What to Pack for Horse Camp: The Ultimate Parent Checklist

If this is your first time sending your child to horse camp, you’re probably wondering what exactly to pack — and what to leave at home. We’ve got you covered with a simple, no-stress guide to help your camper stay safe, comfortable, and ready to ride.

Horse camp is about more than just saddles and reins. It’s a week filled with independence, adventure, and new friendships. But before your child trots into their first lesson, let’s make sure they’re fully prepared.

A child wearing a helmet holding a horse's halter during a horse camp. The horse is brown and white, and the background is outdoors with greenery.

Camp Reminders (Read First!)

These quick reminders help make each day run smoothly — for both staff and families:

Drop-Off: Camp opens at 8:30AM. Please don’t arrive earlier, as the main area will be closed to vehicle traffic.

Pick-Up: Be prompt at the end of the day. If early pickup is needed, check in with staff at the welcome table in the morning. Running late? Call us at 512.922.0289 — leave a message if we don’t answer.

Early Morning Drop-Off: Available only for campers enrolled in early care. Please arrive no earlier than 8AM.

After Camp Daycare: For those enrolled, pickup is no later than 5PM.

Drive Slowly: Safety is key. Keep speeds at 15MPH on the main road and 5MPH inside the camp area.

Friday Horse Show: Families are invited to attend the end-of-week horse show! Campers will demonstrate their riding progress and receive ribbons and certificates. You're welcome to check out your camper early afterward.

No Pets, Please: While we adore animals, we ask that you leave furry friends at home for everyone’s safety.

Lost & Found: Don’t forget to check before you leave on Friday — that missing water bottle or hoodie might be waiting there!

What to Pack for Horse Camp

We know mornings can get hectic, so here’s a clear list of what your camper needs:

Required Gear

These items are essential for safety during all riding activities:

  • ASTM/SEI approved horseback riding helmet (no bicycle helmets)

  • Riding boots with a smooth sole and a defined heel (no waffle soles or tall rubber boots) Any kind of boot with at least a 1-inch heel will be doable.

  • Long pants for riding: jeans, breeches, or jodhpurs (as long as they have as stretch to them)

Everyday Essentials

  • A refillable water bottle — must be 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 (already applied + packed for reapplication)

  • Any necessary medication (must be clearly labeled)

Summer-Only Items

  • Swimsuit and towel for water activities

  • $3–$5 for sno cones (Fridays) + extra cash for sundry snacks or drinks on other days

Optional Items

  • Apples, carrots, or horse cookies for barn walks (not required, but always appreciated by our four-legged friends!)

What to Leave at Home

  • Phones and non-essential electronics

  • Tall rubber boots

  • Bicycle helmets

  • Toys or valuables you’d hate to lose

Need to grab last-minute gear? We recommend Dover Saddlery for riding boots, helmets, and pants that meet camp safety standards.

Final Thoughts

Packing for horse camp isn’t just about riding — it’s about giving your child a sense of independence, care, and confidence. When they show up prepared, they’re free to focus on what matters most: having fun, making friends, and growing in and out of the saddle.

We can’t wait to see your camper at Switch Willo. Let the countdown to camp begin!

🧳 Need a printable version?
👉 Checklist: Be Ready for Camp! PDF

A black bike helmet, black ankle boots, and black pants with an adjustable waist.

Confidence is learned in the saddle. Let’s help your child grow — not just as a rider, but as a leader. Sign up today and take the first step.