The Equestrian (EQ) Specialty Camp offers an immersive experience for 5th – 9th grade campers who want to dive deep into the world of Western horsemanship. Campers in EQ spend the majority of their time honing their riding skills, learning about animal care, and bonding with a smaller community of dedicated horse lovers. Each camper is assigned their own horse, allowing them to build a unique connection through daily arena lessons, trail rides, and mounted games. A highlight of the program is an overnight horse-packing trip, where campers venture into the Outer 400 for a true wilderness experience. With over 60 years of expertise in small group equine programming, Ranch Camp provides an opportunity for both beginner and intermediate riders to grow under the guidance of our qualified instructors. 

Toshavim campers in EQ will focus on horsemanship and will not participate in the 7th or 8th grade trips, allowing them to fully engage in this intensive program. EQ campers also enjoy special opportunities each year, such as visiting a rodeo, showcasing their skills in an all-camp event, or even teaching staff how to ride. 

This program is ideal for campers looking to improve their riding abilities while learning the ins and outs of horse care and Western riding in a fun, supportive environment. 

Our EQ program is offered every session, exclusively for riders in grades 5 – 9, and caters to beginners and advanced. Intermediate and advanced riders in grades 9 – 11 are invited to experience our teen programs, Pack N’ Ride and Wrangler in Training. 

• Campers will be grouped by age and ability. 
• Campers will spend most of their activity time with their horses (except for Shabbat—horses need rest, too!) 
• Horses are matched with riders based on ability, personality, and rider goals. 
• 16-18 riders/session with 8-9 campers per arena. 
• Every arena will have one instructor and one assistant. 
• Program time is split between arena work, trail rides, and horse care on Ranch Camp’s beautiful 400-acre property in Elbert, CO. 
• Campers will enjoy one overnight ride/session (weather permitting) to ride their horses out and camp under the stars! 
• Campers participate in theme days such as Maccabiah (Color War) and Israel Day. 

The EQ Program welcomes children without any prior horse experience; however, we do suggest your child spend some time around horses before the program begins. We recommend this to determine their interest level, as EQ is an intensive and immersive horse-focused program, and we want them to make sure they are ready to saddle on board! 

EQ riders with more experience may be leveled up depending on their riding abilities, which will be evaluated during the first few days of the program. Instructors will meet with campers on an individual basis to determine their riding level and horse matches for the session.