BURLESON FARM FIELD GUIDE
An Afternoon with Kunekune: Belly Rubs and Piglets at Halbert Farm
A 1.5-hour, adult-only farm visit in Burleson led by owner and pig whisperer Joshua that walks you through backyard meet-and-greets, farrowing pens, paddocks and a pond—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
An Afternoon with Kunekune: Belly Rubs and Piglets at Halbert Farm.
Adventure brief
An Afternoon with Kunekune: Belly Rubs and Piglets at Halbert Farm
Set on Halbert Farm in Burleson, this hands-on, 1.5-hour experience places you in close quarters with kunekune pigs, playful piglets and a rotating cast of barnyard neighbors. Guided by owner Joshua, the tour moves from the backyard — home to the youngest kunekunes and the ‘instafamous’ house pig Ripley — through farrowing pens and paddocks to a pond where the herd enjoys treats and belly rubs, with likely visits from miniature zebu cows and other farm animals along the way.
Just a short drive from Burleson, Texas, Halbert Farm offers a charming 1.5-hour experience connecting visitors to one of the rarest and most affectionate pig breeds in the world: the Kunekune pig. Known for their gentle temperament and unique history, the Kunekune was once on the brink of extinction, but here at Halbert Farm, owner and pig whisperer Joshua has lovingly restored and nurtured a thriving herd. This experience is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, hands-on encounter with farm life and an up-close look at these fascinating animals in a family-friendly, welcoming setting.
From the moment you arrive at Halbert Farm, you’re invited into an intimate world where pigs are more than just livestock—they’re personalities. The tour begins in the backyard, where you’ll meet Ripley, the "instafamous" house pig, alongside the rambunctious youngest piglets. Joshua shares the compelling story of the Kunekune breed’s origins and conservation, creating a deeper appreciation for their rare status and gentle nature.
As you stroll the farm’s grounds, the path unfolds past farrowing pens that might hold expectant sows or nursing piglets depending on the season. The environment is vibrant with the presence of other farm residents—horses, a donkey, show chickens, and ducks—each adding texture to the farm’s lively ecosystem. The tour culminates at the paddocks, where the full Halbert Herd awaits, eager for treats and belly rubs. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the pigs’ intelligence; some even perform tricks like sitting on command.
The visit concludes with a friendly hello to the miniature zebu cows, an uncommon breed that adds a surprising twist to the farm’s lineup. Joshua ensures hydration with water or Gatorade, making the experience comfortable even during warmer months.
Halbert Farm stands out in the greater Burleson and Dallas-Fort Worth area for its commitment not only to animal welfare but also to authentic, educational farm engagement. It’s accessible, family-friendly, and offers a unique alternative to traditional Texas outdoor adventures. If you’re visiting Burleson seeking a hands-on experience that feels both restorative and fun, this farm tour provides a memorable day filled with laughter, learning, and the joy of animal connection.
In preparation, plan to wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can handle a bit of dirt. Be ready to walk about half a mile on uneven terrain, often muddy after rain. Early arrivals can explore nearby Starbucks, Target, or Lost Oak Winery to unwind before or after your farm encounter. This offbeat farm adventure is ideal for adults 18 and up looking to add a distinctive, heartwarming experience to their Texas itinerary.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Route Schematic
A linear, on-foot route that moves from the backyard through pens and paddocks with animal stops along the way.
Backyard Meet-and-Greet
Meet the youngest kunekunes and the house pig Ripley; an introduction to the herd and guidance on how to interact.
Farrowing Pens
Visit the farrowing area to see breeding pairs, expectant mothers or nursing piglets depending on season.
Barnyard Passage
Pass horses, a donkey, show chickens and ducks while your guide shares individual animal stories.
Paddocks and Pond
Meet the rest of the Halbert Herd at the paddocks, give treats by the pond and enjoy belly rubs before likely visiting miniature zebu cows.
Return to Backyard
Final goodbyes in the backyard with last treats for the youngest pigs and piglets.
The tour involves approximately a half-mile of walking across farm terrain that may be uneven, muddy or include small inclines; plan accordingly and expect the operator to alter the route for safety or animal needs.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Meet Ripley and the Kunekune Piglets
Begin in the backyard with the youngest kunekunes and Ripley, the household favorite, then move to farrowing pens where breeding pairs, expectant mothers or nursing piglets may be present depending on season—an intimate look at the breed’s gentle temperament.
A Breed Reborn
Your guide explains how kunekune pigs were brought back from near extinction and demonstrates the animals’ intelligence—some even sit on command—while sharing individual personalities from the Halbert Herd.
A Walk That’s More Than Pigs
The route passes horses, a donkey, show chickens and ducks and usually includes a visit with miniature zebu cows before ending back in the backyard for final treats and goodbyes.
What the day feels like
What the Visit Feels Like
The tempo is relaxed and tactile: a short backyard introduction, a quiet stroll through pens and paddocks, stops to hand out treats at the pond and plenty of time to sit with piglets. Joshua leads, tells the breed’s story, and demonstrates how to interact safely—expect close contact, affectionate pigs and the honest smells and textures of working farm terrain.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this visit suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Closed-toe shoes, clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty, sunscreen, a water bottle, a camera or phone, and a change of clothes if you have plans after the visit.
Weather-appropriate layers, a hat or jacket as needed, and sturdy closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven or muddy ground.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Cuddle with Kunekune Pigs experience?
The experience lasts 1.5 hours.
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Halbert Farm, 2436 FM 731, Burleson, TX 76028.
Is there an age requirement?
The experience is for ages 18 and over.
Who leads the tour?
The tour is led by Halbert Farm owner and pig whisperer Joshua.
What animals will I see?
You will meet kunekune pigs (including piglets), and you’ll likely pass horses, a donkey, show chickens and ducks, and may visit miniature zebu cows.
How much walking is involved?
Expect approximately a half-mile of walking across farm terrain that may be uneven, muddy or include small inclines.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-05T19:27:02.782Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.