Summer Camp for Adult Equestrians
Week 5 (Level 3a/b Riders)
Level 3a/b riders— XC Jump intensive- focus on eventing and hunter pacing
Dive deep into XC Jumping and try a variety of obstacles in both hunter pace and eventing settings. Learn about setting yourself up for success to ride an XC course and more complicated jumps.
Overview
This camp focuses on advancing XC Jump to the next level. Riders will learn new skills both in and out of the saddle. Gain hands-on experience with advanced horsemanship and overall horse care skills.
Between lessons, riders will participate in educational sessions covering topics such as:
- Bits and tack
- Horse breeds
- General horse care and management
We are also planning special demonstrations from equine professionals such as a farrier, veterinarian, or equine dentist.
Schedule
📅 Thursday, August 13 – Sunday, August 16
🕙 Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sample Daily Itinerary
Each day is thoughtfully structured to balance riding, horsemanship, and education—while still allowing time to relax and enjoy the experience.
10:00 AM – Arrival & Check-In
Meet the group and review the plan for the day with your instructor.
10:30 AM – Horse Prep
Collect your horse, groom, and tack up.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Riding Lesson 1
Flatwork, skills development, or mounted exercises tailored to your level.
12:30 PM – Lunch & Educational Session
Enjoy lunch followed by a discussion or demo on topics such as tack, horse care, or riding theory.
1:30 PM – Horse Prep
Return to the barn to groom and tack up for the afternoon session.
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Riding Lesson 2 or Trail Ride
Afternoon ride may focus on skill-building or an instructional hack around the property.
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Wrap-Up & Horse Care
Untack, care for your horse, and regroup to review the day and preview what’s next.
Evenings
We’ll aim to gather as a group for dinner at a local restaurant. Plans will be flexible and based on group interest—decided together on Day 1.
Notes
- Some riding sessions may extend closer to 2 hours depending on the day’s focus.
- Certain days may include additional time for horsemanship, theory, or guest demonstrations from equine professionals (farrier, vet, etc.).
The Horses
Ride a diverse group of horses suited to your level, including:
- Forward, athletic thoroughbreds
- Steady, confidence-building draft types
Level Requirement
Level 3a/b Riders. Click here for a full description of our MRC Rider Levels.
This camp is ideal for riders looking to solidify their skills and prepare to move up from Level 3a to Level 3b.
Facility
Train at a premier equestrian facility in Pine Plains, NY, featuring:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas
- Cross-country jump field
- Miles of scenic trails
Located minutes from:
- Wethersfield Estate & Gardens
- Millbrook Horse Trials
What’s Included
- Horse(s) matched to your ability
- Instruction both mounted and unmounted
- 6 riding lessons
- Extensive horsemanship and educational sessions
- Daily lunch
- A supportive group of adult riders
Not Included
Accommodations
We will connect all riders in advance and provide a list of options for shared Airbnb housing to local B&B's and hotels.
Attire
- Casual riding attire
- Required: helmet, boots, gloves
Transportation
📍 Pine Plains
- ~98 miles north of Midtown Manhattan
- Accessible via Metro-North Railroad to Wassaic (20-minute drive to facility)
- Carpooling available through the MRC Facebook group and rider network
Join Summer Camp
Take your riding to the next level—gain confidence, improve technique, and immerse yourself in a supportive, horse-centered environment.