Equestrian Program
We offer a variety of activities, programs, and camps throughout the year for all levels of riders including both children and adults.
Both English and Western lessons offered.
Everyone participating in any Equestrian Program at Camp Speers must wear long pants and boots with a defined heel of no more then ½ – 1 inch. No open toed shoes will be allowed at the barn.
Safety first, always!
We are busy planning Summer 2023! This summer, we will be following all CDC, local, state, and government guidance. We will continue to keep lines of communication open and transparent as summer approaches. One thing we know for sure: Kids will need camp more than ever.
Read our Summer Safety Information
Equestrian Camp Programs
Overnight Camps
Cowgirls Roundup (grades 4 – 10):
1 Week Program: June 25 – June 30
2 Week Program: July 16 – July 28
Join other girls for a traditional overnight camp experience with an equestrian focus. This program provides the best of both worlds. Campers are grouped according to skill level and will spend part of each day at the equestrian center learning stable management skills as well as improving their riding skills. Campers will also have the opportunity to bring in and feed horses in the morning and enjoy an evening trail ride. When not at the barn, campers will be able to try their hand at traditional activities such stand-up paddle boarding, climbing tower, archery, arts and crafts. No experience necessary for this program, just a love of horses.
Riders Roundup (grades 4 – 10):
1 Week Program: July 30 – August 4
2 Week Program: July 2 – July 14
A traditional overnight camp experience with an equestrian focus. This program provides the best of both worlds. Campers are grouped according to skill level and will spend part of each day at the equestrian center learning stable management skills as well as improving their riding skills. Campers will also have the opportunity to bring in and feed horses in the morning and enjoy an evening trail ride. When not at the barn, campers will be able to try their hand at traditional activities such stand-up paddle boarding, climbing tower, archery, arts and crafts. No experience necessary for this program, just a love of horses. This program is available for all genders, though campers will spend time at the Equestrian Center together, they will live in single gender housing.
Junior Equestrian (grades 3 – 5):
1 Week Program: August 6 – August 11
A traditional overnight camp experience with an equestrian focus for our youngest riders. This program provides the best of both worlds. Campers are grouped according to skill level and will spend part of each day at the equestrian center learning stable management skills as well as improving their riding skills. When not at the barn, campers will be able to try their hand at traditional activities such as stand-up paddle boarding, climbing tower, archery, arts and crafts. No experience necessary for this program, just a love of horses.
Farm Camp (grades 3 – 6):
1 Week Program: July 16 – July 21
2 Week Program: August 6 – August 11
These free-range campers will learn about life on the farm as they spend their day tending our farm animals like horses, goats, and chickens, harvesting vegetables and collecting chicken eggs to cook yummy, new meals, and learning to care for the land around them. When not frolicking around the farm, these campers will enjoy other fun camp experiences like crafts, swimming, boating, and sports.
Day Camps
Horse Lovers (offered all sessions for 4th – 10th graders): A traditional day camp experience with an equestrian focus. This program provides the best of both worlds. Campers are grouped according to skill level and will spend part of each day at the equestrian center learning stable management skills as well as improving their riding skills. Campers will head out for a trail lunch as well as participate in a riding demonstration on Friday. When not at the barn, campers will be able to try their hand at traditional activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, climbing tower, archery, arts and crafts. No experience necessary for this program, just a love of horses.
Farm Camp (offered August 7 – August 11 for 4th – 7th graders): We’re excited to offer this program where campers can learn more about farm animals, try their hand at horse care and riding, and learn about animal habitats and the proper food and care needed for all different kinds of animals. Campers will also work in the camp garden to learn about growing food, composting, and creating healthy snacks with homegrown fruits and veggies.
Group Lessons
Our 5-week program is offered in both the Spring and Fall for riders ages 8 and up. Group lessons meet one day a week for five weeks. Beginner through intermediate (WTC, beginner jumping) classes are available.
Spring Program: Dates TBD
Fall Program: Dates TBD
Level 1
Intro to Horseback Riding – This class is designed for students new to the sport of horseback riding. Lessons will focus on safety around horses, leading and mounting, proper position, and the basics of steering and control.
Level 2
Starter – This class is designed for students who have already participated in the introductory program. Students should be able to lead and mount their horse correctly as well as be proficient at steering at the walk. Lessons will focus on safety around horses, proper position and introducing work at the trot.
Level 3
Beginner Novice – This class is designed for students who are proficient at the walk and comfortable at the trot. Students should be ready to work on posting and steering while trotting. Lessons will focus on safety as well as developing more proficiency and independence at the trot.
Level 4
Novice – This class is designed for students who can demonstrate proficiency at both the walk and trot. Students should be able to trot (both sitting and rising) off lead while maintaining both proper position and control of the horse. Students at this level may be ready to begin learning to canter as well as work in the two-point position.
Level 5
Intermediate – This class is designed for students who can demonstrate proficiency at both the walk and trot, including proper diagonals, sitting trot and two-point. Students will also be working on cantering. Trot poles and cross rails may be introduced at this level.
Private Lessons
Enjoy a one-on-one experience tailored to meet the riding goals of your young rider ages 6 and up.
45-minute Private Lessons
Email campers@philaymca.org for more information.
Pony Party
During this hour and a half experience, you and your child will learn about safety around horses, how to brush one of our ponies, go for a pony ride and work on an art project to bring home. This program is designed for children ages 3-8. In order to go for a pony ride, child must be able to sit up and hold on to the saddle. All children age 5 and under must be accompanied by a parent/guardian who will walk with them on their pony ride.
Pricing: $20 per child
Want to schedule a private pony party? Give us a shout! Email: campers@philaymca.org
Weight Policy
Our horses range in size from 750 – 1100 pounds and can comfortably carry between 15-20% of their body weight. Keeping the safety, health and comfort of both our participants and horses in mind, the maximum weight our horses can carry is 225lbs. For anyone 5’4” and under, our maximum weight is 180lbs. Thank you for your understanding.