Nestled in the serene landscapes of Troutdale, Virginia, Rocky Hollow Horse Camp offers a unique retreat into the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This camp, established with a deep respect for equine companionship and outdoor adventure, invites campers to immerse themselves in a setting where lush forests meet clear skies.

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp has been fostering a love for horses and nature among young adventurers for several years. Situated near prominent natural landmarks such as the Grayson Highlands State Park and the Appalachian Trail, the camp provides a perfect backdrop for exploration and learning.

The camp’s mission centers around enriching the lives of its campers through hands-on experiences with horses, fostering a safe and nurturing environment where young riders can grow both in skill and character. The philosophy of Rocky Hollow is built on the pillars of respect, responsibility, and resilience, encouraging campers to develop strong bonds with their horses while gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp is designed for boys and girls across various age groups, providing tailored programs that cater to different levels of riding proficiency. Whether it’s a beginner getting their first taste of horseback riding or a more experienced rider looking to refine their skills, Rocky Hollow offers a comprehensive, enjoyable, and educational experience for all its campers.

Programs Offered by Rocky Hollow Horse Camp

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp offers a diverse range of programs that cater to the interests and skill levels of its campers, all while focusing on equine education and outdoor activities. Each program is thoughtfully designed to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable experience, nurturing a love for horses and the great outdoors.

Programs Description

Beginner Riding Program: Tailored for campers with little to no horseback riding experience, this program focuses on the basics of horse care, safety, and riding skills. Campers learn about grooming, tacking, and fundamental riding techniques through gentle, guided sessions.

Intermediate Riding Program: Designed for campers who have some riding experience, this program challenges them to enhance their skills in more complex riding techniques and horse management. The sessions include trail riding and basic equestrian exercises.

Advanced Riding Program: For campers who are proficient riders, this program offers intensive training in advanced riding styles, jumping, and competitive riding techniques. Campers engage in rigorous practice sessions and participate in mock competitions.

Exploration and Adventure Program: This non-riding program combines nature exploration with outdoor survival skills. Campers participate in hiking, and wildlife tracking, and learn about local ecology, emphasizing environmental stewardship.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These are introductory sessions suitable for all levels, providing a quick and intensive dive into horseback riding basics or advanced techniques.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions offer a more in-depth experience, allowing campers to develop and refine their skills over a longer period. They include comprehensive horse care and advanced riding techniques.
Full Summer Program: Spanning several weeks, this program is designed for serious equestrian enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves fully in horseback riding and related activities. It often culminates in a camp-wide rodeo or exhibition.

Specialty Programs

Equestrian Arts: This creative program blends artistic skills with equine knowledge, where campers engage in activities like painting horse portraits and crafting horse-related art projects.
Outdoor Leadership: Focused on older campers, this program emphasizes leadership skills, team-building activities, and advanced outdoor survival techniques.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM: Morning feed and horse grooming
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Riding lessons or trail rides
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest period or free time
2:00 PM: Afternoon program session (e.g., Equestrian Arts, Outdoor Leadership)
5:00 PM: Evening feed and horse care
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Lights out

This schedule provides a structured yet flexible environment where campers can thrive and develop a profound connection with nature and their equine partners.

Accommodations in Rocky Hollow Horse Camp

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp provides comfortable and rustic accommodations designed to enhance the outdoor experience while ensuring safety and comfort for all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Rocky Hollow Horse Camp consists of cozy, wooden cabins that blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, accommodating between 8 to 12 campers. Cabins are divided by age group and gender to ensure comfort and appropriateness for all campers.

Tents: For more adventurous sessions, especially during specialty programs like the Outdoor Leadership track, campers have the option to sleep in tents. This provides a more immersive outdoor experience, teaching campers how to set up their own tents and live comfortably in the wilderness.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Rocky Hollow Horse Camp offers a full meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall. Breakfasts typically include options like pancakes, eggs, and fruits, while lunches and dinners feature a variety of proteins, vegetables, and starches, ensuring that campers receive the necessary nutrition to stay active and healthy throughout the day.

Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp provides vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meal options. Parents are encouraged to discuss any specific dietary restrictions with the camp staff during registration to ensure these needs are met throughout their child’s stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Centralized Facilities: The camp boasts modern, centralized bathroom and shower facilities. These are strategically located near the cabins and common areas to provide easy access. Separate facilities are provided for male and female campers, and each is equipped with multiple stalls and showers to accommodate the camp population efficiently.

Cleanliness and Hygiene: Emphasizing the importance of hygiene, the facilities are cleaned and sanitized multiple times a day by the camp staff. Additionally, campers are encouraged to maintain cleanliness and order within their living and bathing spaces, fostering responsibility and respect for shared environments.

These accommodations and facilities at Rocky Hollow Horse Camp are thoughtfully designed to ensure that campers have a comfortable, enjoyable, and safe camping experience, all while staying connected to the natural world around them.

Activities in Rocky Hollow Horse Camp

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp offers a diverse array of activities that cater to various interests and skill levels, ensuring an engaging and enriching experience for all campers. These activities are designed to complement the equestrian focus of the camp while promoting personal growth and a love for the outdoors.

List of Activities Offered

Horseback Riding: Daily riding lessons, trail rides, and equestrian care form the core of the camp’s activities, suitable for all skill levels.
Swimming: The camp features a natural lake where campers can swim under the supervision of certified lifeguards.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the surrounding trails offer campers the opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna.
Crafts: Arts and crafts sessions allow campers to express their creativity, often with projects related to horses and nature.
Archery: Summer camps can learn and practice archery on the camp’s safely equipped archery range.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Lessons in building shelters, fire-making, and orienteering help campers develop practical outdoor skills.
Environmental Education: Programs designed to teach campers about local wildlife, conservation, and the importance of sustainable living.
Evening Bonfires: Campfires are a nightly tradition, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Rodeo: At the end of each session, the camp hosts a rodeo where campers can showcase their riding skills and compete in friendly competitions.
Color Wars: This camp-wide event splits campers into teams to compete in various sports, puzzles, and creative contests, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
Final Night Banquet: A celebratory banquet on the last night of the camp session allows campers to reflect on their experiences and achievements.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to take on leadership roles, assisting with younger groups or leading certain activities.
Advanced Equestrian Skills: For those interested in more than just recreational riding, advanced classes in dressage, jumping, and horse management are available.
Certifications: The camp occasionally offers certifications in first aid and CPR, as well as riding instructor certifications for eligible older campers.

These activities and events at Rocky Hollow Horse Camp not only make each day exciting and varied but also help develop important life skills, such as leadership, responsibility, and environmental stewardship, ensuring that campers leave with more than just fond memories.

The staff of Rocky Hollow Horse Camp

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp takes great pride in maintaining a highly qualified and dedicated staff to ensure a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. The camp places a strong emphasis on staff training and certifications, aligning with its commitment to providing a supportive and professional environment.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

The camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is one staff member for every five campers. This allows staff to closely monitor camper safety, provide individualized instruction, and effectively manage small groups during activities, especially in horseback riding and outdoor adventures.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process:

Application and Screening: Potential staff members must complete a detailed application, followed by a thorough screening process including background checks and reference verifications.
Interviews: Candidates go through multiple rounds of interviews to assess their skills, experience, and suitability for the camp environment.
Skills Assessment: For positions requiring specific skills, such as horseback riding instructors or lifeguards, applicants must demonstrate their proficiency.

Staff Qualifications:

Educational Background: Many staff members are pursuing or have completed degrees in relevant fields such as education, recreation, or animal sciences.
Experience: Prior experience in camping, teaching, or child care is highly sought after.
Specialized Skills: Staff members, particularly those involved in specific activities like horseback riding or swimming, often hold additional qualifications or have significant experience in their areas.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo an intensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and specific activity leadership.
CPR and First Aid: All camp staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often provided by the camp during the pre-camp training sessions.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, staff members may also hold additional certifications such as Lifeguarding, Horse Riding Instruction, or Wilderness First Responder.

This rigorous approach to staff selection and training ensures that Rocky Hollow Horse Camp is equipped to provide a safe, enriching, and fun-filled camping experience. The staff’s expertise and dedication play a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment where campers can thrive and explore their interests.

Safety and Health in Rocky Hollow Horse Camp

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp prioritizes the safety and health of all its campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining robust facilities to ensure a secure and responsive environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

General Safety Measures:

Activity-Specific Training: Campers receive detailed instructions and safety briefings for each activity, especially those involving horses and outdoor adventures, to ensure they understand how to participate safely.
Equipment Checks: All equipment, from horse tack to archery bows, is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.
Supervised Activities: All activities are closely supervised by qualified staff members, with strict adherence to safety guidelines and camper-to-staff ratios.

Risk Management:

Emergency Drills: Regular drills for fire, weather emergencies, and other potential risks are conducted to ensure both campers and staff are prepared and aware of procedures.
Safety Briefings: Upon arrival, campers and their parents receive a safety orientation that covers the camp’s rules and the expected behavior to maintain a safe environment.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Facilities:

Health Center: Rocky Hollow Horse Camp has a well-equipped health center on-site, staffed by licensed healthcare professionals capable of handling minor injuries and illnesses.
Isolation Areas: For cases of contagious illnesses, there are designated isolation areas to prevent the spread and manage the health of affected campers effectively.

Health Staff:

Medical Staff: The camp employs nurses and/or a part-time visiting doctor to provide medical care and oversee the administration of medications.
First Aid Trained Staff: In addition to the dedicated health staff, many of the camp’s counselors and activity leaders are trained in First Aid and CPR to ensure immediate response capabilities across the camp.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan:

Immediate Response: All staff are trained to respond immediately to any emergency, whether it involves an injury, a lost camper, or a natural disaster.
Communication: The camp has a clear communication plan for emergencies, including notifying local authorities and parents as required. Communication tools are tested regularly to ensure functionality.
Evacuation Procedures: Detailed evacuation plans are in place, tailored to various scenarios including fire, severe weather, and other critical incidents. Evacuation routes and gathering points are clearly marked and communicated to all at the camp.

Parental Notification:

Timely Information: Parents are promptly informed of any emergencies affecting their child, along with regular updates on the situation and the measures being taken.

By maintaining stringent safety protocols, well-equipped health facilities, and clear policies for handling emergencies, Rocky Hollow Horse Camp ensures that the well-being of its campers and staff is upheld, fostering a safe and positive environment for all participants.

Cost and Registration in Rocky Hollow Horse Camp

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for campers, with a structured fee system that covers all the essentials of camp life. Understanding that families have different budgets, the camp also provides several financial options to accommodate various needs.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Rocky Hollow Horse Camp varies depending on the length and type of program selected. One-week sessions typically range from $500 to $700, while two-week sessions may cost between $900 and $1,200. Full summer programs have a different pricing structure that can be provided upon inquiry.
Included in the Cost: Fees generally cover all camp activities, meals, accommodations, and any equipment required for the activities, such as helmets for horseback riding. Also included are the costs for any special events or evening activities that occur during the camp session.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process:

Interested families can register online, where they can fill out the necessary forms, choose their session, and submit any required health documentation.
Early registration is encouraged as spaces in popular sessions fill up quickly.

Deadlines:

Registration typically opens in January for the summer sessions, with early bird specials available until the end of March. Final deadlines for registration are usually set for the end of May, but this can vary depending on the session availability.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans:

The camp offers flexible payment plans that allow families to pay in installments. These plans can be set up monthly or quarterly, depending on what best suits the family’s financial situation.

Refunds and Cancellation Policies:

A full refund is available if cancellation occurs at least 60 days before the camp session begins. A 50% refund is offered up to 30 days before the session starts. After this period, refunds are not typically provided unless the cancellation is due to medical reasons, for which documentation must be provided.
In case the camp must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., severe weather conditions or health emergencies), full refunds or the option to transfer registration to a future session are provided.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families who need financial assistance. These scholarships can cover the partial or full costs of attending the camp.
Families interested in applying for a scholarship must submit an application, which includes a statement of need and any supporting financial documents. These applications are typically due by the end of April.

By providing detailed information on costs, a straightforward registration process, flexible financial options, and support for those in need, Rocky Hollow Horse Camp makes it possible for many children to enjoy a memorable and transformative summer experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Rocky Hollow Horse Camp

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp ensures that both campers and their parents are well-prepared for the camp experience by providing clear guidelines on what to bring, camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-timers. This preparation helps set the stage for a smooth and enjoyable camp experience.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need, Rocky Hollow provides a detailed packing list, which includes:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire, including long pants for riding, shorts, T-shirts, a jacket, and rain gear. Campers should also pack a hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes (boots for riding and sneakers for other activities).
Riding Gear: While the camp provides helmets, campers with their own riding gear are encouraged to bring it along, ensuring it meets current safety standards.
Bedding and Toiletries: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, towels, and personal toiletry items.
Sun and Insect Protection: Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and insect repellent.
Water Bottle: A durable water bottle for hydration throughout the day.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Essential for evening activities and navigating the campsite at night.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use:

Campers are encouraged to disconnect from digital devices during their stay to fully engage with the camp experience. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically collected upon arrival and returned at the end of the session.

Visitation:

To ensure the safety and structure of the camp environment, visitation during sessions is generally limited to special events or closing-day activities. Parents are informed ahead of these occasions and are welcome to participate as specified by the camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Be Open to New Experiences: Try different activities, even those that might seem challenging at first.
Make Friends Early: Engage with fellow campers and participate in group activities to form friendships.
Stay Organized: Keep track of your belongings and maintain a tidy space in your cabin or tent.

For Parents:

Set Expectations: Discuss what the camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new skills your child will learn.
Stay Positive: Express confidence in your child’s ability to have a great time and handle being away from home.
Communicate: Utilize any pre-arranged times or methods for communication (if allowed by the camp) to stay in touch without disrupting the camp experience.

By carefully packing, adhering to camp rules, and embracing the spirit of camping, both first-time campers and their parents can ensure a fulfilling and memorable experience at Rocky Hollow Horse Camp.

Rocky Hollow Horse Camp in Troutdale, Virginia, stands out as a premier destination for young equestrians and adventure enthusiasts. With its breathtaking location in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the camp offers an ideal setting for children to explore the great outdoors while forming lifelong friendships and skills. From horseback riding across picturesque trails to engaging in a myriad of activities designed to foster personal growth and teamwork, Rocky Hollow provides a rich, supportive environment where every camper can thrive.

The camp’s commitment to safety, combined with a robust program of activities and expert staff, ensures that each camper’s experience is both enjoyable and enriching. Whether it’s mastering new riding skills, participating in exciting outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying the camaraderie around a campfire, Rocky Hollow Horse Camp promises an unforgettable summer filled with fun, learning, and adventure. This is more than just a camp—it’s a community where campers leave with increased confidence, new skills, and memories that will last a lifetime.