Camp Friendship: Equestrian Program

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Choice Camps Recommendation of Camp Friendship: Equestrian Program

Camp Friendship’s Equestrian Programs provide girls ages 8-16 with fun and safe horseback riding experiences and education. Three different equestrian programs offered in one and two week sessions are available and are designed for riders of all skill levels to master fundamental and advanced riding skills.

Located in central Virginia near the town of Palmyra in the scenic Blue Ridge foothills, Camp Friendship’s Equestrian Program provides girls with a fun and safe experience while they hone their skills in the various phases of horsemanship. Offering a structured sequence of activities fit for each girl’s skill and experience level, the Equestrian Program allows girls to bring their love of horses to action and build friendships and lasting relationships with other campers and staff.

Program Description

Three different programs appeal to horse lovers at every level. The Equestrian Program for beginning to advanced riders ages 10-16 offers access to horses all day. Girls receive two lessons a day along and participate in related horse activities. The Equestrian Program also includes a daily theory lesson where campers are instructed on the finer points of horseback riding. Theory lessons are often hands on and include lessons on horse anatomy, safety and first aid.

The Junior Girls with Riding Program for girls ages 8-12 offers a half day riding program for beginning to intermediate riders who want to participate in general camp activities. Additionally, the Recreational Riding program for coed campers ages 8-16 is offered as an option for all Camp Friendship general campers who are interested in choosing riding as one of their camp activities and are beginners in the world of horseback riding.

Campers are matched with a horse that they will ride for the duration of their session based on ability, size and personality. Each camper is responsible for the daily care of their horse which includes grooming, tacking, un-tacking and stall upkeep. All two week programs end with a camp horse show where riders show at their level.

Importantly, campers are encouraged to participate in evening activities and take part in group events such as talent shows, campfires and movies which allows riders to bond over the experiences of their day and build friendships.

Staff Overview

Equestrian Program instructors are selected from equestrian colleges and teams within the United States and around the world. Instructors all have equestrian experience as well as a love for children. The varied experience each instructor brings to the program equips riders with a unique knowledge of the equine experience around the world. All camp staff is trained each summer in safety procedures and instructional techniques.

Setting & Accommodations

Campers are housed in Huntmaster’s Lodge, a large dormitory divided into three bunk rooms each with its own bathroom. There is also a spacious central dorm area used for social and classroom activities.

Campers receive three nutritional, well-balanced meals a day in the dining hall. A salad bar and vegetarian options are available at each meal.

Over 80 horses are kept in the camp’s state of the art stables. There are four outdoor riding rings and a show jumping ring. Facilities also include a large indoor arena and 733 acres of open fields and trails where much of the program’s training takes place.

Safety Standards

Experienced instructors are dedicated to rider safety and riders are always accompanied by an instructor.

Camp Friendship is accredited by the American Camp Association. Camp Friendship is also a member of the International Camping Fellowship.

Camp Friendship: Equestrian Program Session Dates

Session Name	Dates	Ages	Tuition
Equestrian Camp	6/13/10-6/19/10	10-16	$1,050
Equestrian Camp	6/20/10-7/3/10	10-16	$2,100
Equestrian Camp	7/4/10-7/17/10	10-16	$2,100
Equestrian Camp	7/18/10-7/24/10	10-16	$1,050
Equestrian Camp	7/25/10-7/31/10	10-16	$1,050
Equestrian Camp	8/1/10-8/7/10	10-16	$1,050
Equestrian Camp	8/8/10-8/14/10	10-16	$1,050
Junior Girls With Riding	6/13/10-6/19/10	8-12	$1,050
Junior Girls With Riding	6/20/10-7/3/10	8-12	$2,100
Junior Girls With Riding	7/4/10-7/17/10	8-12	$2,100
Junior Girls With Riding	7/18/10-7/31/10	8-12	$2,100
Junior Girls With Riding	8/1/10-8/7/10	8-12	$1,050
Junior Girls With Riding	8/8/10-8/14/10	8-12	$1,050