!!!
Have boarded my 2 horses here for 8 years. Wonderful care, beautiful well kept property, no drama. Owner lives on-site with her own horses and really cares about her boarders and their horses.
Great owner
Round Hill Ranch Barn Rules
- No smoking allowed in or near barn or any building at any time.
- Everyone must sign a liability release waiver:
- Boarders
- Any guests
- Family
- Parents are responsible for children at all times.
- Riders under 18 must wear a helmet.
- Please do not climb on fence or any gates.
- Please no running or yelling around barn or horses.
- Please use the borders of both hay fields to ride. Do not ride in hay field.
- Be responsible with all the equipment available to you.
- Due to my insurance rider, no dogs allowed on property.
- Please ask before borrowing any equipment.
- Clean the arena when you are done of any equipment & manure. Buckets and forks are provided.
- No abuse will be tolerated of any horses.
Inquire About Availability (approx. 7 slots open)