Bringing Your Pony to Camp: What to Bring & What to Expect

Bringing your own pony to camp is a great way to build a stronger partnership, develop your skills, learn alongside other riders and of course, have fun. Some of my favorite core memories were from horse camps. I still remember the feeling of jumping my personal best in tip n out, putting on a play with my friends (I can still remember the play was about sheep somehow) and figuring out clues from an amazing race. Taking care of my pony was always a highlight, late night checks of the yard, hand walks and lots and lots of refilling water buckets and hay nets. All that time attending camps as a kid has definitely helped when it comes to planning our camps each holidays (Plus the almost 10 years of running camps here at Littleriver!) If you ask any of our repeat campers I'm sure they'll also tell you we are always coming up with new, fun activities to keep everyone entertained and learning new things!

This guide is here to help you feel organized and confident so you can focus on having fun and getting the most out of your time at camp.

What to Bring for Your Pony

When you bring your pony to camp, you’ll need to bring almost everything they normally have at home. Think of it as packing up your pony’s usual routine and bringing it with you for the day. This includes their feed, plenty of hay, a hay net, a water bucket, grooming gear, muck-out tools, all riding gear, any covers they may need for the weather, and anything else your pony has daily such as supplements or medication.

Hay is especially important. Between sessions, ponies spend time resting in their yard or paddock, and having constant access to fibre helps them stay relaxed, keeps their tummy happy, and feel comfortable in a new environment. It’s always better to bring more hay than you think you’ll need.

You’re very welcome to leave your float onsite during camp. Many riders find it easiest to store feed, hay, and gear inside their float so everything stays tidy and easy to access. For overnight camps, some riders even choose to sleep in their float if it’s set up for it, which can be part of the fun of the full pony camp experience.

What Riders Should Bring

Riders just need their usual riding basics, plus anything that helps them stay comfortable for a full day at the yard. A well-fitting, safety-approved helmet and riding boots are essential, along with comfortable riding clothes suited to the weather (bring spares!). Bringing warm layers or a rain jacket is always a good idea, as well as sunscreen, food, snacks, and plenty of water. Camps are active and busy, so being comfortable and prepared makes the whole day more enjoyable.

What to Expect on Arrival

When you arrive, you’ll unload your pony and settle them into their yard or paddock, making sure they have access to hay and water. Most riders arrive the morning of camp, however you can contact us if you want to organise your pony coming the night before. This can give them more time to settle and might save you an extra early morning on the first day of camp. There’s no pressure to rush, starting the day calm and organized makes everything else flow better.

What a Camp Day Looks Like

Camp days are full, varied, and designed to be fun. You can expect a mix of riding sessions, groundwork, games, challenges, and plenty of learning both on and off your pony.

Most of our camps are themed which effect what activities we get up to! Sometimes we go off site to go kayaking or swimming (all optional activities) and we have regular meals throughout the day, plus lots of snacks!

You'll check on your pony when you aren't riding, making sure their hay and water are topped up and take them out to stretch their legs if their yarded for a while. A settled, relaxed and happy pony is the priority.

Final Thoughts

Bringing your pony to camp is a fun and rewarding way to ride more, learn more, and build a stronger partnership with your pony, all while spending time with other riders in a relaxed, supportive environment. If it's your first camp remember that we've all been there, and you'll have new friends and be having a blast in no time! If you’re ever unsure if camp is right for you just ask, we’re here to make camp enjoyable, stress-free, and memorable for both you and your pony 🐴