North Fork Horse and Pony Camps for Kids

For kids who love horses, ponies, and farm animals, a horse camp can be a memorable part of summer. Here are four North Fork programs where kids can ride, groom, and spend time with horses: some more riding-focused, others with a farm-camp feel.

Hedgewood Farm Pony Camp

Laurel

Hedgewood Farm offers three pony camp weeks for kids ages 5 and up. Every day, campers ride and learn to care for horses by grooming, bathing, tacking, and feeding them.

Besides riding and horse care, kids enjoy farm activities, water games, and a Fun Friday each week.

Ages 5 and up, Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. Three sessions: July 6 to 10, July 13 to 17, and August 17 to 21.

Hidden Lake Farms Equestrian Camp

Southold

Another option for kids ages 5 and older is Hidden Lake Farms, with weekly sessions throughout the summer. Each day features a riding lesson, grooming and horse care, crafts, and horse-themed activities like painting ponies and costume parties.

Groups are small, with no more than 8 campers. The camp is run by Miss Jackie and Miss Lia, both lifelong equestrians and certified teachers.

Ages 5 and up, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. June 29 through September 4.

The Little Red Barn

The Little Red Barn, in Jamesport, has two horse and pony programs. Both mix horse time with baby animals, crafts, games, water play, and weekly ice cream. Kids can spend time with bunnies, chicks, goats, lambs, and a miniature donkey. They also get to meet the farm's vet, equine dentist, and blacksmith during the summer.

Baby Farm Animal & Pony Camp

Jamesport

This camp is for kids ages 3 to 12 and is a good fit for younger children who want a mix of farm animals, pony time, and outdoor play. Ponies are a highlight of each day, with brushing, decorating, bathing, and pony rides.

Ages 3 to 12, Tuesday through Thursday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. June 16 through August 18.

Intro to Horses

Jamesport

Intro to Horses is for kids ages 8 and up who want a more horse-focused experience. Campers learn about breeds, anatomy, grooming, tacking, feeding, safety, and stable work. Each day also includes a riding lesson.

Ages 8 and up, Tuesday through Thursday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. July 7 through August 18.

A quick note before choosing

Before the first day, check what your child should wear and bring. Long pants, water, sunscreen, a hat, lunch, and a snack are usually needed. You may also want to ask if helmets or boots are provided and what the plan is for hot or rainy days.