Unforgettable Summer Horse Camps Every Barn Owner Should Try
Planning and hosting summer horse camps in 2025 goes beyond just filling your schedule—it’s about creating meaningful, memorable experiences for kids and horses alike. With over two decades of experience, I’ve learned that the magic of camp lies not just in the curriculum, but in the creativity, flexibility, and passion we bring to each session.
This year, I reached out to a community of over 80 barn owners and horse lovers who’ve run successful summer horse camps across the globe. The insights they shared reflect a deep love for teaching, growth, and fun. Here’s what we’ve learned together.
Why We Host Summer Horse Camps
Hosting summer camps offers multiple benefits for modern barn owners and instructors:
- Attracting new students to your barn
- Generating seasonal income
- Keeping lesson horses active
- Creating a bridge between kids and equestrian education
Beyond business, camps rekindle our joy as equine educators. As Dawn from New Jersey shared: “Camp week reminds me why I fell in love with horses in the first place.”
What Kids Love Most at Horse Camp
The secret to repeat signups? Experiences that go beyond the saddle. Kids remember the laughter, creativity, and team bonding:
- Water games like slip ‘n slides and balloon fights
- “Capture the Pony” camp-style games
- Pony painting and chalk art
- Pool noodle obstacle courses
- Beginner-friendly trick riding demos
- Scenic trail rides and picnic breaks
These activities do more than entertain—they build confidence, foster empathy, and create unforgettable memories.
The Balance: Structure vs. Spontaneity
Most barn owners go into camp week with a solid plan. But flexibility is key.
“I usually go in with a full itinerary, but I leave some breathing room for weather or energy-level curveballs.” – Dawn, NJ
A structured day ensures safety and flow, while spontaneous moments allow kids to explore freely, form connections, and lead their own fun.
What We’ve Learned (the Hard Way)
Even the most seasoned instructors face challenges:
- Balancing engagement for mixed-age riders
- Managing summer heat and hydration
- Ensuring allergy-friendly food plans
- Avoiding staff and horse burnout
- Marketing effectively to new families
Solutions include:
- Theme weeks to refresh content
- Shorter camp hours to beat the heat
- Limiting group sizes for safety and personalization
- Using platforms like CanterLope to organize curriculum, schedules, and communication
Popular Formats and Pricing in 2025
To help you benchmark, here’s how other barns structure their summer horse camps:
| Location | Format | Hours | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Indiana | 5 days, Mon–Fri | 9am–2pm | \$400 |
| Manitoba, Canada | 5 days | 9am–4:30pm | \$500 |
| Southern California | 5 days | 8am–1pm | \$750 |
| Coastal S. Carolina | 4 days, Tue–Fri | 8am–2pm | \$650 |
| New Jersey | 5 days, Mon–Fri | 9am–3pm | \$450 |
| Australia | 1-day half sessions | 11am–4pm | \$100 AUD/day |
| Connecticut | 5 weeks | 9am–2pm | \$400/week |
Want more support running your camp? Explore CanterLope’s features designed for busy barn owners.
The Power of Summer Horse Camp
Whether you run one-day clinics or full weekly sessions, summer horse camps are more than a seasonal program—they’re a community builder and a life-changer.
They inspire confidence in kids, strengthen the rider-horse bond, and remind instructors why they do what they do. The memories made during a week at camp often last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
If you’re preparing your 2025 camp schedule, consider this your sign to get creative, stay flexible, and lean into the joy that camp brings.
Need help getting organized? Learn how CanterLope supports instructors through curriculum planning, scheduling, and more. Or contact us to see how we can support your barn’s next big adventure.
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