Profile information
Host rating
80 %
Last replied
4 Jan 2024
Feedback
36
Facebook verified
Email verified
Badges (3)
Details
Description
We are located 1 hour from San Diego, CA....and 2 1/2hours from Los Angeles.
Our Ranch is a horse ranch in a country setting and our main emphasis is partnering with our horses for riding in the open and eventing. We hope to share the "partnering" and “compassion for horses" that we have learned over the years.
We are looking for an energetic person to help with the horses and our kids OR someone to help with the ranch repairs. ...My daughter was involved in international exchanges that opened windows in her life that we could not ever image. She was treated so well by all of her hosts. We hope to pass on the same type experiences to others and to share the sites of our area. In order to do this, we suggest a minimum stay of at least one month and many stay up to three months.
***. Things have changed a bit since we lost our house due to fire.....BUT. The property atmosphere remains uplifting and we are making adjustments...So, now as Covid restrictions lift, we will be functioning without the coziness of the house and more in nature,,,,,We can use help more than ever..but if it is not a good fit for you. We understand....
Types of help and learning opportunities
Art Projects
Teaching
Animal Care
Farmstay help
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Our mission it to share with all, the unbelievable heart and willingness of "the horse"... We do not overpower our horses, but instead learn what they think and finesse them into being our partners...That way they use their brawn to our advantage and they love their jobs. Our workawayers get to know each other, members of our community and others around the world that have that "care for others attitude" and form lasting friendships...
Help
Help with retraining and rehomeing rescued horses. Lots of horse care, ride time and an option of continued lessons...
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
tiny log cabin w/ showerhouse/bath nearby. Or tent?
What else ...
Volunteers must be able to pass a background check, be good role models and have no visible tattoos or piercings for camps and have a clean neat appearance!
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
5+ hours / day. And added horse activities. We care for living animals who count on us for everything...but we try to group our hours to also fit in taking in the sites of our area.
Host ref number: 987819944574
Feedback (30)
12 Apr 2024
Left by Workawayer (Nadia) for host
I stayed at the ranch for a month in July 2023, it was a wonderful experience!
They maked me feel very welcome and they're really interested in you as a person.
I really enjoyed my time there with the family and the other workawayers and I will definitely come back one day!
communication was a little difficult sometimes because of the internet… read more
They maked me feel very welcome and they're really interested in you as a person.
I really enjoyed my time there with the family and the other workawayers and I will definitely come back one day!
communication was a little difficult sometimes because of the internet… read more
17 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (CARLA) for host
l wish l can give 6 star feedback for them, this has been the most amazing August of my life. l have experienced so much during my stay and words can’t describe my mood.
crystal is a cute and talkative lady full of stories, you could never get bored with her. she always speaks to me patiently and never despise my bad english. l wish my parents… read more
crystal is a cute and talkative lady full of stories, you could never get bored with her. she always speaks to me patiently and never despise my bad english. l wish my parents… read more
15 Mar 2023
Left by Workawayer (Ramsey & Karla) for host
What an incredible 10 days!
This experience was everything we hoped it could be!
Crystal and her family were very welcoming and incredible teachers.
Their breadth of knowledge about horses is vast!
We learned so much including how to care for the horses, clean them, feed them; we learned about horse temperaments, and even how to ride!
We were… read more
This experience was everything we hoped it could be!
Crystal and her family were very welcoming and incredible teachers.
Their breadth of knowledge about horses is vast!
We learned so much including how to care for the horses, clean them, feed them; we learned about horse temperaments, and even how to ride!
We were… read more
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(4.8)
12 Apr 2024
Left by Workawayer (Nadia) for host
I stayed at the ranch for a month in July 2023, it was a wonderful experience!
They maked me feel very welcome and they're really interested in you as a person.
I really enjoyed my time there with the family and the other workawayers and I will definitely come back one day!
communication was a little difficult sometimes because of the internet… read more
They maked me feel very welcome and they're really interested in you as a person.
I really enjoyed my time there with the family and the other workawayers and I will definitely come back one day!
communication was a little difficult sometimes because of the internet… read more
17 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (CARLA) for host
l wish l can give 6 star feedback for them, this has been the most amazing August of my life. l have experienced so much during my stay and words can’t describe my mood.
crystal is a cute and talkative lady full of stories, you could never get bored with her. she always speaks to me patiently and never despise my bad english. l wish my parents… read more
crystal is a cute and talkative lady full of stories, you could never get bored with her. she always speaks to me patiently and never despise my bad english. l wish my parents… read more
15 Mar 2023
Left by Workawayer (Ramsey & Karla) for host
What an incredible 10 days!
This experience was everything we hoped it could be!
Crystal and her family were very welcoming and incredible teachers.
Their breadth of knowledge about horses is vast!
We learned so much including how to care for the horses, clean them, feed them; we learned about horse temperaments, and even how to ride!
We were… read more
This experience was everything we hoped it could be!
Crystal and her family were very welcoming and incredible teachers.
Their breadth of knowledge about horses is vast!
We learned so much including how to care for the horses, clean them, feed them; we learned about horse temperaments, and even how to ride!
We were… read more
4 Jan 2021
Left by Workawayer (Devin) for host
I came to the place when others left quarantine to visit supermarkets en mass, giving me less time with the Wylies than their horses. My experience then, was warped by circumstances limiting though beneficial to my understanding of modern ranches, their values and people tested. Here's my review:
The Wylies are a special people.
Crystal is the… read more
The Wylies are a special people.
Crystal is the… read more
7 Oct 2019
Left by Workawayer (Parizod) for host
Sorry I am so late on feedback, I was here in March but what an amazing experience I had. I loved everyday hanging out with horse and the people at the place. They treat you like family. Very welcoming and excited to tell you about horses. It does get busy sometimes. I wanted stay longer sadly I had to study for the tests. I really hope to come… read more
15 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Carol)
Carol is a MIRACLE WORKER!
She came to our ranch to help with horses, as we took on a huge an overwhelming project. We learned to rely on her in every way,,,,She never flinched, jumped in with both feet and helped in all directions. Although she came to help with the horses, she also ended up preparing food for 12 +volunteers who all had… read more
She came to our ranch to help with horses, as we took on a huge an overwhelming project. We learned to rely on her in every way,,,,She never flinched, jumped in with both feet and helped in all directions. Although she came to help with the horses, she also ended up preparing food for 12 +volunteers who all had… read more
(Excellent
)
27 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (Jane) for host
I stayed at the Ranch for six weeks and it was amazing. Crystal, Ron and Kiersti makes the ranch feel like a second home and
there is always something to do at the ranch, even if you feel like there isn’t. And that is a good thing, you will never get bored. You can go for a trail ride around the beautiful surroundings at the ranch, and both… read more
there is always something to do at the ranch, even if you feel like there isn’t. And that is a good thing, you will never get bored. You can go for a trail ride around the beautiful surroundings at the ranch, and both… read more
15 Jun 2018
Left by Workawayer (Isabella) for host
HOME.
is the place where your heart is.
and a part of mine ,it'll stay there for long time, probably forever
Great Family Great Person Great Experience.
Thank you again for taking care of me when I was bad.,
you've really made me feel Like a daughter -Sister.
I ll back to say you hello.
God bless your lives
Isabella.
is the place where your heart is.
and a part of mine ,it'll stay there for long time, probably forever
Great Family Great Person Great Experience.
Thank you again for taking care of me when I was bad.,
you've really made me feel Like a daughter -Sister.
I ll back to say you hello.
God bless your lives
Isabella.
31 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Christina) for host
It's been two weeks since I left the Ranch and I was there for almost twelve weeks. As all the other workawayers commented while I was there, it feels like home. The Wylies are an incredible family and I appreciate the opportunity to live and work with them as well as learn so much from them. I met some great travelers I hope to keep in touch… read more
22 Apr 2018
Left by Workawayer (Jane) for host
I spent about a month here on the ranch and I had the best time. The place is beautiful and I absolutely loved being around the horses. When I arrived there were a lot of workawayers due to the Pentathlon World Cup. It was a nice experience to help with the horses at the Pentathlon in Pomona. We had a great team of workawayers, other volunteers… read more
12 Mar 2018
Left by Workawayer (Tove) for host
I spent a wonderful month at this Ranch, the Wylies are great hosts and as there are a lot of other workawayers there, making it a very sociable place. I came here to learn more about horses and riding and always had the opportunity to ride several times a day if I wished and also to ride in some of Kiersti's lessons which was very educational.… read more
8 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Kim Celine)
Kim was a delight to have as a visitor/volunteer!..She is soft spoken and does not assert herself, but blends in behind the scenes to see how things are done and then pitches in 150% with her very high standards!! It took me a while to notice how much talent she brought with her. Kim was always safe and kind with the horses and the kids! And then… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Dec 2017
Left by Workawayer (Kim Celine) for host
I stayed with Crystal and her wonderful family and horses for 1.5 months this summer and it seriously was the best decision I could have made. From day 1 I was a part of the family and they made it almost impossible for me to feel homesick. Even though the work can sometimes be hard, they always appreciate your work you never ever feel like you… read more
15 Jul 2017
Left by Workawayer (David) for host
I fled the rains of North Californian winter, and ended up at the ranch with the Wylies for almost two months early 2017, learning it rains in Southern California too ;-) The place is ab-so-lutely amazing, though! Never having had a lot of experience with horses, I got to know pretty quick they all have their own personalities and their own little… read more
9 Feb 2017
Left by Workawayer (Judith & Jakob) for host
Oh I am so sorry, I just realized I never wrote a feedback!!
So here we go:
I came to stay only for a week with Crystal, Ron & Kiersti on the ranch as it was a very spontaneous decision to come. Even though workawayers are supposed to stay longer I was welcomed so heartly and immediately felt comfortable on the ranch (Ron prepares awesome… read more
So here we go:
I came to stay only for a week with Crystal, Ron & Kiersti on the ranch as it was a very spontaneous decision to come. Even though workawayers are supposed to stay longer I was welcomed so heartly and immediately felt comfortable on the ranch (Ron prepares awesome… read more
13 Jan 2017
Left by Workawayer (Alessandro) for host
I spent a couple of weeks in this place, all the family is really lovely, Crystal and Kierstie are a great trainers and have a huge passion about horses. I loved the time spent with them but unfortunately was a short time. Thank you so much for everything.
13 Dec 2016
Left by Workawayer (Ruby) for host
This was my first workaway experience - and it was a brilliant one to have! I stayed with Crystal, Kiersti and Ron for four weeks, and was one of eight volunteers so it was exceptionally sociable. Crystal, Ron and Kiersti are so accommodating and willing to let you get very involved with all of the horses, and make you feel like one of the family… read more
18 Nov 2016
Left by Workawayer (Maria) for host
This was my first experience as workawayer and I only have good memories! I only could stay for 2 weeks but it was enough to enjoy and meet a lot of people.
Though the day starts early, you only work (as they say) 5 hours maximum, and you have plenty of time to ride and do other stuff. They also take you to see the San Diego and different… read more
Though the day starts early, you only work (as they say) 5 hours maximum, and you have plenty of time to ride and do other stuff. They also take you to see the San Diego and different… read more
22 Oct 2016
Left by Workawayer (Beth & Huw) for host
We had a great time during our four week stay on the ranch. It was hard work and early starts every day, but it was fun! Our first few days there were super busy, as we had to prepare for and help run a pony club model horse rally. These were long days and we didn't have time to ride, but after that it calmed down and we rode most days. Most of… read more
13 Sep 2016
Left by Workawayer (PhilippaKnecht) for host
I spent 6 weeks at this incredible beautiful place. It’s been almost two months since I left, but I still miss all the nice people and kind horses. There is a lot of work at a ranch, but there was always time to go to the beach and to the stampede, a bar, where you can do line dancing. I learned horse riding with Crystal, who is really patient… read more
12 Jun 2016
Left by Workawayer (Florence) for host
Being a workaway at Ron, Crystal and Kiersti's ranch has been one of the best decisions I've ever made and I loved everything about my time there. Having already done a lot of travelling this year I decided to do something a little bit out of my comfort zone, where I would learn new skills and experience actually living out of a city environment. … read more
23 Sep 2015
Left by Workawayer (Ellie_1995) for host
Wow what a great week I've had! I was so lucky to be taken on by the Crystal, Kierstie and Ron for my last week in the United States. I have had an incredible time learning and living on this beautiful ranch and I wish I could have stayed for a lot longer because there is so much to see and do. Even though I was there for such a short time it felt… read more
29 Jul 2015
Left by Workawayer (Carolin) for host
It's been almost two months now, since I left the beautiful ranch and I am still sad that I had to leave and I think very often about the great time I had there.
If you are sitting at home, sceptically thinking whether you should go there or not (just like I did) - JUST GO THERE! You will have a great time, I promise.
The family, consisting of… read more
If you are sitting at home, sceptically thinking whether you should go there or not (just like I did) - JUST GO THERE! You will have a great time, I promise.
The family, consisting of… read more
18 Feb 2015
Left by Workawayer (Annabel) for host
A very belated feedback for what I can describe as a most welcoming and rewarding stay and just what I needed to round off the end of a difficult last year.
The magic and gentle energy of all those horses, whom I miss so much, along with all the other wonderful animal family members. Thankyou to the family for making me feel so welcome and… read more
The magic and gentle energy of all those horses, whom I miss so much, along with all the other wonderful animal family members. Thankyou to the family for making me feel so welcome and… read more
2 Jan 2015
Left by Workawayer (Sonja) for host
I really loved my 2 months stay at this ranch. I was there for October and November but I wasn't able to write anything because I had to organize my thaughts and feelings. Ron, Crystal and Kiersti are awesome people. I was the only workawayer during my first month there but there were five others during my second month and the work was ten times… read more
22 Oct 2014
Left by Workawayer (Vera) for host
When I first arrived here I felt like I had pulled into an enchanted forest. Large Oak trees shade the drive up to the house in a cozy canopy. I was greeted warmly by Kiersty, Crystal and Ron. Over the next three weeks I had a wonderful time getting to know their 50+ horses and exploring the meandering trails that covered the property. The Wylies… read more
13 Jul 2014
Left by Workawayer (Krystelle & Justin) for host
We were lucky enough to be given the opportunity to stay with Crystal, Ron & Kiersti at the ranch and while it was only a short time we really enjoyed our experience.
There are close to 50 horses on the property, 30 peacocks, a donkey, 2 dogs, 2 house cats and more recently a family of 7 feral kitties!! Our day would be spent mucking stalls,… read more
There are close to 50 horses on the property, 30 peacocks, a donkey, 2 dogs, 2 house cats and more recently a family of 7 feral kitties!! Our day would be spent mucking stalls,… read more
12 Jul 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Krystelle & Justin)
Krystelle and Justin were traveling thru and asked to stay only a week. We ususally need a longer stay...but somehow their sincerity and honesty rang thru and we agreed to have them come help out...They are on a world tour, not as couch surfers but as a fully skilled and capable couple who are going to set the world on fire with their talents I… read more
(Excellent
)
16 May 2014
Left by Workawayer (Anke) for host
I don't even know how to start this.. With lots of crying (from me), even though I told Kiersti there wasn't going to be any, I left the ranch after 7 unforgettable weeks. I only planned on staying for 2 but that didn't really work out.
The horses, the people, the dogs, .the cats.. everything was PERFECT! I couldn't have wished for a better… read more
The horses, the people, the dogs, .the cats.. everything was PERFECT! I couldn't have wished for a better… read more
16 Feb 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Inga)
I can't write yet...we are still all crying because you had to leave..!
(Excellent
)
15 Feb 2014
Left by Workawayer (Inga) for host
I had such a great time! Crystal and her family took great care of all of us and made us feel like home. I enjoyed every single day at this place and I was really sad that I had to leave.
If you like horses or if you want to learn something about horses its a great place to go as you will get excellent riding lessons and a lot of riding… read more
If you like horses or if you want to learn something about horses its a great place to go as you will get excellent riding lessons and a lot of riding… read more
16 Feb 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Lauren)
Hi Lauren,
You came with an open heart and eagerness to soak up what this farm/animal life is all about....I think you learned that it is more than flannels and I hope you get to clue everyone you meet in. You joined us in early morning cold and the late evening caring...You took to heart the importance of our feed and water schedules and did a… read more
You came with an open heart and eagerness to soak up what this farm/animal life is all about....I think you learned that it is more than flannels and I hope you get to clue everyone you meet in. You joined us in early morning cold and the late evening caring...You took to heart the importance of our feed and water schedules and did a… read more
(Excellent
)
20 Jan 2014
Left by Workawayer (Lauren) for host
I stayed herefor about 3 months and had an unforgettable experience. The Wylies really treat you and the other volunteers as part of the family. They are very kind people with an enormous amount of knowledge about horses, which makes them great people to learn from. I came here with no experience and not only learned how to ride, but also… read more
24 Dec 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Eric)
Eric was our first workaway volunteer and he has sold us on the whole program...He came open minded and eager to experience new things as well as share his expertice's with us. I still feel that he has more to share but is respectful of trying it all "our way" first...
He couldn't have come at a better time, and his willingness to jump in and… read more
He couldn't have come at a better time, and his willingness to jump in and… read more
(Excellent
)
23 Dec 2013
Left by Workawayer (Eric) for host
My 3 month stay here was too short and I intend to return! The family is understanding, caring, and they are very knowledgable with all equestrian topics. Almost all, if not all of their horses are trained for English style riding, but if you are an open minded western rider, they are wonderful teachers. I started my time here with no riding… read more
21 Oct 2013
Left by Workawayer (Anaïs) for host
I recommend this place, it was very good! all the family are lovely, the job is enjoyable and the place for slept is very nice: so it was a very good moment and very interesting! thank you Crystal's family!
