Summer Horseback Riding at Forest Lake Camp

English riding, Western riding, trails and jumping

Forest Lake Camp has offered horseback riding as an option since 1926. Over 50% of our campers opt to enroll in our equestrian program each year.

The camp maintains its own riding facilities including stables, rings and miles upon miles of wilderness, allowing campers to ride within the secure confines of Forest Lake Camp property. Riders have the option of two or four lessons per week. A riding lesson is scheduled for one hour. Once the instructors identify a rider’s proficiency, the riders are grouped by ability, making the lessons efficient and informative.

For safety reasons, all beginner riders start out on “Western” saddles. Once a “seat” has been developed, they have the option to graduate to an “English” saddle. The focus of the lesson is on equitation, which equips riders with the skills to be safe and to enjoy the sport. The more advanced riders have the opportunity to learn basic dressage and/or jumping once the instructors deem them qualified. Other safety measures involve the use of safety stirrups and protective headgear for all riders regardless of their ability.

Stable management, horse grooming, and the basics of horse healthcare are incorporated into the equestrian program. At the conclusion of each camp session, all of the riders conduct a horseshow for the entire camp to enjoy