PEPPERCORN RANCH
11200 Topa Vista Rd.
Santa Paula CA 93060
805 525 0854 office 805 217 1549 cell
We are 19 miles or 25 minutes from the Ventura County Government Center
The regular schedule is to have everyone work on preparing to ride when camp begins each day. This includes catching, grooming, and tacking up. Campers usually work in pairs for this and beginners are instructed and assisted in each step of the process. The first group rides while the second group does a learning activity about horses. The groups switch. After all riding is done, everyone helps with putting the horses away. There is a short break for lunch, followed by camp crafts, games, or equestrian practicum activities. We try to balance the groups by number, skill, and age levels. Usually there are no more than 4 in each group. Actual riding time depends on the skill level and stamina of the campers. We try to do non-riding activities appropriate for the experience and age of the children.
The first day of camp is often very slow as we review safety practices and give instruction for everything. Campers become more self-reliant each day and are often quite confident by the end of the week.
We encourage advanced riders to come the first or last week of camp so we can more easily teach at their level.
We encourage campers to bring a sack lunch, snacks, and drinks. It is often hot so food is best kept in coolers; soft or hard. We do provide an ice chest and bottled water.
Weather often changes so campers should be prepared for chilly or hot conditions. A hat for sun protection is recommended.
Jeans or riding pants are acceptable. Shorts are prohibited. Short sleeve shirts are recommended. Campers should expect to get dirty and wet while working with the horses!
Footwear should be smooth sole shoes with low heels. Tennis shoes are not acceptable. We do have some boots available to borrow. New boots should be worn around the house for short periods before camp begins to avoid soreness.
ASTM helmets are required while riding. We have a variety of sizes to loan, but personal riding helmets are cheap insurance. Many helmets may be purchased for around $30.
Clothing and equipment may be purchased at any tack store. The closest to us is the Wharf in Ventura. There are numerous horse equipment stores online and you can access some on our Useful Links page. We recommend that you do not spend a great deal of money until you know that your child is a committed equestrian!
If your child has never ridden before, we recommend he or she have an introductory lesson ($30) before camp begins. This helps create a smoother introduction to Peppercorn Ranch. You may call 805 217 1549 to make an appointment for an introductory lesson.