Join the thousands of Columbia community members who have been experiencing the summer riding program since the 1940s.
- Open to children (age 8 and up) & adults at all riding levels
- Learn the basics of riding, horse care and safety
- Receive personal instruction from Stephens students with extensive teaching experience
Apply Now.
2013 Sessions Dates & Fees
Adult Evening CampFor All Levels - Western & Huntseat
Session Dates: May 13-18, 20-24, May 27-31 (FULL)
Stephens Equestrian Center
Time: 5–8:30 p.m.
Fee: $400
Learn Western and Huntseat riding skills and the basics of horse care management.
Child Day Camp I
For Beginner Riders - Western
Session Dates: June 3–7
Stephens Equestrian Center
Time: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Fee: $500
Child Day Camp II
For Intermediate Riders - Western & Huntseat
Session Dates: June 10–14 (FULL)
Stephens Equestrian Center
Time: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Fee: $500
Both day camps will include horse-related field trips, arts and crafts and more!
Important Note: Summer Riding Program fees are non-refundable.
Riding Classes
Beginning Riding
This class is for the first-time rider or the rider who has had minimal experience. Riders will gain knowledge on safety while working around horses. We will focus on grooming the horse and tacking up. The riders will begin to learn basic horsemanship skills. Riders will learn the foundation of riding skills to help them gain confidence and experience.
Huntseat
This class is open to riders who are in a current lesson program at a hunter jumper facility or to riders who have ridden in the Stephens College Summer Riding Program for at least three summers. This class focuses on the equitation of the Hunt Seat rider. We will work on cavaletti and jumping exercises based on riders ability.
Western
This class is open to riders who are in a current lesson program or to riders who have ridden in the Stephens College Summer Riding Program for at least three summers. This class focuses on the equitation of the Western rider. This class will focus on pattern work as well as trail patterns based on the rider's ability.
Praise from Past Campers
“I can’t say enough about the Stephens Summer Riding Program. Where else could you have access to such horses and horse sense? I learned so much and gained such valuable experience by riding different horses in various situations. I have ridden in the summer riding program for the past three years. It has been my ‘summer vacation.’ I was at first a reluctant rider but gained confidence and skill with the help of the excellent instructors.”
—Ann Roland (age 45)
“Once I get on I never want to get off! I count the days until Stephens.”
—Elaine Phillips (age 11)
Camp Veteran, 2006-08
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