Horseback and Equestrian Jobs at Summer Camps
Horseback and equestrian jobs at summer camps cover one of the most cherished program areas in camp life. From traditional sleepaway camps with English riding and trail rides to specialty residential equestrian camps running hunter/jumper, dressage, and western training, instructors get to spend the summer mentoring riders, schooling horses, and shaping young equestrians. Whether you’re a working trainer, college rider, or longtime barn pro, this role is uniquely fulfilling.
As a horseback/equestrian instructor at an overnight camp, you’ll teach riding lessons across disciplines, coach in shows, lead trail rides, and care for camp horses. You’ll handle daily barn chores, support clinics and special events, and partner with barn managers on horse welfare. Many co-ed residential camps run English and western programs side-by-side, host weekly shows, and culminate the summer with a major equestrian event.
What does a horseback/equestrian instructor at summer camp do?You’ll teach riding across disciplines, coach in shows, lead trails, and care for camp horses. Daily barn chores and arena instruction anchor the role at most sleepaway camps throughout the summer camp season.
What certifications help when applying?CHA, BHS, and discipline-specific instructor credentials are highly valued. Show coaching, dressage, and hunter/jumper experience all stand out at residential camps with serious equestrian programs.
Are horse shows a part of the summer at camp?Often yes. Many co-ed residential camps run weekly schooling shows and a season-ending championship event. Specialty equestrian camps may also host invitationals throughout the summer at their sleepaway camp.
What does the pay look like for equestrian roles at summer camps?Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience and credentials. Overnight camps include room, board, and laundry alongside salary, which adds significant value to the overall summer camp package beyond the base figure.
Can international riders work in equestrian roles at camp?Yes — many residential camps hire international equestrian staff through J-1 programs. Riders with credentials from international federations are well placed at sleepaway camps every summer.
Browse Summer Camp Horseback/Equestrian Jobs for 2026
| Job Type | Setting |
|---|
| Full-Time Seasonal | Overnight Camp |
Start Date: June 1, 2026
End Date: August 31, 2026
Our extensive activity program at Birchmont is run by an incredible team of coaches, athletes, and artists. Depending on the area, our specialists will either run a program on their own or as part of a team of instructors – helping the campers to learn new skills, have fun and develop their confidence and ability in particular areas. Our specialists also play an important role with their assigned group, assisting as general counselors when not running their own activity area. This role is suited to someone with expertise or experience in a particular activity – previous coaching or teaching experience is preferred, but our Area Heads and Athletic Director are on hand to ‘teach the teachers’, and help talented athletes and specialists develop their own delivery style – so enthusiastic amateurs are welcome also! Current specialty areas which we are recruiting for include: Archery, Arts and Crafts, Baseball/Softball, Basketball, Fitness/Personal Training, Mountain Biking, Games (Physical Education), Performing Arts & Music, High Ropes, Horseback Riding, Tennis, and Soccer. Our Activity Specialists typically will spend about half their day delivering their activity area, and the other half of the day acting as General Counselors, so they get to have the full camp experience, while honing and sharing their skills in a particular program area. These roles are suited to current college students or graduates with a passion for their chosen activity.
