SW
Camp Switch Willo

The Camp Handbook

Everything a family needs to know before the first day — reminders, what to pack, and answers to the questions we hear most.

Camper with horse Week One, 2026
Camper with a toy unicorn Barn Buddies
Camper leading a horse Ready to Ride
Reminders What to Pack FAQ
I.

Camp Reminders

  • Drop-OffCamp opens at 8:30AM. Please don't arrive earlier — the main area is closed to vehicle traffic until then.
  • Early CareAvailable only for campers enrolled in early care. Arrive no earlier than 8AM.
  • Pick-UpPlease be prompt at day's end. Need early pickup? Let staff know at the welcome table that morning. Running late? Call 512-695-5269 and leave a message if we don't answer.
  • After-CareFor campers enrolled in after-camp daycare, pickup is no later than 5PM.
  • DrivingPlease observe 15MPH on the main road and 5MPH inside the camp area.
  • Friday ShowFamilies are invited to the end-of-week horse show — campers demonstrate their progress and receive ribbons and certificates. Early checkout is available afterward.
  • PetsAs much as we love animals, please leave pets at home for everyone's safety.
  • Lost & FoundCheck before you leave Friday — that missing water bottle or hoodie may be waiting there.
II.

What to Pack

Required Gear

  • ASTM/SEI approved horseback riding helmet (no bicycle helmets)
  • Riding boots with a smooth sole and defined heel (no waffle soles or tall rubber boots)
  • Long pants for riding: jeans, breeches, or jodhpurs

Everyday Essentials

  • A refillable water bottle, carried all day
  • Shorts or cooler clothes for after-riding activities
  • Tennis shoes for non-riding games
  • Flip flops (optional, for water play)
  • Lunch and two snacks
  • Sunscreen, applied and packed for reapplication
  • Any necessary medication, clearly labeled

Summer-Only Items

  • Swimsuit and towel for water activities
  • $3–$5 for Kona Ice on Fridays, plus extra cash for snacks or drinks

Optional

  • Apples, carrots, or horse cookies for barn walks — always appreciated by our four-legged friends

Please Leave at Home

  • Phones and non-essential electronics
  • Tall rubber boots
  • Bicycle helmets
  • Toys or valuables you'd hate to lose

Need last-minute gear? We recommend the Austin location of Dover Saddlery for boots, helmets, and pants that meet camp safety standards.

Campers enjoying Camp Switch Willo

"She came home more confident every day."

"He hasn't stopped talking about the horse he rode!"

"This was her favorite camp of the summer."

III.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is camp tuition, and what ages do you accept?+

    Tuition is $575/week for Summer sessions and $475/week for Winter and Spring Break sessions. Standard hours are Monday 8:30AM–4PM and Tuesday–Friday 9AM–4PM. Extended care is available for early drop-off and late pickup, at $10/day for one option or $20/day for both. Camp is geared toward children ages 6–12 (with select sessions from 5½).

  • How many campers are in each group?+

    Riding groups are limited to 4 campers. Other camp activities may have groups of up to 8. Each group is led by an adult supervisor, typically with a senior and junior counselor.

  • May my camper be placed with a friend?+

    Campers are grouped by age and ability for the safety of all riders, so we can't guarantee placement with a specific friend.

  • What are check-in and check-out procedures?+

    Parents accompany campers to the welcome table near the parking lot each morning to sign in. Campers are guided to the Camp House to find their cubby. At day's end, parents sign out their camper, who is called individually from the outdoor activity lawn.

  • Can someone else pick up my camper?+

    Yes — just let us know at check-in so we can note it for staff.

  • Where do I buy a helmet or riding gear?+

    We recommend the Austin location of Dover Saddlery.

  • My camper was waitlisted — what happens now?+

    If a spot opens for your waitlisted week, we'll reach out by text and email according to your place on the list.

  • Are snacks and water provided?+

    Please send a water bottle, two snacks, and a lunch with your camper. See "What to Pack," above, for the full list.

  • What is your medication policy?+

    Place any medication in a labeled plastic bag and give it to camp staff Monday morning, with instructions regarding refrigeration if needed. Be sure your child picks up any remaining medication at the end of the week.

  • My child has a mild disability or is on the spectrum — is camp a good fit?+

    Equine-assisted therapeutic riding can be tremendously beneficial for children with a range of physical and emotional needs. As a competitive hunter/jumper show barn and camp, our instructors and horses aren't trained for those specialized programs — a quick search will turn up excellent dedicated options in the area.

  • What is your cancellation and refund policy?+

    Full payment is required to reserve a camp spot and is non-refundable; deposits aren't accepted. If you cancel more than 7 days before camp begins and we're able to fill your spot, you'll receive a refund of the camp cost minus a $125 fee.

"A little preparation goes a long way — the rest, your camper will learn in the saddle."

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