Horseback riding was introduced to the camp program in 1967, and remains a favorite among campers of all ages and abilities to this day. Our experienced, international riding staff brings knowledge, patience, and a love of riding to each class. Campers from both the boys’ and girls’ camps enjoy all that our horseback riding program has to offer.

Quality instruction is the key to success in equestrian pursuits. The Pok-O-MacCready program stresses a solid foundation in fundamentals, making for a confident rider who is ready to specialize in his or her chosen area, be it riding for pleasure or competition.

However, Pok-O-MacCready’s riding program is about much more than simply instruction. Our Horsemaster program gives campers the opportunity to form strong bonds with their horses, as well as teaches responsibility and teamwork.

INSTRUCTION

Under the guidance of a Riding Director and six full-time instructors, five daily one-hour classes are offered.  Campers can choose to take riding every day or every other day.  Naturally, the classes are designed to fit the rider’s level: beginner leadline; basic walk, trot and canter; posting; hunter skills; and all levels of jumping.

In addition, campers practice safety, while learning about the purposes and application of riding equipment:  the saddle, stirrups, reigns, bit and crop.

As the summer at camp progresses, campers are assured improvement, and are able to advance from one level to the next. Many of our most experienced riders return year after year, and continue to hone their riding skills while enjoying everything else camp has to offer.

FACILITIES

• 3 barns, containing 20 stalls
• 23 Horses
• 7 Instructors
• A hayloft located on the second floor of the tack barn
• Additional stables located on a wing of the tack barn
• Instructional riding ring
• 4 fenced-in rings with jumping courses
• 4 trailers equipped to transport horses to area HORSE SHOWS
• 5 paddocks
• Pastures

HORSE SHOWS

A summer highlight for many campers is the ability to take part in horse shows.  Each weekend, riders travel to equestrian events held around the region.

 While the shows present the ultimate challenge to riders, they are also designed to encourage fun and participation.  Classes of all levels are offered and virtually every rider leaves with a ribbon of some color, or at the very least, a tremendous sense of accomplishment.

 Traditionally, the summer horse show season begins with the “Mini MacCready”: a low pressure, all-inclusive camp event. The summer is punctuated by two “Big MacCready Horse Shows,” in which campers and outside entrants compete in front of a crowd of enthusiastic friends and visiting family.

Horse shows are not just about competition.  They also provide campers with the opportunity to concentrate on a goal, as well as visit new places and meet new people.

HORSEMASTERS

This unique and highly successful program gives campers the opportunity to develop a strong bond with their horses throughout the summer. Horsemasters wake up early and, with the help of the riding staff, feed, groom, and muck for their horses before heading to breakfast themselves.

The program gives another dimension to the riding program by teaching campers about all aspects of horse care. Each horse is the responsibility of the same camper or set of partners for the whole summer, and the campers do their jobs each morning and evening thoroughly and with pride; it is a very rewarding experience for campers and staff alike. Lessons learned in determination, confidence, and commitment stay with these children for life.

TRAIL RIDING

The beauty, nature and physical challenge of the Adirondack mountain wilderness are not just for humans. Four-legged hikers (and those on their backs) can appreciate the trail and at Pok-O-MacCready, we make sure they do!

Spreading out from camp and around Long Pond are dozens of miles of trails.  A large network of trails covers portions of the Adirondack High Peak region.  Be it local, or in the High Peaks, campers can take short jaunts, day-long trips, or extended overnight trail rides.

OTHER RIDING EVENTS

With our commitment to riding, there is no limit to the instruction and activities offered at Pok-O-MacCready.

Each year, campers visit the I Love New York show in Lake Placid, one of the nation’s largest professional Grand Prix events…. In past years, campers have had the opportunity to learn dressage and compete in barrel racing… Trips have been taken to the race track in Saratoga and the National Equestrian Hall of Fame.

Pok-O-MacCready Camps, P.O. Box 397, Willsboro, NY 12996
800.982.3538   www.pokomac.com   info@pokomac.com