Camp Ondessonk Equestrian Programs include trail rides, overnight horseback riding trips, and horsemanship classes! Custom group and meal packages are available for all skill levels. Contact our Equestrian Department to learn more at 618-695-2489 x127 or stables@ondessonk.com.
Trail Rides
Half-Day Ride:
Ride for three hours as we head into the Shawnee National Forest, crossing creeks and following sandstone bluffs. Bring a lunch to enjoy along the trail or order pack lunches from our food services department. This is a favorite among our equestrian programs. Riders must be 12+ years old and under 225lbs.
All Day Ride: Plan for a full day in the saddle as we head out to explore the Shawnee National Forest! We’ll provide a packed lunch to enjoy at a scenic point along the trail. Recommended for riders with previous riding experience. Riders must be 12+ years old and under 225lbs. Minimum of four participants.
Overnight Trail Rides
Half-Day Overnight Ride: Start out in the afternoon and enjoy a picturesque ride to Durbin’s Barn, built in the 1930s. Once there you can set up your sleeping bag in the loft of the restored Durbin’s barn or out under the stars. We’ll cook dinner over the campfire and end the day with s’mores. In the morning we’ll cook breakfast over the fire, ready the horses, and pack up before we ride back to the stables. Riders must be 12+ years old and under 225lbs. Minimum of four participants.
All Day Overnight Ride: Ride out in the morning to experience the trails of the Shawnee National Forest. We’ll stop for a trail lunch along the way before riding on to our overnight spot at Durbin’s Barn. We will cook dinner and breakfast over the fire, enjoy a night under the stars, and head back in the morning. Previous riding experience is recommended. Riders must be 12+ years old and under 225lbs. Minimum of four participants.
Horsemanship Programs/Lessons
Horse Sense: This program allows participants of any age to learn all about horses. Groups learn about feeding, grooming, horse care, herd dynamics, groundwork lessons, the science of food and different nutrient requirements for horses, as well as basic first aid. Each Horse Sense Program can be tailored by our Equestrian Department to meet the experience level and interests of the group. This makes it the perfect option for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
Horsemanship 101: Learn all about horses with this program! We will have a horse sense class to learn about horse care and grooming, followed by a short arena lesson or trail ride. Must be 10+ years old and under 225lbs.
Private Riding Lesson or Trail Ride: Visit us and take a one-hour private lesson from a CHA-certified instructor. Riding lessons may be English or Western and can be customized to your individual needs.
Group Riding Lesson or Trail Ride: Have some friends or family you want to do a group private lesson with? Visit us and take a one-hour private lesson or trail ride from a CHA-certified instructor. Riding lessons may be English or Western and can be customized to your individual needs.
Choose Your Own Adventure
We would be happy to tailor an equestrian experience for your needs. Contact our Equestrian Department for information, pricing, and program options. For example, you may want to:
Join us for a horse slumber/birthday party. Bring your friends to learn about horses, groom them, take a lesson, or go for a ride. Hang out with a wrangler around the campfire as you cook dinner over the fire and make s’mores before heading to bed in the sleeping lofts of the barn. Perfect for scouts or a birthday party!
Meet the horses. Bring all ages, even the little ones, to meet the Ondessonk Herd. Take a pony ride, learn to groom, or paint a horse. Bring a group and make it a complete trip with a hayride and campfire!
Plan a visit to Camp! In addition to our horse programming, try our other program options like the zipline, ropes course, hikes, swimming area, archery, and more! With meal and lodging options, you will be set for a great time!
Questions? Contact the Ondessonk Stables at stables@ondessonk.com or 618-695-2489 x127.