Why is our riding program unique and important?
Campers in the riding program build meaningful connections with the horses and with our riding staff, who guide them in developing the trust, confidence, and responsibility it takes to work with horses. Through the shared experience of learning and growing together in the barn and ring, riders also form lasting bonds with one another that make the program especially rewarding.
Riding Lessons
Riding lessons are offered at all levels, from beginners on leadline to advanced riders learning to jump. Campers decide their riding goals and instructors work with the riders to reach those goals by the end of the session. Riders are placed in lessons with 2-4 other riders on the same level.
The riding staff is made up of the riding director and riding instructors who are highly qualified in the sport of horseback riding, care of horses, and helping young riders progress in the sport.
The program combines riding ring instruction with trail rides through our beautiful camp surroundings.
Responsibility and Rewards
All riders participate in Horsemasters, but it is open to everyone. Campers care for and bond with their horse and each other. They practice horsemanship skills such as grooming, mucking, and feeding. Campers learn to respect the animal and the relationship between horse and rider. The reward is not only in the clean barn and well kept horses, but also in the sense of pride and altruism gained from the hard work.
Special Events
Horse shows give campers a chance to showcase their riding progress in a fun and supportive environment. Riders of all levels participate in events that highlight their skills, from walk-trot-canter to jumping, with friends and counselors cheering them on. Horse shows take place after the 4 and 3-Week Visiting Days and families are welcome to attend.
Session Options and Pricing
7-Week Session
Every Day Riding: $1,250.00
3-Week Session
Every Day Riding: $550.00
4-Week Session
Every Day Riding: $725.00
Every Other Day Riding: $375.00
2-Week Sessions
Every Day Riding: $375.00
The Horseback program is the only class that requires pre-registration. Lessons are 70 minutes long and occur during the normal class schedule, Monday through Friday. Classes are held rain or shine, however, activities will shift to indoor horsemanship lessons when conditions are deemed inappropriate for riding. Horsemasters is an every day responsibility.
Horseback Riding Director Spotlight
Cate Moore, Riding Director (2023-present)
Cate’s connection to camp began in 2008 when she started riding at six years old and discovered a lifelong passion for horses that continued beyond camp, including owning her own horse. Cate returned to camp in 2021 as a section head and was on riding staff before becoming the Riding Director in 2023 under the mentorship of Sue Bagli and Leah Greenman.
After completing her master’s degree in 2025, Cate became a biology teacher for grades 9-12. She is also certified as an English riding instructor through the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA).
Cate’s goal for the riding program is to create a safe, fun, and educational environment where campers can develop their skills, build confidence, and discover a lasting love for horses and riding.
Favorite place on camp: Tack barn (obviously!)
Favorite camp event: Horse shows! Watching riders showcase everything they’ve learned and seeing their pride when they earn ribbons is truly priceless.