Richmond Hill lies in the area between 20 and 40 miles to the north of Toronto, Ontario, which is very much equestrian territory, and is the home to many riding schools, stables and studs. In harmony with other equestrian establishments, several of the riding schools in this area now offer horseback riding camps in summer, winter or both.
Richmond Hill Camps
Richmond Hill and its environs has several horse riding schools, and you'll find several options in horseback riding camps. Try the York Equestrian Riding School in Bloomington Road, Stouffville, which runs nonresidential horseback riding camps for children aged 6 and up. Another option is the Whitchurch Riding Academy just outside Newmarket, which runs a series of Summer Riding Camps for children aged 7 to 16. A third option in the same general area is the WaterStone Summer Riding Camp in King Township near Newmarket.
Activities
Activities naturally differ slightly from one camp to another, but you will find the same basic activities at each camp. You'll get to know how to look after a horse and you'll get to ride on one a couple of times a day. You'll be taught about the equipment that is used, be shown the tack room and barn care. All three of these schools have an indoor arena that is used during inclement weather. Most important, you'll be taught how to groom your horse and will get to do that before and after a riding lesson.
Dress and Equipment
Essential equipment includes wearing a pair of long pants and boots that have a heel and a smooth sole. If you own a riding helmet, bring it along, otherwise helmets may be rented from the various schools. Take a soft hat to wear outside in summer when you're not actually riding. The camps are essentially day camps, so you'll be traveling to the camp each day. Whitchurch occasionally runs an overnight stay which includes a supervised evening ride, a swim and a bonfire.
Equine Assisted Therapy
Playing and working with horses gives both adults and children an excellent chance to come into contact with the expanded awareness that is the world of the horse. Such an activity can be extremely therapeutic to children and adults who have either a physical or mental disability. Waterstone's Horses at Heart Therapeutic Equestrian Adventures promotes leadership and partnership skills, emotional awareness, goal setting and an enhanced understanding of the relationship between human and horse.
Safety
It's a long way to fall when riding horseback, and it is potentially a dangerous pastime. Always wear a hard helmet when riding a horse, and above all always follow your riding instructor's instructions precisely. You or your parents will probably be asked to sign an indemnity form before commencing camp.
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