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Horseback Riding Camps

Experience our exclusive horseback riding camps, at our beautiful 250-acre farm in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Which Camp Is Right For Your Horse-Crazy Kid?

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English Camp

Our English Summer Camp offers young horse enthusiasts a blend of riding excitement and comprehensive horse knowledge.

Focusing on jumping and dressage (matchig the appropiate level of the camper), campers also explore horse behavior, breeds, and care essentials like nutrition and grooming. Campers will learn stable management, haltering, leading, and horse anatomy. Hands-on grooming, understanding tack and equipment, and step-by-step tacking guide are included. 

Riding skills cover basic jumping and dressage. Beyond riding, the camp offers arts and crafts, and refreshing lake time.

Pony Club Curriculum: Campers will work towards earning Pony Club badges and certifications, adding extra value to their summer camp experience.

This camp promises a summer of learning, growth, and fun for young equestrian lovers!

Dates:

June 23. - 27. 2025
July 14. - 18. 2025
August 11. - 15. 2025



Western Camp

Join our Western Summer Camp for an immersive equestrian experience!

This camp is more than just barrel racing and pole bending. It's a journey into horse care, understanding, and riding skills. Campers will learn horse behavior and senses, explore different breeds, and engage in basic horse management including nutrition and care. 

They'll gain skills in stable management, haltering, leading, and understanding horse anatomy. Hands-on grooming and tack lessons are included, along with fundamentals of barrel racing and pole bending, culminating in a authentic competition on the last day of camp. 

The camp also offers arts, crafts, and relaxing lake time. It's a perfect blend of education, skill-building, and fun for young riders! 

Dates: 
 June 16. - 20. 2025
 July 7. - 11. 2025
 August 4. - 8. 2025



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Overnight Camp

Our Overnight Equestrian Camp offers a unique "own horse" experience for young riders. 

Campers, paired with a partner, take full care of a horse for a week, deepening their connection and skills. 

Stable management, groundwork techniques, grooming, horse anatomy, and tack education are all taught during Overnight Camp. 

Interactive sessions on horse behavior enhance understanding and communication. 

This camp also features bonfire nights, starlit night walks, and lake time for relaxation and fun. 

Overnight Camp provides an in-depth, hands-on horse ownership experience, ensuring a memorable week of learning and growth in the equestrian world.

Dates: 

 July 21 - 25

Mounted Games

Mounted Games Summer Camp at Double C Ranch!

 Get ready for an action-packed week of fun, teamwork, and riding at our Mounted Games Summer Camp! 

Whether your child is just starting out or more andvanced, this camp is designed to improve their balance, control, and confidence, all while having an unforgettable time with new friends. 

 What Are Mounted Games? Mounted Games are a thrilling blend of agility and precision, where riders and their ponies race against the clock in fun and challenging activities. From relay races to bending poles and flag games, your child will develop essential riding skills while competing in friendly, team-based challenges. 

 Camp Highlights: Daily Riding & Mounted Games Practice: Campers will learn and master various mounted games designed to improve their coordination and riding ability. 

Team Spirit & Fun Competitions: With exciting relay races, obstacle courses, and more, campers will learn the importance of teamwork while cheering on their friends.

Horsemanship & Care: In addition to riding, campers will participate in unmounted lessons on horse care, grooming, and tack, reinforcing their knowledge of horsemanship. 

Pony Club Curriculum: Campers will work towards earning Pony Club badges and certifications, adding extra value to their summer camp experience. 

Why Choose Mounted Games? Mounted Games are not only a great way for riders to improve their skills, but they also promote confidence, quick thinking, and physical coordination. Plus, the games are loads of fun—campers will leave with lasting memories and new riding techniques! 
 Who Should Attend? Our Mounted Games Summer Camp is open to riders of all levels, ages [ 7-18]. 

Whether your child is new to horses or looking to take their riding skills to the next level, this camp offers something for everyone.

Dates:

June 9. -13. 2025
June 30. - July 4. 2025
July 28. - August 1. 2025



kid-on-horse

Which Camp Is Right For Your Horse-Crazy Kid?

girl-with-horse-camp
girl-with-horse-camp

English Camp

Our English Summer Camp offers young horse enthusiasts a blend of riding excitement and comprehensive horse knowledge.

Focusing on jumping and dressage (matchig the appropiate level of the camper), campers also explore horse behavior, breeds, and care essentials like nutrition and grooming.

Campers will learn stable management, haltering, leading, and horse anatomy. Hands-on grooming, understanding tack and equipment, and step-by-step tacking guide are included. Riding skills cover basic jumping and dressage. Beyond riding, the camp offers arts and crafts, and refreshing lake time.

 Pony Club Curriculum: Campers will work towards earning Pony Club badges and certifications, adding extra value to their summer camp experience.

 This camp promises a summer of learning, growth, and fun for young equestrian lovers!

 Dates:
 June 23. - 27. 2025
 July 14. - 18. 2025
 August 11. - 15. 2025
practicing-roping

Western Camp

Join our Western Summer Camp for an immersive equestrian experience!

 This camp is more than just barrel racing and pole bending. 

 It's a journey into horse care, understanding, and riding skills. Campers will learn horse behavior and senses, explore different breeds, and engage in basic horse management including nutrition and care. They'll gain skills in stable management, haltering, leading, and understanding horse anatomy. 

Hands-on grooming and tack lessons are included, along with fundamentals of barrel racing and pole bending, culminating in a authentic competition on the last day of camp. 

 The camp also offers arts, crafts, and relaxing lake time.

 It's a perfect blend of education, skill-building, and fun for young riders! 

Dates: 

 June 16. - 20. 2025
 July 7. - 11. 2025
 August 4. - 8. 2025
IMG_7671

Overnight Camp

Our Overnight Equestrian Camp offers a unique "own horse" experience for young riders. 

Campers, paired with a partner, take full care of their assigned horse for a week, deepening their connection and skills. Stable management, groundwork techniques, grooming, horse anatomy, and tack education are all taught during Overnight Camp. 

Interactive sessions on horse behavior enhance understanding and communication. 

Pony Club Curriculum: Campers will work towards earning Pony Club badges and certifications, adding extra value to their summer camp experience.

This camp also features bonfire nights, starlit night walks, movie nights outdoors and lake time for relaxation and fun. 

Overnight Camp provides an in-depth, hands-on horse ownership experience, ensuring a memorable week of learning and growth in the equestrian world. 

 Dates: 
 July 21 - 25
practicing-roping

Mounted Games Camp

Pony Club Mounted Games Summer Camp at Double C Ranch!

Get ready for an action-packed week of fun, teamwork, and riding at our Mounted Games Summer Camp! 

 Whether your child is just starting out or more andvanced, this camp is designed to improve their balance, control, and confidence, all while having an unforgettable time with new friends. 

 What Are Mounted Games? 

Mounted Games are a thrilling blend of agility and precision, where riders and their ponies race against the clock in fun and challenging activities. From relay races to bending poles and flag games, your child will develop essential riding skills while competing in friendly, team-based challenges. 

 Camp Highlights: Daily Riding & Mounted Games Practice: 
Campers will learn and master various mounted games designed to improve their coordination and riding ability. Team Spirit & Fun Competitions: With exciting relay races, obstacle courses, and more, campers will learn the importance of teamwork while cheering on their friends.

Horsemanship & Care: In addition to riding, campers will participate in unmounted lessons on horse care, grooming, and tack, reinforcing their knowledge of horsemanship. 

Pony Club Curriculum: Campers will work towards earning Pony Club badges and certifications, adding extra value to their summer camp experience. 

Why Choose Mounted Games? Mounted Games are not only a great way for riders to improve their skills, but they also promote confidence, quick thinking, and physical coordination. Plus, the games are loads of fun—campers will leave with lasting memories and new riding techniques! 

Whether your child is new to horses or looking to take their riding skills to the next level, this camp offers something for everyone.

Dates: 

 June 9. -13. 2025
 June 30. - July 4. 2025
 July 28. - August 1. 2025

Why Choose Double C Ranch?

Exploring the Equestrian World at Double C Ranch, Charlottesville, Va.

At Double C Ranch in Charlottesville, Va., equestrian enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to dive into a world of diverse horseback riding disciplines under the expert guidance of Christine, a certified riding instructor with a rich background in the field. Originally from Germany, Christine brings a wealth of experience to her riding school, offering a blend of European finesse and American practicality in her teaching methods.

Extensive Experience: Christine’s journey in the equestrian world is impressive. With roots in a large barn in Schweinfurt/Bavaria, she has taught a spectrum of students, from young children to adults. Her experience spans across various disciplines including jumping, dressage, eventing, cutting, reining, and more, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.

Diversity in Disciplines: Whether you're interested in the precision of dressage, the thrill of jumping, or the adventure of trail rides, Double C Ranch offers it all. The motto, "Where Our Goal Is To Provide Students With A Solid Foundation And A Variety Of Disciplines To Find Their Passion," speaks to the commitment to help each rider discover their equestrian niche.

The German Touch: Bringing her German heritage and training to the forefront, Christine infuses her lessons with the discipline and style characteristic of German equestrian training. This approach not only enhances technical skills but also instills a deeper understanding and respect for the sport.

Passion for Teaching and Training: Christine's passion for teaching, especially children, and training young horses, is a cornerstone of her approach. This passion is infectious and inspires students to develop a deep love and respect for horses and the sport.

Quality Horses: The ranch boasts an impressive collection of horses, including German Warmbloods and American Quarter Horses, providing students with the opportunity to ride and learn from a variety of horse breeds. Each breed offers different learning experiences, from the elegance of Warmbloods to the agility of Quarter Horses.

Personalized Learning Experience: With a focus on individual growth and development, students at Double C Ranch receive personalized attention, ensuring that each rider progresses at their own pace while building confidence and skills.

Community and Environment: The ranch fosters a warm, welcoming community where students can share their experiences and grow together. The picturesque setting in Charlottesville, VA, adds to the charm, making every ride a memorable experience.

In conclusion, Double C Ranch is not just a riding school; it's a place where passion for horses and riding is cultivated. Christine’s extensive background, combined with a variety of disciplines and a personalized approach to teaching, makes Double C Ranch an ideal choice for anyone looking to embark on or continue their equestrian journey.

Reviews

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What ages are allowed to attend the camp?

Campers should be ages 7 to 17.

Are riding helmets provided?

We only have a limited amount of helmets to borrow. If you do not already own a riding helmet, you can purchase one at :

Dover Saddlery, 195 Seminole Ct, Charlottesville, VA 22901 Phone: (434) 964-1301 Website: https://www.doversaddlery.com

Tractor Supply, 921 River Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22901 Phone: (434) 984-2190 Website: https://www.tractorsupply.com

Please go to the shop for a custom helmet fitting, as it is crucial that your helmet fits you well.

Another option would be to use a bike helmet. However, it is recommended to use a riding helmet

Do you have to be an experienced rider to participate in the Camps?

No, you actually do not need to have any riding experience at all! Our horses are well trained and well suited for beginner riders.

What hours do the camps run each day?

Monday - Friday 9am - 3pm

Will participants be provided with horses for the event? Do they need to bring any riding gear or equipment?

Horses and tack are included.

Will there be any food or snacks provided, or should participants bring their own?

Please bring your own food and snacks. Exception is the Overnight Camp. Please check the Overnight Camp for more information. There is also a soda machine at the barn.

What happens in case of inclement weather? Is there a rain date or a cancellation policy?

We will move to the hay loft for crafty activities and/or games.

Is there parking available at the Camp location?

Yes, there is plenty of parking.

Is there a recommended dress code for the event, especially for horse riding?

Riders should wear long pants, a close-fitting shirt, and boots.

If boots are not available, riders must wear close-toed, hard soled shoes with heels of at least 1/4 inch. Best practise is to dress in layers! Campers will also need a swim suite for the lake time :).

What is the Camp's cancellation policy, in case someone can't attend?

We will make sure that s/he can participate in another camp. There are no refunds, but we can reschedule!

Is there a contact person or email/phone number for inquiries or additional information?

Are you allowed to bring your own horse?

Yes, please reach out to Christine at 434-278-7051 for further information.

Is there a limit on how many people can attend?

Yes, the Camp will be limited to 10 campers.

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