What age groups can participate in the Private Camp?

The camp welcomes riders ages 6 to 16, with activities tailored to suit different skill levels and ages.

Is prior horseback riding experience required?

No prior experience is necessary; camps are designed to accommodate beginners through advanced riders.

Are meals provided during the camp?

No, participants should bring their own packed lunch to stay fueled throughout the day.

What should I wear for the camp?

Wear sturdy boots, layered clothing for weather changes, and bring sun protection for comfort and safety.

How many people are needed to book a Private Camp?

A minimum of two participants is required to book a Private Camp session.

Is transportation provided to and from the ranch?

No transportation is included; participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements.

Full Day Private Camp Adventures at Von Doeler's Ranch | Private

Located in the heart of Ontario’s Kawartha Lakes region, Von Doeler’s Ranch offers a unique outdoor adventure through its Full Day Private Camp experience. This full seven-hour day is designed to immerse groups in hands-on horsemanship, trail riding, and barrel racing activities customized to match a variety of skill levels. Situated near Rutherglen, the ranch provides a distinctly personal approach, where guests bond over shared challenges and successes amid the lush forests and gently rolling terrain that characterize this part of southern Ontario.

The ranch’s landscape features a blend of mixed hardwood and pine forests, open fields used for cattle and barrel racing, and winding trails that trace the natural contours of the land. Wildlife like white-tailed deer and red fox occasionally appear, heightening the outdoor feel. This is an area rich in farming history and horse culture, making it an ideal setting for learning traditional western riding skills alongside contemporary ranch activities.

What sets Von Doeler’s Ranch apart is its commitment to tailoring each day to the group’s interests — younger riders or beginners can start with fundamental horsemanship, while more experienced participants can sharpen rodeo skills like barrel racing or cattle work. The camp encourages both fun and skill-building in a safe, encouraging environment. Visitors are advised to pack a lunch and come prepared for a day of active, engaging adventure.

This private camp format serves families, youth groups, or friends seeking an intimate, focused outdoor experience different from larger, more generic riding schools. Its location near Rutherglen, within easy reach of the Greater Toronto Area, makes it a standout rural getaway offering fresh air, scenic rides, and hands-on horse skills that connect participants with both the land and the legacy of ranching in Ontario.