We offer riders of all abilities the quality of instruction and horses found at a riding academy within the traditional camp setting found at Runoia. 

Lessons at Runoia are organized by ability level to maximize learning and maintain safety. Whether your daughter is a beginner, has had a few lessons, or has been riding for years, she will find the riding program welcoming and challenging.

Runoia is unique in that we maintain our own herd of horses, complemented by a few private leases each summer. Campers enjoy seeing their favorite horse summer after summer. Our horses and ponies spend the off-season working in collegiate and interscholastic riding programs, returning to Runoia each summer ready to teach our campers.

Campers new to riding begin by learning the basics of leading, mounting, and steering. Riders can pass levels and learn skills such as trotting, two point, cantering, and jumping. Our jumping program is progressive with riders starting to work on their jump position over a ground pole and increasing with mastery.

Each session, riders have the opportunity to represent their team in our rich with tradition Bees vs Elephants horse show. With classes from walk only for beginner to 2’6” jump course for our most advanced riders and everything in between, everyone who participates earns a ribbon.

Runoia also participates in shows with other camps, both hosting an invitational show at Runoia and attending shows at other camps. Shows provide riders an opportunity to showcase what they’ve learned as well as build confidence.

Packages of lessons are available. Contact our office for more details about Riding packages offered: office@runoia.com and read about our Riding Lesson Packages. 

FAQ

What style of riding is taught at Runoia?

At Runoia, we teach American Forward Seat Riding or in layman’s terms, hunt seat. Our focus is on equitation and horsemanship. Our program is ideal for riders of all levels.  

What is the instructor to student ratio at Runoia?

Our beginner to novice lessons have no more than four riders. Our more advanced lessons have no more than five riders. All lessons are taught by 2 of our riding instructors. We find this ratio allows us to focus on individual camper needs during the hour lesson, and allow for learning by observing and fun with friends. 

Will my daughter ride the same horse every lesson?

We usually have 13-14 camp horses each summer. Riders who sign up for multiple lessons may find they ride a 3-4 horses regularly. Often we find that riders “fit” with a certain horse and we’ll keep that match. 

Why Runoia instead of a “horse camp”?

Runoia allows for campers to ride daily, participate in horse shows, and learn horsemanship all while enjoying a traditional camp experience. Our staff are hired for not only their skills in activities, but also their desire to work with children. Your daughter will be able to hone her skills in many areas and make friends with girls who have different interests and backgrounds.

 
Who directs Camp Runoia’s Equestrian Programs?

Jen Dresdow, Assistant Director and Equestrian Director.

More info on basic riding terminology explained by the United States Equestrian Federation.