Gil’s and Krista’s Moto
Honoring the journey, the animals, and every moment in between.
Starlight Equestrian Ranch is a family-owned, labor of love born from a deep respect for the land, a passion for horses, and a heartfelt commitment to preserving the equestrian lifestyle in Big Bear. What began as a simple idea rooted in need has grown into a meaningful mission: to restore, reimagine, and breathe new life into a truly magical ranch.
As horse-owning residents of Big Bear City, we understand how special this community is. We are motivated by the belief that the equestrian way of life should not only endure but continue to thrive, welcoming riders and horse lovers of all levels, ages, and backgrounds.
In November 2025, this remarkable property was introduced to us by close friends. From the very first step onto the land, we felt it. The energy. The History. The promise. This ranch, once a successful three-generation equestrian operation, had been quietly waiting after years of dormancy, ready for new stewards to honor its legacy and guide it into its next chapter. We knew immediately this place was magical and was meant to be revived, cherished, and shared.
Our mission is to thoughtfully develop a welcoming, well-cared-for ranch that offers meaningful services, gatherings, and experiences, strengthening the bonds between horses, people, and the community.
We are committed to creating a place where memories are made, traditions are honored, and new adventures begin.
We are deeply grateful to open our doors and invite the equestrian community, animal lovers, families, and visitors to experience the beauty, peace, and magic of Starlight Equestrian Ranch. This is more than a ranch, it’s a journey, and we’re honored to share it with you.
Connect with us. Visit us. Be part of the story.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a visit to our thriving equestrian ranch!
About the Owners
Starlight Equestrian Ranch is proudly owned and operated by Gil and his wife, Krista, whose shared vision, values, and love for animals are at the heart of everything we do.
About Gil
Gil was raised in Zacatecas, Mexico, by his parents and grandparents on a working farm ranch. From the age of six, he worked alongside his siblings caring for horses and the many animals that make up ranch life. Those early years instilled in him a deep work ethic, responsibility, and respect for animals and the land, values that continue to guide him today.
Growing up, Gil was deeply immersed in the traditions of Charrería alongside his father Jose and his brother, Alfredo, who will always be remembered and dearly missed. Through this rich cultural heritage, Gil developed not only strong horsemanship skills, but also a profound respect for the sacred bond between horse and rider. His upbringing instilled in him a lifelong love for animals and a natural understanding of what it takes to run a ranch with care, discipline, responsibility, and heart.
More than 40 years ago, Gil moved to California, never imagining that life would one day come into full circle, bringing him back to the world he loved so deeply as a child. Owning and operating Starlight Equestrian Ranch is more than a dream realized; it is a return to his roots and a continuation of a legacy built on hard work, respect, and passion for horses.
Gil is incredibly blessed, grateful, enthusiastic, and excited to create meaningful experiences, lasting memories, and a welcoming space for the community at Starlight Equestrian Ranch, a place where tradition, heart, and new beginnings come together.
About Krista
Krista is a compassionate, dedicated animal lover whose values and spirit are deeply woven into the heart of Starlight Equestrian Ranch. As a committed vegan, her lifestyle reflects a profound respect for animals and the belief that every living being deserves care, dignity, love, and kindness. This philosophy guides not only how she lives, but how the ranch is envisioned and operated each day.
From a young age, Krista has had a natural connection with horses. She previously owned a mare named Maddie, and spent many joyful hours riding, building trust, and forming a deep bond that only horse lovers truly understand. In the saddle, Krista is calm, confident, and instinctive, she embraces spirited horses with grace and assurance, never backing down from their energy or strength. She appreciates their intelligence, sensitivity, and individuality, seeing them not just as animals, but as partners.
Krista’s passion for horses goes hand in hand with her genuine love for all animals. She brings patience, empathy, and thoughtful care to everything she does, helping create a ranch environment that feels safe, nurturing, welcoming for animals and people alike.
Together with Gil, Krista is excited and deeply grateful to embark on this new chapter. Their shared journey is rooted in purpose, joy, and a mutual commitment to doing what they love most: caring for horses, honoring the land, and creating meaningful experiences at Starlight Equestrian Ranch.
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A Star of Starlight Equestrian Ranch
Meet Galaxy
Galaxy is a perfect reflection of the spirit of Starlight Equestrian Ranch—celestial, majestic, and unforgettable. This stunning Friesian Paint cross mare embodies grace, strength, and calm confidence, capturing the magic and elegance that define our ranch.
With her striking presence and gentle soul, Galaxy represents the harmony between beauty and power that we strive to offer in every experience at Starlight. She is not just part of our ranch; she is a living symbol of our connection to the stars, the land, and the timeless bond between horse and rider.
At Starlight Equestrian Ranch, Galaxy shines as one of our brightest stars.
