What to Expect
Campers are matched with their own horse to work with all session in the arena and on trail rides. You’ll also get to help feed, groom, saddle, and help out with other barn chores. In overnight horse camp, we’ll also host an evening horse-themed activity, like a hoedown, horse game show, or pony painting.
What to Bring
Horse campers will need long, sturdy pants for riding (jeans work great). Boots with a heel (½” to ¾” and no tread) are required for riding. It’s great if you can bring your own boots, although camp also has a supply to borrow if needed. (Consider donating your used riding boots to camp!) Check thrift stores for used riding boots; Amazon and Stateline Tack have riding boots starting around $40. Camp Sealth will supply riding helmets; if your child wants to bring his or her own helmet, it must be ASTM-approved specifically for riding, and camp staff will inspect it for safety prior to use.
Safety
Camp Sealth owns its own herd of about 25 horses; they are calm, gentle horses with years of experience working with children. Riding instructors are highly skilled riders, and go through extensive training in horse behavior, emergency procedures, and much more. The program meets or exceeds all ACA standards for horseback riding, and the program is overseen by a CHA-certified instructor.
Schedule
Overnight Camp: Actual riding time each day is about 1 hour for each full day of the session; another 2 hours each day are dedicated to grooming, feeding, barn chores, ground lessons, or other “horsey” activities. The rest of the day is scheduled with Classic Camp activities like archery, challenge course, boating, etc.