Instruction

All ages and ability levels are welcome in the Horseback Riding area at Camp Nicolet! Whether you’re just starting out, or if you’re honing your skills on smaller jumps, camp’s riding instructors are here to help you learn new skills & have a great time. Campers learn to walk, trot, canter, jump, and even basic dressage techniques – but the program is taken slowly and safely, and progresses at the discretion of individual participants.

Program Details

Three activity periods of Horseback Riding each week are included in camp tuition
Families may add an additional three hours per week of Horseback Riding on request, for a total of six hours per week
There is an additional cost for those choosing to Horseback Ride six times per week – please contact us for details
Campers may sign up for the Stable Management elective (no additional cost), if desiring participation in horse care and stable operations
Campers may sign up for Trail Rides (no additional cost) through the beautiful Nicolet National Forest – typically held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings
Campers are placed in a Horseback Riding activity period with other campers of similar ability level
Helmets, long pants, and boots with a heel are required for participation – we have a limited number available for camper use
Safety is emphasized in all aspects of the Horseback Riding program – campers learn best practices around the horses and stables

The Stables

Camp is home to 10 horses, all of which find a special place in the hearts of campers and Staff each summer. The Nicolet Equestrian Center, or informally “the Stables,” is staffed by a group of Riding Instructors, Riding Assistants, and the Director of Horseback Riding – who administers curriculum offered to campers and manages operations of the Riding area.

The Horse Show

One of Camp Nicolet’s oldest traditions (begun in the summer of 1945), the annual Horse Show gives campers and Staff an opportunity to proudly demonstrate newly acquired riding skills. Special ribbons are awarded to campers for their placement in a variety of “classes.” Riding campers and Staff are supported by the presence of the entire camp community and visiting alumni guests. Gymkhana games and Riding Cookouts are also offered each summer, at the Director of Horseback Riding’s discretion.