What ages is the camp designed for?

The Winter Kids Camp is designed for children ages 5 to 12.

Are helmets provided for riding sessions?

Yes, helmets are provided to ensure safety during riding lessons.

Is snack provided or should I pack food for my child?

Snacks are provided during the camp, but parents should send a water bottle.

What happens if the weather is bad during the camp?

In case of severe weather, the camp will notify families with any necessary updates or rescheduling.

How many children are in each group?

Each group is limited to 12 children to maintain a safe and supportive environment.

Do children need previous horse experience?

No prior experience is needed; the camp welcomes beginners and will teach foundational skills.

Winter Kids Camp in Galena: Hands-On Horse Adventures for Young Equestrians

Set in the charming town of Galena, Illinois, the Winter Kids Camp offers an engaging and memorable two-day horseback riding experience for children aged 5 to 12. Located at 200 N Brodrecht Rd, this program unlocks the world of equestrian skills and horse care in a fun and supportive environment. Whether your child is a budding equestrian or simply eager to spend quality time with horses, this camp is an ideal winter retreat that combines education, riding, and playful activity.

Galena itself is a gateway to the scenic landscapes and rolling hills of northwest Illinois, a place where outdoor adventures are plentiful year-round. This camp stands out as a unique opportunity for young riders to learn hands-on horse grooming and tacking—the essentials of horse care—alongside group riding lessons that build confidence and foster teamwork. Each afternoon session runs from 1 pm to 4 pm over two consecutive days (December 27th and 28th), balancing structured lessons with games and interactive activities designed to keep kids entertained and engaged.

The camp accommodates up to twelve children per group, ensuring personalized attention and a safe learning environment. Snacks are provided to keep energy levels high, though parents are kindly asked to send their child with a water bottle to stay hydrated. The focus on foundational horse knowledge, combined with practical riding experience, makes this camp a standout offering in the Galena outdoor recreation scene.

This program also supports key developmental skills, including responsibility through grooming tasks, physical fitness through riding, and social skills through group interaction. Parents appreciate the structured schedule that encourages a balance of learning and play during the winter break.

Galena’s setting offers a peaceful backdrop for this equine adventure, with cold-weather charm and the potential to explore additional winter activities nearby. The Winter Kids Camp is a rare chance to blend educational outdoor recreation with the unique joy of horse riding in a community-centered setting.

For families looking to introduce children to outdoor winter activities combined with animal interaction, this camp is a perfect match. Not only does it nurture a connection to nature and animals, but it also creates lasting memories of the true spirit of winter adventure in Illinois.

About Shenandoah Riding Center

Shenandoah Riding Center, located in Galena, Illinois, is an equestrian facility offering trail rides, clinics, events, and short-term horse boarding. The center operates on well-maintained grounds in the Galena Territory and provides indoor and outdoor arenas, a renovated stall barn, individual tack lockers, and extensive trail access.

Guided trail rides include the Evening Experience Trail Ride that highlights rolling hills, scenic overlooks, and a concluding herd run. Seasonal family events such as the Memorial Day Pony Party and Horses & Hot Rods combine pony rides, games, concessions, and community-focused activities.

Educational opportunities include clinics and multi-day programs led by recognized clinicians. Examples are the 3-Day Beginner Cow Clinic with Matthew Jobe and horsemanship clinics by TJ Clibborn and Veronica Painter, covering liberty work, trick training, groundwork, and group trail exercises. Specialized events like Pony, Prosecco & Polaroids and the Harvest Trail Obstacle Course offer themed social and competitive experiences for adults and families.

Short-term horse boarding at Shenandoah Riding Center emphasizes comfort and convenience for horse owners, with heated viewing areas and access to arenas and forty miles of trails. The facility prioritizes horse welfare through structured amenities and supervised activities.

Visitors and riders can expect professional wranglers, structured programming, and clear safety practices. The center’s diverse calendar, range of services, and on-site amenities make it a reliable destination for riders of varying skill levels seeking recreational rides, instructional clinics, or family-friendly events. Seasonal scheduling and online booking options simplify planning, while staff maintain clear communication, guest support, and consistency.