Archery
All campers | At least once/week + free choice activity times
Summer camp activities
Exciting, enriching, and totally offline activities led by qualified staff who love kids and a good adventure.
Activities are about so much more than filling a schedule.
It’s really about the ear-to-ear smile after riding a horse. It’s about the bravery that emerges halfway up the ropes course and the compassion that grows learning to care for animals. It’s about high-fives that mean everyone belongs and the wonder that goes up with campfire sparks and skit laughter into the evening sky.
Camp activities refined by experience
Unplugged and relational
Ranch activities are offline and designed for in-real-life healthy connections between campers and camp staff.
Safety first
Behind the carefree joy of participating in activities are qualified staff and rigorous safety protocols. Our activities meet or exceed Ontario Camp Association safety standards.
Qualified instructors
Each activity area is overseen by staff with certifications, experience, and a lively commitment to keeping campers safe while they grow in character and have so much fun.
Meaningful for the heart
Christian faith is part of life at camp, and we create a welcoming, no-pressure environment for campers from all backgrounds. We have specific times for campers to learn about and explore Christian faith, such as campfire and devotions. Faith is also reflected more informally through relationships, conversations, and everyday life at camp.
The right challenge is the most fun
Camp activities should challenge your child to grow but never push them too far. We create flexible activity experiences at just the right level for growth and big smiles.
Activities
Archery tag
Overnight and Extreme Day Campers | At least once/week + free choice activity times
Crafts
All campers | Varies by camp program
Devotions
All campers | Daily
Campfires
Overnight campers | Daily [callout/star (if possible)] Biggest laughs here!
Climbing tower
All campers | At least once/week
Recreational Horseback Riding
Discovery & Extreme Camps | 3 times per week
Horseback riding (instructional)
Horse Lovers Camp (only) | 8 hours per week at the barn including riding and horse care activities
High ropes course
Overnight and Extreme Day Campers | At least once/week + free choice activity times [callout/star (if possible)] Thrill-seekers welcome!
Horseback riding program
During instructional horseback riding sessions, your child will be placed in a “star level” class that matches their ability and experience.
There’s a place for everyone, from first-time rider to experienced equestrian.
FAQ
How do I know which star level my child is at?
If your child is new to horseback riding, they will start in 1st Star. If they have passed a star level at the Ranch in a previous year or session, they will move on to the next level after the one they passed. If your child has horseback riding experience outside of camp, our horseback riding instructor will assess their knowledge and experience and place them in the right class.
Is horseback riding ever cancelled?
We take our promises to campers regarding the amount of riding time they get very seriously. We also take safety and animal welfare very seriously. While we work hard to make riding possible almost all the time, extreme weather, including heat waves, can limit riding time in some cases.
If my child has been taking horseback riding lessons throughout the year, can they progress to a level they didn’t pass yet at camp?
Yes! They can let our riding instructors know when they arrive at camp. Our instructors will assess their skills and place them in the class that best matches their current ability.
Do campers usually progress one star level per session of camp?
No, not necessarily. The four star levels represent a wide range of riding skills from total beginner to advanced equestrian skills.
Many campers pass 1st Star in one or two sessions. Some campers may progress through 2nd Star from riding at camp alone, however, it often takes at least two weeks to pass 2nd Star.
Mastering the upper star skills takes extensive practice, beyond what is usually achievable in one week per year of lessons.
While some campers are eager to move up the levels, our star system helps riders build skills safely and confidently. Instructors make sure each rider has opportunities to challenge themselves and continue growing, even when they remain at the same star level.
What qualifications do horseback riding instructors have?
Our horsemanship team brings extensive equestrian experience and a passion for helping campers grow in confidence and skill. Instructors, assistant instructors, and barn staff receive role-specific training and are supervised to ensure high standards of horse care, rider safety, and quality instruction.
What are your ratios of staff to campers while riding?
Staff-to-camper ratios vary based on the age and experience of the riders. We use small riding groups with staffing appropriate to each group’s needs and experience level
Do I need to send my child with their own helmet?
No, SEI/ASTM approved riding helmets are provided for all campers. If your child has their own riding helmet, they are welcome to bring it. Helmets that are not SEI/ASTM approved, including bicycle, ski, or skateboard helmets, are not permitted for riding.
What kind of footwear does my child need for horseback riding?
Because we use safety stirrups, a heel is not required. Suitable footwear includes hiking boots, sturdy running shoes, or riding boots. Please do not send canvas shoes, Crocs, or rubber boots for riding.
What if my child tries horseback riding and doesn’t like it?
Our instructors encourage and support campers who feel nervous or unsure about riding, but campers are not forced to ride. If your child decides not to participate, they can watch the lesson from the arena bleachers and may be able to switch activities if another option is available.
[OCA logo and Canadian Camping International logo?]
97% of parents reported their child had a fun, positive experience
