Cheley Colorado Camps is hiring for summer ! A summer at Cheley means a safe, fun, and memorable summer where you learn about yourself and learn to “act spontaneously in the right.” More than 200 people from the United States and abroad comprise our staff. We attract people who want to make a difference in…
What Are Horseback Jobs at Summer Camp?
Horseback Jobs at Overnight Camps
Horseback jobs at summer camps are a dream gig for riders, barn managers, and horse pros who want to spend the summer in the saddle and the stable. From traditional sleepaway camps with English programs and trail rides to specialty residential equestrian camps running hunter/jumper or western training, horseback staff anchor one of the most beloved areas of camp life. If you love early mornings at the barn and watching kids grow as riders, this is the perfect summer.
As a horseback instructor at an overnight camp, you’ll teach riding lessons, manage daily barn chores, coach in shows, and care for camp horses. You’ll work across skill levels, from first-time riders to serious competitors. Many co-ed residential camps run English and western programs side-by-side and host horse shows or gymkhanas throughout the season. It’s a structured, demanding role that horse lovers find deeply rewarding.
What does a horseback instructor at summer camp do?
You’ll teach riding, manage barn chores, coach in shows, and care for camp horses. Daily feeding, tacking, mucking, and arena work anchor the role at most sleepaway camps throughout the summer camp season.
What certifications do horseback instructors need at sleepaway camps?
CHA (Certified Horsemanship Association) or BHS certifications are highly valued. Show coaching credentials, working student backgrounds, and CPR/First Aid are standard at every residential camp running equestrian programs.
Do summer camps run English, western, or both?
Both — many co-ed residential camps run combined programs across English (hunter/jumper, dressage) and western disciplines. Specialty equestrian camps may focus on one tradition. Always confirm program focus during your interview.
What does the pay look like for horseback jobs at summer camps?
Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience and certifications. Sleepaway 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 apply for horseback roles?
Yes — many residential camps hire international equestrian staff through J-1 programs like Camp America, CCUSA, and Camp Leaders. Riders with credentials from international federations are often well placed at sleepaway camps each summer.
Browse Summer Camp Horseback Jobs for 2026
Cheley Colorado Camps
Horseback
Island Lake Camp
50 Island Lake Road
Starrucca, Pennsylvania 18462
United States
Island Lake Camp is hiring for summer ! Thank you for your interest in working at Island Lake. Our staff members play the most important role in camp by creating a memorable summer for the campers and themselves. During your stay at Island Lake you will establish very special relationships with your campers and your…
Horseback
Camp Birchmont
693 Governor John Wentworth Hwy
Wolfeboro, New Hampshire 03894
United States
Camp Birchmont is hiring for summer ! As a staff member at Birchmont you will find the best camper to counselor ratio in camping. In fact, there is approximately one staff member to every three campers! Additionally we want to make sure that you are well supported and to that end, we have a senior…
