YMCA Camp Ockanickon, Inc. in proud to announce that we will be offering our equestrian programming through Equishare USA, LLC, who offer safe and progressive equestrian programs, designed to enhance the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.  Their knowledgeable, friendly and fun instructors are lead by a certified Equestrian Director. If you should have any questions about the equestrian programming offered, please feel free to contact Equishare USA directly at seatonh@verizon.net

The programs are offered in English and Western equitation. However, our focus is on the fundamental skills, which are the same no matter the style you choose.

Even though riding is an important part of any equestrian program, camp focuses on teaching positive horsemanship and values, whether in the saddle or on the ground.  As horse people, we need to learn about the horse as much as the riding.  We need to learn their behaviors and personalities.
Each equestrian program is available for an additional fee.  Classes are scheduled by ability.

If you are a horse enthusiast or just want an exciting challenge doing something new, our equestrian experience will provide you with some of the most enjoyable memories from camp.  Many campers decide to sign up for additional weeks after having a good experience.

It is important to note that ALL Summer Camp Equestrian programs will take the place of a one or two hour block of the regular Camp schedule. 

Horse Riding Program (minimum age 8) 1 hours x 5 days
This is a program designed for those campers who want primarily want to ride without the in depth instruction of the Horsemanship Program. For the safety of the camper, there are some essential instructions and ground lessons on the first day prior to mounting the horses. The rest of the week is spent in the arena or on the trail.

Horsemanship Program (minimum age 8) 2 hours x 5 days
This is a more in-depth exposure to horses than our Horseback Riding Program, yet, still allows plenty of time for the participants to benefit from other camp activities. After reviewing the safety rules and material previously learned, participants are rotated through 3 stations, each lasting approximately 40 minutes. One station is the riding ring where participants receive a daily riding lesson by a certified Riding Instructor and an Assistant, that may include:  Balance Seat implementation exercises, Equistenics, Lungeing, learning how to post and, for the more advanced, some cantering and jumping. We will alternate between English and Western styles or give you the choice. The instruction usually takes place in the riding ring but we may opt for an occasional trail ride. The other stations consist of hands-on horsemanship sessions with the horses and may include some of the following: Safety on & around equines, Basic Anatomy, Senses & Body Language, Equine Breeds, Advanced Grooming, Barn Management, Careers in the Industry, First Aid, and more... We recommend bringing strong hiking-type shoes or riding boots, jeans/sweat/riding pants, a riding helmet -or Camp will provide one- fluids and ...a carrot. On Friday, we will set up a Gymkhana of fun-filled mounted games and horse-related ground activities.