About Bailiwick Ranch & Animal Park

A Family Legacy Since 1963

Bailiwick Ranch was founded in 1963 by Alfred “Ali”and Maria “Ria” Koschitzki. Nestled on over 300 private acres at the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, the ranch quickly became a destination for guided horseback riding and outdoor adventure. What began as a summer trail riding destination grew from Maria’s deep love of horses and her desire to share that passion with others.

After Maria’s passing, her son Gary Koschitzki continued her legacy and officially took over the ranch. In the 1980s, Gary and his wife, Robin, expanded the equestrian side of the business, developing the riding stable into a full program offering year-round riding lessons, training, and boarding. During this time, they constructed additional barns, including an 18-stall barn and both indoor and outdoor riding arenas, laying the foundation for what would become Catskill Equestrian Center.

The riding stable has operated continuously since its founding and is now home to over 40 horses and ponies, continuing a tradition of horsemanship that spans generations.

In 2007, Gary and Robin further expanded the family vision by opening Bailiwick Animal Park, creating a permanent home for rescued, donated, and surrendered animals. What began as an extension of a lifelong connection to animals evolved into a seasonal park focused on education, care, and meaningful family experiences.

The name “Bailiwick” comes from the family’s main residence — a distinctive Scottish-style castle situated at the heart of the property and visible upon entering the grounds. Designed and built by Ashcan School artist Everett Shinn, it remains a landmark of the ranch to this day.

Third Generation Leadership — A New Chapter

As of 2026, Tiffani Donahue officially acquired full ownership of Bailiwick Ranch & Animal Park, marking the beginning of its third generation of family stewardship.

Having grown up on the property and around animals her entire life, Tiffani carries forward the same deep respect for animal care and horsemanship that has defined Bailiwick for decades. As a dedicated horsewoman and educator, she brings both lifelong experience and a forward-looking vision to this next phase of the ranch.

Under her leadership, Bailiwick is entering a new chapter focused on thoughtful growth, elevated care standards, expanded programming, and ongoing facility improvements — while honoring the legacy built by her grandparents and father.

Improvements and enhancements are already underway, with more planned in the coming years, all with the goal of ensuring Bailiwick continues to grow and thrive for future generations.

Today at Bailiwick

Today, Bailiwick Ranch & Animal Park offers:

• Guided horseback trail rides (year-round)
• Riding lessons and equestrian programs
• Summer riding camps
• Pony rides
• A seasonal animal park featuring over 25 exhibits
• Animal encounters and educational programs
• Birthday parties, group events, and private experiences
• Traveling petting zoo and off-site animal events

As a privately owned, family-operated property, every decision is made with long-term care, responsibility, and sustainability in mind.

Our Commitment to the Animals

Bailiwick Animal Park is home to domestic and exotic animals, many of whom have come to us through rescue, donation, or surrender. These animals are not temporary exhibits — they are permanent members of our family.

We are not a state-funded or commercially operated zoo. We are a private, family-run property committed to providing lifelong care and enrichment for the animals entrusted to us.

Our mission remains simple:
To care for animals with compassion, to educate through connection, and to create meaningful experiences that inspire respect for wildlife and the natural world.

Every visit directly supports the care, feeding, veterinary needs, and housing of the animals who call Bailiwick home.