What will you do this Summer?
Summer is coming, and it is time to start thinking about where to go on vacation. When planning the family vacation, somehow incorporating horses into the trip is a natural fit for many equestrians. The idea is such a popular one that there are many options to do this, whether with your own horses or rented ones.
Dude Ranches/Guest Ranches
Dude ranches, also known as guest ranches, are the classic vacation idea to get the complete western experience. They are generally all-inclusive, with accommodations on-site in cabins or quaint inns and food served in the ranch’s dining room or by the campfire.
Dude ranch vacations are usually free-form rather than structured, allowing guests to participate in whichever activities they like. Choices vary from ranch to ranch, but horseback riding is universal. Guided or independent trail rides can last anywhere from a couple of hours to all day.
Another requisite dude ranch activity is a campfire or cookout. Guests are transported back to the old west, when cowboys sat around the campfire singing songs. Guests will gather around for a delicious cook-out meal and sing songs together—a great social activity.
Some other common dude ranch activities include country dancing, trips to ghost towns or other site-seeing spots, fishing, hunting, swimming and boating. There is something for every member of the family, young and old.
Cattle Drives
Cattle drives give a whole new meaning to the words “working vacation”. Saddle up for an old-fashioned cattle drive, where you help keep the herd in line and camp out under the stars.
Cattle drives vary in authenticity. Some involve driving cattle from one location to another simply for the entertainment value and provide little challenge to an experienced rider. Others take place on actual, working cattle ranches where the guests become the workers, doing necessary work to round up cattle or move them to where they need to go. This may involve riding through rugged, trackless wilderness to find stray cows.
Cattle drive vacations often involve living on a working ranch and doing the ranch work just like the cowboys, but they have some relaxing fun as well. Guests might mend fences for a few hours, then watch some calf roping and branding, then take a buggy ride, pitch some horse shoes or explore the countryside.
Hunting Lodges
While a hunting lodge might seem like the kind of vacation Dad goes on with his buddies, it can also be something for the whole family to enjoy. While the main focus of a hunting lodge is to outfit guests with hunting gear, they also provide other fun activities like boating, swimming and horseback riding—it all depends on the individual lodge.
While some hunting expeditions are conducted on foot or in jeeps, others are on horseback, riding into the wilderness to track game, shoot it, and pack it out again. Hunters can camp out under the stars while their less rugged family members enjoy the comforts of the lodge.
Hunting lodges offer a range of vacation packages, from very basic “roughing it” trips, where guests do all of their own work, to luxurious deluxe packages where the staff takes care of everything—all the guest has to do is shoot. In any case, the guest will likely have a freezer full of meat to send home and enjoy for weeks to come.
Trail Riding Vacations
Trail riding vacations are the purest form of horse vacation. It is also the perfect idea for vacationers who dislike crowds! The beauty of it is that you can go nearly anywhere you want to, taking your horse along to get away from the civilized world for a while. Explore the back country of Yosemite or ride along the beach, taking in majestic scenery while you ride.
Some state and national parks have stables that rent horses if you are unable to take your own, allowing you to either follow an experienced guide or strike out alone with your family or friends.
An important consideration in planning a trail riding vacation is that horses are not allowed on all of the trails in all of the parks and beaches. It is a good idea to do some research to see where horses are and are not allowed and whether special permits or inoculations are needed.
Fly Fishing and Horseback Riding
Julie Sackman coordinates vacations that combine fly fishing with horseback riding. Here is what she has to say about this unique combination:
From the peace and quiet of a simple stream to the breathtaking adventure of a wild river, the draw of fly-fishing is its simplicity, technical grace and ultimate adrenaline rush. It is called the quiet sport that, by design, brings you into nature. Horsemanship, the philosophy of working with horses through communication, timing, and feel, inspires many simply based on the natural beauty of the horse and the thrill of riding on their back.
Horsemanship and fly-fishing are so seemingly different and yet so very much alike. Both are detailed, yet vast, simple yet complicated. The key to each is timing, feel communication, and technique. Success in each is defined individually.
Bring them together and the horse can transport you to that perfect spot, where few people travel and tranquility dominates. Experience both and see the magic in each. Challenge yourself to see if you have the ability to think differently and be inspired by nature.
Three Bars Guest and Cattle Ranch
Three Bars Guest and Cattle Ranch invites you to experience the ultimate horseback riding vacation in the Canadian Rocky Mountains of British Columbia, Canada. Three Bars Dude Ranch offers the most diverse activities program available. Including a complete range of horseback riding programs, hiking, river rafting, mountain bikes, fly fishing, tennis, heated pool, hot tub, and fitness facility. Enjoy your vacation experience with true western hospitality, Three Bars Ranch style. If this is your first Dude Ranch vacation, you will surely be impressed. Horseback riders, or non-riders have the trip of a lifetime. Singles, families and couples are all welcome.
No previous experience, no problem we have Dude Ranchers Association certified wranglers to give you a helping hand. All of the activities at the ranch are designed to include all levels of experience. Kids programs, fly fishing, 4x4 UTV tours, biking, hiking, wild life viewing, rafting and golf are some of the activities offered at the ranch. (250) 426-5230 or www.threebarsranch.com
Zapata Ranch
The guest services arm of Zapata ranch offers an extensive program where guests can get an indepth and educational experience learning about ranching, horsemanship, and conservation practices, while also enjoying fine lodging and meals. Guests typically come to spend their days horseback; moving/working cattle, working on cattle handling and riding skills, and riding out to enjoy scenery. Our Guests can also be integrated into the daily ranch work for "hands on" learning about ranch life and management. This will include work that needs to be done on the ground and horseback. Guests also come for hiking, photography, bird and other wildlife watching, family reunions, and corporate retreats. www.zranch.org or (888) 5-ZAPATA (927282).
Cowgirl Up & Fly
From the quiet of a simple stream to the adventure of a wild river, the draw of fly-fishing is its simplicity, technical grace and ultimate adrenaline rush. Horsemanship, the philosophy of working with horses through communication, timing, and feel, inspires many simply based on the natural beauty of the horse and the thrill of riding on their back. Horsemanship and fly-fishing seem so different and yet, they are so much alike. The key to each is timing, feel communication, and technique. Success in each is defined individually. Cowgirl Up & Fly brings them together for you in a weekend get-away. Our Women’s Ride & Fly program is geared for the beginner fishermen and the seasoned trail rider. Small groups make this a relaxing and inspiring weekend. Bring your horse and yourself and we’ll take care of the rest.
530-409-5982 or www.acowgirlspromise.com
Jack Rabbit Ranch
Jack Rabbit Ranch is a five star 16 acre ranch located in Big Bear, CA in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Jack Rabbit Ranch Big Bear is located just 15 minutes east of Snow Summit, Bear Mountain resorts. Big Bear Lake downtown and the restaurants. Big Bear Lake has a local airport that accommodates all prop planes which is only 10 minutes from the ranch and concierge service is available.
Jack Rabbit Ranch Big Bear is perfect for large family gatherings, weddings, equestrian stays with your horses, corporate events, seminars, and more!
Jack Rabbit Ranch Big Bear activities include; horseback riding, hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, mountain biking snow shoeing, snowboarding, snow skiing, and even Western story telling upon request! In addition to this we can also offer you a ski boat and pontoon boat on the lake in the Summer as well as ATV's. www.jackrabbitranchandresort.com Randy Kaul (714) 472-3187
Historic Pines Ranch
Take a step back in time and experience the"Cowboy Way of Life" Wonderful Family Vacation Packages, Adventurous Adult Programs and Special Weeks for Cowgirls Only! Team Penning, Guest Rodeos, Mountain Trail Riding, Children's Activities, Treasure Hunting and So Much More! We have over 2 million acres of wilderness area right in our backyard!
The Historic Pines Ranch Offers Fun Filled, All-inclusive Western Dude Ranch Adventure Packages! Check out the many vacation options we offer simply by clicking on the package you want! 1-800-446-9462 or www.historicpines.com
Rose Ranch Resort
Rose Ranch Resort is located at the north end of Marysvale, Utah just off Highway 89 at the mouth of Beaver Canyon. With Beaver Creek running through the resort year round, lush green pastures, and hay fields you can experience a stay on the ranch when you lodge in one of our newly built cabins.
ATV Paradise! The Paiute trail actually runs through the Rose Ranch Resort. No crossing streets or driving along highways necessary to access the trail.
So come stay with us in one of our newly built cabins or just stop over for a scenic tour on horseback and enjoy a taste of the real ranch life. 1-866-423-1586 or www.roseranchresort.com
Rancho De La Osa
At Rancho De La Osa, just 65 miles from Tucson, daytime activities include horseback trail rides, guided hikes, nature walks, mountain biking and bird watching. And, after spending time in the saddle and exploring on foot, you can relax in the hot tub, cool down in the pool or have a massage before enjoying a pre dinner drink in the cantina.
Dining is focused around quality food and wine. Southwestern cuisine, encompassing a blend of Spanish, Mexican, Native American and Southwestern United States ingredients, is served either in our romantic and historic hacienda dining room, secluded outdoor courtyard or under the stars at a cookout. 1-800-872-6240 or www.ranchodelaosa.com
Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch
Located in Winston, New Mexico, we are a small, family run ranch. Our objective is to provide a limited number of guests with the time and the place to slow down from the fast pace of modern life, and to share in our experience in one of the last remaining strongholds of our western heritage.
Relax after a ride or a hike and enjoy a good book from our library in one of our many swings. Savor our ranch-style cooking either in the dining hall, or at outdoor barbeques. Evenings are spent enjoying s mores around the campfire, line dancing, sing-alongs, watching western movies or playing family-style games.
575-772-5157 or www.geronimoranch.com
Xanadu Ranch GetAway
Hybrid B&B and Guest Ranch / Horse Motel in Sonoita, AZ. A Vacation place for you and your Horse or Just yourself.
We are in the heart of Wine country of Arizona. Great weather Year Around for horse back riding, hiking, bird watching and many other outside activities. Not only do we have Great Wineries for tasting of some the finest wines in Arizona but we have some very fine Restaurants, too!
So whether you are Really Hot Or Really cold Getting Away to a place that will uplift you and allow you to recharge is a goodness. 520-455-0050 or www.xanaduranchgetaway.com
Tod Mountain Ranch
You are invited to join us at our guest ranch in the foothills of Tod Mountain, BC, to experience the western vacation of your dreams. We specialise in adult oriented horse riding vacations that bring together people from all over the globe who share a love of horses and adventure in the great outdoors.
What could be better than a day spent in the saddle exploring old logging and cattle trails and breathing in that fresh mountain air, followed by a cool drink out on the deck watching the sun set. Enjoy a delicious home cooked meal, share a drink and stories with new found friends.
Whether you’re travelling alone, with your partner or a group of friends, come spend your vacation with us and dare to live the Cowboy dream. We know you’ll have the time of your life! 250-578-8869 or www.todmountainranch.com
The Point Reyes Country Inn
One distinct feature of the Point Reyes Country Inn is that it combines the comfort of a classic bed and breakfast inn with facilities for stabling of horses. For both equestrians and non-riders alike, this charming inn offers peace & quiet, privacy & relaxation.
The Point Reyes Country Inn is within a short distance to the Point Reyes National Seashore. Embracing the beauty and natural wonders of Northern California with access to hundreds of miles of hiking and horse trails, remote ocean beaches, and many varied species of wildlife, the Inn is your place of peace in one of the world's great destinations. (415) 663-9696,
www.ptreyescountryinn.com
Rancho Las Cascadas
Nestled between gently sloping mountains and overlooking stunning natural waterfalls, RANCHO LAS CASCADAS is located only 90mins from Mexico City's international airport. If you love horses and free, open riding you will fall in love with this idyllic location and experience. The freedom of the riding here is second to none and will leave you wanting more every time. Once you return from a day in the saddle you can pamper yourself by having a massage or enjoying the hot tub in this wonderful setting. Let us wine and dine you with a fusion of local mexican and international cuisine. www.ranchomex.com, 310-666-6721
Ricochet Ridge Ranch
Canter along deserted ocean beaches, ride the bluffs while the Pacific crashes against rocks far below, and meander on mossy trails through the magnificent Redwood forest on this distinctive vacation on Northern California's rugged Mendocino Coast. This is an area of great beauty, rich in wildlife, where time flows at it's own pace; the ghosts of Russian, Spanish and English adventurers tenaciously cling to this isolated part of the world. Lari Shea, winner of dozens of endurance events, including the prestigious Tevis Cup 100 Mile Endurance race, breeds Akhal-Teke, Russian Orlov crosses, and Arabians, many of whom have excelled in dressage and jumping, as well as on competitive trails. Her Appy and Quarter horses round out the stable of wonderfully well-trained horses, for both English and Western style enthusiasts. You won't believe the quality of the horses! 888-873-5777 or www.horse-vacation.com
Sun Pass Ranch
Sun Pass Ranch Bed, Breakfast,and Horse Hotel is located 23 miles from the rim of Crater Lake National Park. Just a few steps away from the lodge is Wood River, one of the world's finest fly fishing streams (one mile of which runs right thru our property). A few more steps away are hiking, biking, and horseback trails through thousands of acres of Forest Service land. Winters are glorious for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Anytime of year enjoy the best birding in the nation....the nearby Klamath Wildlife Refuges are listed by Sunset Magazine as the #1 birding destinations in the West. For your comfort and pleasure, we sleep up to 10 guests in our completely modernized country-style lodge. Rustic but not cut off from the world, we have wireless internet access! We have stalls for up to 22 horses! And saving the best for last, we are gourmet cooks! Call for your reservation TODAY! 541-381-2882 or www.sunpassranch.com
K El Bar Guest Ranch
We want to welcome you to the K El Bar Guest Ranch, a desert oasis where warm hospitality has been a tradition since 1926. We offer the authentic dude ranch experience with adobe buildings, towering trees, and countless hours in the saddle. Charming and comfortable rooms, well-trained horses, and the unmatched beauty of the Sonoran Desert await you.
Our horses are well trainerd and cater to all leverls of horseback riding experience. Our professional wranglers will guide you and make you feel safe. A day you will always remember.
1-800-684-7583 or www.kayelbar.com
Horse Camps for Kids
Nothing makes fond childhood memories like going to horse camp during the summer. Kids’ camps are common and popular, offering child-safe horses for kids to take lessons on and ride. Horseback activities range in difficulty for kids of all experience levels, teaching basic English or western riding skills, jumping, dressage, gymkhana and vaulting. Kids also participate in play day activities like egg and spoon races.
Kids’ horse camps vary in the experience they offer, from teaching the kids to take care of the horses and do all the work required to take care of them, or more luxurious camps where the child does not have to lift a finger. No matter the type, there are usually plenty of other activities to participate when the child is not with the horses—crafts, swimming, hiking and learning new skills like cooking are all very typical.
Because of the popularity of these camps, it is advisable to make reservations as early as possible.
Rawhide Ranch
A Southern California tradition since 1963. Overnight weekly sessions, ages 7-15. June 21-August 22, 2009. Features daily western riding lessons, animal & horse science classes, animal care time, vaulting lessons (gymnastics on horseback). To round out the day there are plenty of extra activities to choose from - archery/riflery, roping lessons, drama, pool/waterslide, learning to harness/drive pony carts and so much more. Ideal for beginning/intermediate riders. ACA & CHA accredited. Member of Western Association of Independent Camps. 760/758-0083 or www.rawhideranch.com
Peppercorn Ranch
English riding lessons with horse care instruction and practice. Ages 7-14. Limited to 8 campers with two instructors. Weekly sessions, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Mon. - Fri., June 15th through August 14th. Open to beginning riders (have never ridden) through jumping small courses. $260 per week (10% discount for multiple weeks or siblings. Register online or call for an application. Lessons available all year: Adults, children, beginner, advanced. Horses available for lease! Located in beautiful Upper Ojai, 19 miles or 25 minutes from the Ventura County Gov. Center. www.peppercornranch.com or (805) 217 1549
Cross Creek
Cross Creek is owned and operated by Cris Chastain. Cross Creek tailors its training programs to fit every horse, rider, and budget. "The memories are forever. Going to horse camp with Miss Cris and the variety horses, is something that my ten-year-old still talks about. The experience helped create a confident, courageous girl from a shy one. Cris knew just how much to encourage, just how much to listen and caring about her horses and riders comes just comes naturally. My daughter Hannah made great friends and learned so much about being responsible at this hands-on camp. It is an experience that makes an impression for the early rider."
(818) 261-6866, www.angelfire.com/ca2/CrossCreek.
Work Family Ranch
Bring your own horse or use one of ours. Learn horsemanship skills while making new friends, trail riding, gymkhana fun, working cattle and listening to horse riding experts. Year round camps are offered for young people ages 8 years and up. Your children will love our trustworthy horses, caring instructors, and healthy home cooked meals.
Learn horsemanship skills while making new friends. The instructor, Kelly Work, is an accomplished horsewomen and mother of three rodeo children who love to rope and ride on the ranch. Our horses love kids and are proven mounts. Whatever your riding level, we try to help you accomplish your goals in a safe and fun environment. 805-467-3362, www.workranch.com
Darcy Edwards Trianing Center
Darcy Edwards trianing center, located at the El Capitan Equestrian Center offers summer camps throughout the summer. Each 5 day session runs Monday through Friday from 9am to 2pm. Campers must be 6 years old to attend. Campers will experience all levels of equestrian training, including: Riding Techniques, Basic Care & Grooming, Horse Crafts & Games, Saddle & Tack Care, Ranch Maintenance, Shoeing & Hoof Care. 858-335-7105, www.darcyedwards.com
J Training
J Training, in Yorba Linda, is offering Horse Camp this summer. Horse Camp is great for all experience levels of horse lovers. Campers will learn all aspects of horses from daily riding to horse care and all that’s in between. Campers will also complete daily horse crafts and learn pertinent horse knowledge all while having fun with other children who love horses. Monday thru Thursdays 8:30am to 12:30pm. 714-271-4968 or JTrainingYL@yahoo.com
Project Safari
Exotic animal and equestrian camp. Day camp Chino hills Sleep-away Camp located outside of Temecula. Campers ( Coed 6-16) will ride horses and learn hands on about exotic animals including zebras, emu, bison, llamas, ostrich, alpaca, donkeys, giant turtles and more. Also featured are horsemanship, buggy driving, roping, animal tracking, evening camp fires and other outdoor activities. Science ecology and wildlife programs are also available. We have Day, Weekend, Short and Long weeks are throughout the summer. Rental facilities available for private day and weekend events throughout the year. (714)544-4643 • (714) 580-2209
www.project-safari.com
Dana Smith Show Team
Our Camps are a wonderful way to experience and really get your initiation into the stable. You will learn so much information and become very comfortable with yourself as a equestrian.
Come spend 4 days, 4 hours per day at our fun, enjoyable Riding Camp! Lots of hands on, riding each day and much more. A wonderful way to truly learn about the ranch, their rules, arena etiquette and some good ol’ horsemanship.
949-493-3657 or www.danasmithshowteam.com
Rockin L & D Ranch
Rockin L & D Ranch camps are held at the beautiful Walnut Grove Equestrian Park in San Marcos. All aspects of horsemanship and sportsmanship are taught in a fun, safe, friendly environment. Learn to ride, rope, mounted drill team, gymkhana patterns, stationary vaulting horse, equine animal science, create horse crafts and more. Water activities at lunch time. All campers participate in a horse demonstration show. 760-741-1179 or rockinldranch.com
Horseman For Christ Camp
The 11th Annual Greg & Whitney Welch Memeorial Bible & Cutting Horse Camp is coming this summer! We can't believe it's been ten years since our camp format started. The 11th Annual Camp is scheduled for June 8-11, 2009 at Silverado on the Brazos, Weatherford, Texas.
Campers will have the opportunity to interact with some of the best Christian cutting horse trainers our industry has to offer. Cutting sessions are scheduled each day, along with an afternoon Bible study, recreation, fellowship and great meals! Campers often comment about the one-on-one instruction they receive fromEnd of the Day trainers, and the spiritual uplift they often receive.
817-341-7771 or www.horsemenforchrist.com
Leona Valley Riding Center
Come see the country like our forefathers did "On the back of a Horse” at Leona Valley Riding Center. See some of the most beautiful country in the world. Weather riding 25, 50,or 100 miles or even multi-days. It's the perfect way to combine horsemanship and nature. Every level of riding is available. 3 day a week day camp 4 hrs a day or 5 days and nights summer riding camps are available. Hroseback advertures include long scenic trail rides, Weekend bunkhouse adventure, Girls riding camp, ranch parties, one night camp and little cowboys and girls birthday pony parties.
661 270-1135 or www.leonavalleyridingcenter.com.
Other Horse Vacation Ideas
Horse vacations can take on a variety of forms. Riders might plan vacations around horse shows or other events they want to see or participate in. Take your horse to a week-long clinic or intensive private training session with a coach you admire, or leave old Bubba at home while you wing off to an exotic location to watch a world-class competition.
The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is a popular destination for horse lovers, and the training sessions are often as entertaining and educational—for some people, more so—than the actual shows the school puts on.
For many horse lovers, it can be hard to thinking of not being around horses, even for a week. With a horse vacation, you get the best of both worlds: a fun and relaxing time away from work while enjoying your favorite companion.
