The program is well-organized and non-competitive, yet flexible, allowing campers a choice in the type of activities they are interested in. Prior to arrival, campers are sent a medical form and a parent/camper information sheet. This allows our staff to begin getting acquainted with campers ahead of time. It also gives us an idea of previous camp experience and expectations of both parent and camper.

Upon their arrival at camp, riders are given a short mounted riding evaluation so they can be grouped according to the rider’s ability and riding style. We have campers who have had very little riding experience to very advanced riders. S.E.I. approved riding helmets are required for all campers and staff, and we do have rental helmets available for those who do not have their own.

     

Trails with names such as Wildcat, Blackberry Ramble, Paradise Hill, Squirrels’ Nest, and Crooked Oaks abound with wildlife. Deer, red foxes, wild turkeys, raccoons and red tail hawks are frequently seen in their natural habitat.

Horsemanship is emphasized at Hoofbeat, with Western and English riding lessons are offered by certified riding instructors. Campers receive daily riding lessons and riders are grouped according to their riding ability and riding style.

Daily horse care classes cover topics such as safety, grooming and saddling, first aid, herd behavior and training. These classes are divided by a camper’s knowledge based off a short quiz they take at the beginning of the week. We also raise and train a few of our own horses each year. The older, more experienced campers are allowed to work with these future Hoofbeat steeds while under supervision. Chief, Scout, Demetri, Shamrock, and Ladd are a few of the many gentle, well-trained horses campers will meet.