programs & places

EQUESTRIAN

Kippewa Equestrian Camp Horseback Riding: A Sport for Everyone to Enjoy

Kippewa offers a true equestrian specialty program with all the fun and traditions of sleepaway camp. Our Equestrian Program provides the level of instruction found in specialized riding camps, within a traditional summer camp program. From our Introductory Program for girls new to riding, to our Core Riding Program with daily sessions 6 days a week to our Intensive Program, campers with a passion for riding will find an option that matches their level of interest. In addition, Camp Kippewa offers 40+ arts, sports and adventure activities that complement the riding program perfectly.

Our program provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy non-competitive, top-notch Huntseat Equitation riding instruction with an emphasis on safety, fun and skill development following the standards of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF).

Our program welcomes first-time riders, beginners and advanced riders with individual attention tailored to your level. We teach in the Huntseat Equitation style of riding in our three rings. Girls start with equitation and, once mastered, explore other forms of English riding style such as dressage, jumpers and cross country.

All riders work with our highly qualified, dedicated instructors at their own pace in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Instructors are trained with CHA (Certified Horsemanship Association) standards and consistently demonstrate their commitment to meeting the varied needs of each individual rider.

 

Kippewa Stables

Kippewa Stables once belonged to the Woolworth Family and was part of their racehorse estate. Located on camp grounds, the picturesque, mahogany-lined stables are convenient for all campers to access. The facility includes 29 horse stalls, grooming areas, two sand rings and one grass ring. A 1/2 mile trot track surrounds the lesson rings. Horses are specifically chosen for the program each summer based on the specific needs of our new and returning campers.

 

Equestrian Director

The Camp Kippewa equestrian program was implemented by Class A Champion Jim Saindon, who remains a close part of the Kippewa family as Equestrian Consultant. Mary Paige Kowalski continues to expand and elevate the program as Equestrian Director. Mary Paige has spent close to 20 years at camp as a camper and counselor. She has been at Kippewa since 2009. Growing up, Mary Paige rode on the South Carolina Progressive Show Jumpers Circuit. In college, she was team president of the Clemson University Equestrian team. At Clemson, she studied Equine Business, and met her husband, Yuri, who grew up in Maine. Mary Paige now lives with Yuri and her daughter, Elizabeth, only 10 miles from Kippewa!