4.5 (31 reviews)
Castle Rock Arabians is a small but effective horse ranch that caters to the individual’s need and desire to make horses part of their lifestyle.
Great winter break camp. My daughter loves the camp and is so excited to go every day.
My neice did several weeks here at Castlerock Arabians, she loved it so much, learned skills, gained confidence around horses and made so many friends there! The apprentices and manager are very kind and caring with the kids. It’s a great environment where kids can learn how to ride, learn about how to care for horses, get their hands a little dirty and enjoy nature and being outside while building friendships as well. I would recommend it to anybody! Also, they were pretty flexible with schedules so that was great. We will be back for sure! Also, we will probably start lessons for her soon since she loved this camp so much. Definitely recommend!
My daughter really enjoyed the first time and asked me to come back. She loves the apprentices and the instructor.
I wasn't sure if my 11 year old son would like the camp because he didn't want to get stuck with the beginners. When I picked him up, he did not want to leave. He had an amazing time with all the other kids. Ms Rebecca was phenomenal! She even let him ride her horse. He did not feel held up and was able to ride at his pace. He asked If I can take him there everyday!? It brought such joy to see him enjoy himself. We will be back asap.
Thank you!
Thank you!
December 29, 2023
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Jacquelyn Sousa
Verified Purchase
We love Castle Rock Arabians! Both of my daughters have attended camp at Castle Rock Arabians and have really enjoyed the experience. Their day was filled with everything from riding lessons, grooming, feeding, cleaning the stalls, the whole experience and they loved every minute and can't wait to go back. The camps have been well organized and the instructors have been very nice and knowledgeable.
We signed up for the one day camp based on the description on the website and all the activities listed. My almost 9 year old stated half the activities on the website were not offered. Out of the 6 hours she had two 30 min riding lessons and spent some time grooming the horses and mucking out stalls (another hour) but the rest of the day was spent sitting, watching the other kids take their turn riding, which equates to several hours of sitting. No art crafts were offered or other activity during this time. She described the day as "ok" but wasn't excited about returning - even for the horses.
Castle Rock Arabians
April 3, 2023
Dear Tina,
Thank you so very much for your feedback. It is extremely important to us to know how our campers feel about their experience at Castle Rock, and we appreciate that you took the time to share. Moving forward, we will incorporate your feedback into how we structure our non-riding time during camps.
It does seem that your daughter enjoyed the horses, if not the entire camp experience. As such, we would love to have her back for a discounted private lesson. If this is of interest, please reach out to our booking assistant at visitcra@gmail.com and she will get you set up.
Again, thank you for taking the time to share your experience.
Kind Regards,
Nancy Dupont, Castle Rock Arabians
Thank you so very much for your feedback. It is extremely important to us to know how our campers feel about their experience at Castle Rock, and we appreciate that you took the time to share. Moving forward, we will incorporate your feedback into how we structure our non-riding time during camps.
It does seem that your daughter enjoyed the horses, if not the entire camp experience. As such, we would love to have her back for a discounted private lesson. If this is of interest, please reach out to our booking assistant at visitcra@gmail.com and she will get you set up.
Again, thank you for taking the time to share your experience.
Kind Regards,
Nancy Dupont, Castle Rock Arabians
This camp was everything my granddaughter hoped for; learning about the care of horses, daily grooming, riding a horse, meeting the staff and other campers. The camp was well organized and kept them busy. Now she wants a horse!
My son had a great time and Rebecca the instructor was very pleasant.
We unfortunately did not have a great experience in this camp for our 12 year old daughter. Two stars , not one, because after calling the director, the last 3 days improved significantly. Despite letting them know she was an advanced beginner / intermediate rider, they she was only allowed to walk around the arena for the 1st 2 days. The 2nd day of camp we were told the riding was cut short due to "smoke" - however, they asked/ allowed the campers to carry hay up and down the hill repetitively (my daughter made 19 trips!) in poor air quality while they "rested the horses." That day , the shade structure blew down as well. Apparently there is an another indoor area that the kids are allowed to sit in - but they have to ask permission. Ironically, they were not told about it - so how would they know to ask? Instead, they sat and baked in 90 degree heat. Lastly, the water up in the arena was not running for most of camp, so the kids had to come down the hill every time to wash their hands. I am not sure if we were there on an "off" week - we were told that many of the instructors had "left for college," After I called, the director brought in additional help - and my daughter did enjoy learning riding for the last 3 days. Very disappointed that I had to call though for her to have a decent camp experience.
I am very grateful to Nancy and Rebecca for making sure my daughter had such a positive and inclusive experience. They are good people at Castle Rock Arabians with lots of years of memory making with young people who love horses.
My 12-year old loved the camp, even though only one hour of the day was actually spent riding horses.
I would say we really want to sign up again for longer but there are two things that would need to happen. Being it can be very hot in the Summer, there needs to be some kind of canopy or fabric to provide shade as the campers are out in the hot sun for so long. Super important. Second, if the only option for a restroom is a porta potty, it needs to be clean and large. There needs to be seat overs and clean. None of our circle used the bathroom the entire day because they said the porta potty was gross. Charging so much, access to a regular bathroom should be available.
Castle Rock Arabians
June 2, 2021
THANK you for your constructive criticism on Castle Rock Camp. I was appalled to hear that the porta potty was so gross. We are so sorry. Monday was the first day of camp and one day only. We had the largest attendance ever. While the potty is cleaned twice a week and was cleaned the day before camp, it filled up fast! I will make sure the seat covers are available as well. The small children, 7 and under are invited to come in to my home an use the bathroom with parental supervision.
We are also sorry about the shade tents. The vigorous wind blew down all of our tents and we did not have the time to replace them. We do, however have a large tack house where the kids can find air conditioned relief indoors. They usually want to be together up by the horse arena however. We just purchased new tents and umbrellas for our June 7 camp week and will remember to take them down if it is windy. It was a hard start for us that day. We wanted each camper to have a chance to attend but we probably should have turned more campers away. We hope you will give us the opportunity to serve you this summer in another camp.
We are also sorry about the shade tents. The vigorous wind blew down all of our tents and we did not have the time to replace them. We do, however have a large tack house where the kids can find air conditioned relief indoors. They usually want to be together up by the horse arena however. We just purchased new tents and umbrellas for our June 7 camp week and will remember to take them down if it is windy. It was a hard start for us that day. We wanted each camper to have a chance to attend but we probably should have turned more campers away. We hope you will give us the opportunity to serve you this summer in another camp.
My daughter loved it here and wants to come back! The instructors were all knowledgeable and friendly. I do appreciate that this was a low key, not your over the top "fancy" stable where my daughter was taught what it's like to own a horse. They got to feed, groom, clean and understand what stable life is like for the horses and owners.
The con side of things was that she wished she was able to do some of the hikes that the other groups got to do while she rode and wished that riding time was a little longer (it was an hr each day she was there).
Noting what the weather will be like when deciding when to enroll your child is another thought. It's great that this camp is on a weekly basis so you have a bit more flexibility but it can get quite hot here and kids are outside for most of the day.
The con side of things was that she wished she was able to do some of the hikes that the other groups got to do while she rode and wished that riding time was a little longer (it was an hr each day she was there).
Noting what the weather will be like when deciding when to enroll your child is another thought. It's great that this camp is on a weekly basis so you have a bit more flexibility but it can get quite hot here and kids are outside for most of the day.
We enrolled Dakota, 14 yo, in the summer camp as a beginning rider. She had a great experience meeting other teens with similar interest in horses and riding as well as learning so much about the responsibilities that go along with enjoying the hobby. She was proud to share her new knowledge every evening after camp and definitely wants to attend again. Thank you for providing a great experience for our daughter.
Best camp ever. My kids love so much going. I signed my kids for summer camp and they loved it so much that one of my kids is now an apprentice there.
Our daughter loved Winter horse camp! She's probably one of the youngest campers so she gets to ride the ponies. But she can't wait to "grow bigger" so she can ride on Mittens, one of her favorites horses. We will definitely be back!
My granddaughter loved it! Longer ride time than previous horse camp, more hands on with the horses also.
My daughter loved it! It was fun, safe and individualized. I was nervous about a camp during covid and they did a great job.
Jack & Ryan enjoyed the camp very much. After one one week’s camp , they were signed up for another week . Two. Weeks!! Everything worked out very well .
Our 9 year old son came back talking about the activities he did at camp every day with excitement. Working with the horses was great for him but also all the people working at the ranch are very friendly and make an effort so that the kids have a great experience.
March 29, 2019
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Mike Johnson
My Daughter and I visited today, it was our first time. I was very impressed with how friendly and welcoming everybody was! From the staff and horses, to the riders and their families, we received nothing but kindness and smiles from the very moment we arrived to the moment we left, we had nothing but wonderful time. Thank you Castle Rock Arabians!
My girls had a great time learning how to ride and take care of horses at Castle Rock Arabians. I would defiantly recommend this camp!
Knowledgeable staff, flexible and skilled trainers. Good facility for different levels. Comfortable atmosphere for children.
My daughter came here last year and had a blast. This year was not as good. The apprentices were mean and said bad words in front of my impressionable 9 year old. There were a few apprentices that were nice but I guess it is who you get.
They also didn't go to the pool the last day which was a highlight last year. Mostly I would of seen a more supportive environment for my daughter that would lift her up. I think next summer we will just get horse lessons instead a camp.
They also didn't go to the pool the last day which was a highlight last year. Mostly I would of seen a more supportive environment for my daughter that would lift her up. I think next summer we will just get horse lessons instead a camp.
Castle Rock Arabians
July 17, 2018
Dear Christine,
Thank you for your honest appraisal of our camp. I am appalled that the apprentices behaved badly whether in front of a camper or not. I am shocked but not surprised that even with training, two of the newer apprentices, age 14 are behaving inappropriately and are probably mimicking their old school friends. I have met with them and explained the consequences: They must behave professionally. If this occurs again, they will be dismissed from my ranch. There are no exceptions to bad language. I have been here 45 years and not had this complaint before.
I understand that, as you expressed, Kaitlyn is sensitive if someone is mean or her feelings are hurt. This is actually typical of 9 year olds and they need to be secure in knowing they will not be “put on the spot” or be embarrassed. They need frequent and personal interaction with the instructor. Obviously, this did not happen and I hold my helpers responsible for that. I will have eyes and ears on them going forward.
I have trained my seasoned apprentices to be professional and supportive but the newer ones are experiencing their first time helping and are now learning that I will not be lenient or permissive.
About the pool, we are happy to take them to the Castle Rock Park pool for lunch and a swim the day the Life Guards are on duty. It is a break in the routine. There are some moms that do not want the pool because they say they are here for horses and have a pool at their house. So we are going to give them a choice, to stay with the horses or to go swimming.
I hope that this addresses all your concerns. We really do want to be the best horse camp ever and that doesn’t mean just “Super Safe” horses but kind, thoughtful counselors.
Thank you for your honest appraisal of our camp. I am appalled that the apprentices behaved badly whether in front of a camper or not. I am shocked but not surprised that even with training, two of the newer apprentices, age 14 are behaving inappropriately and are probably mimicking their old school friends. I have met with them and explained the consequences: They must behave professionally. If this occurs again, they will be dismissed from my ranch. There are no exceptions to bad language. I have been here 45 years and not had this complaint before.
I understand that, as you expressed, Kaitlyn is sensitive if someone is mean or her feelings are hurt. This is actually typical of 9 year olds and they need to be secure in knowing they will not be “put on the spot” or be embarrassed. They need frequent and personal interaction with the instructor. Obviously, this did not happen and I hold my helpers responsible for that. I will have eyes and ears on them going forward.
I have trained my seasoned apprentices to be professional and supportive but the newer ones are experiencing their first time helping and are now learning that I will not be lenient or permissive.
About the pool, we are happy to take them to the Castle Rock Park pool for lunch and a swim the day the Life Guards are on duty. It is a break in the routine. There are some moms that do not want the pool because they say they are here for horses and have a pool at their house. So we are going to give them a choice, to stay with the horses or to go swimming.
I hope that this addresses all your concerns. We really do want to be the best horse camp ever and that doesn’t mean just “Super Safe” horses but kind, thoughtful counselors.
Been going there for years, taking numerous lessons as well as different camps during school holidays. She became an apprentice and has learned how to care for a horse, it’s tach, as well as ride. She’s been in competitions as well. Our family thinks it’s great!
Castle Rock Arabians
July 19, 2018
Thank you. Madison is a great rider and we look forward to her participation.
My granddaughter is over the moon happy at Castle Rock Camp. She is 5 3/4, loves the ponies and horses. The counselors and apprentices are amazing;. Very attentive and their expertise is evident. They also have unlimited patience and a real interest in teaching the campers. She will definitely be going back to this camp!
Castle Rock Arabians
July 14, 2018
Thank you Robin, your daughter is very special, and kind to the ponies. She even knows how to feed them carrots!
There is no doubt that my daughter enjoyed her week. She was exposed to horses and learned how to care for them etc. I did however have some negative impressions of the program and our experience. There was little to no communication between the parents and leaders. Possibly due to the young leaders lacking communication skills and ability to talk with adults? Many times they would be chatting amongst themselves at drop-off and pick-up, barely acknowledging parents or campers. There would have been zero interaction if it wasn't for me initiating and asking questions. Drop off and pick up was unclear and often extremely inconvenient and difficult due to space, as well. Do we need to sign the campers in/out? I questioned my daughter about the availability of water, which was indicated on the description when I signed up through the website. She said that none was available and she got thirsty. These little things may motivate me to try a different camp in the future.
Castle Rock Arabians
July 12, 2018
Hi Martina,
Thank you for your candid and constructive observations. I am taking steps to correct the impression that we “barely acknowledge arriving parents”. That is certainly not our intent. We are stationing an instructor in front to “meet and greet” the arriving parents. However, our Senior Directors (ages 23 and 27) are at the check in table under the awning giving the registered campers and their parents their full attention. Some of our leaders are with the horses, preparing them for the campers.
Yes, you do need to sign in and out. The sign out sheet is also under the awning. I apologize for having chatty leaders, most of their talking at the end of the day is with campers but I can change that. We usually have signs directing parents to the check in table and we are installing them again. We are a small ranch and even though it is a circular driveway, not everyone in a car goes the right way. There is a 10 acre parking lot across the street if that makes it easier to park and avoid the traffic jam.
Regarding water, WE HAVE PLENTY! Not only do we have two Alhambra Dispensers but 15 5 gallon bottles to replace the empties. We have available cases of water bottles in case the children forget to bring their own water bottle. They are always encouraged to refill their bottle. We also have mandatory water breaks.
If your daughter was riding in the arena and did not bring her own bottle of water to the arena, she may have been thirsty and felt that she could not ask for water until the riding was over. Since we encourage parents to include a bottle of water in their backpack with lunch, she should have had that water to bring to the arena drink.
I hope this addresses all your concerns. Especially the available water.
Thank you for your candid and constructive observations. I am taking steps to correct the impression that we “barely acknowledge arriving parents”. That is certainly not our intent. We are stationing an instructor in front to “meet and greet” the arriving parents. However, our Senior Directors (ages 23 and 27) are at the check in table under the awning giving the registered campers and their parents their full attention. Some of our leaders are with the horses, preparing them for the campers.
Yes, you do need to sign in and out. The sign out sheet is also under the awning. I apologize for having chatty leaders, most of their talking at the end of the day is with campers but I can change that. We usually have signs directing parents to the check in table and we are installing them again. We are a small ranch and even though it is a circular driveway, not everyone in a car goes the right way. There is a 10 acre parking lot across the street if that makes it easier to park and avoid the traffic jam.
Regarding water, WE HAVE PLENTY! Not only do we have two Alhambra Dispensers but 15 5 gallon bottles to replace the empties. We have available cases of water bottles in case the children forget to bring their own water bottle. They are always encouraged to refill their bottle. We also have mandatory water breaks.
If your daughter was riding in the arena and did not bring her own bottle of water to the arena, she may have been thirsty and felt that she could not ask for water until the riding was over. Since we encourage parents to include a bottle of water in their backpack with lunch, she should have had that water to bring to the arena drink.
I hope this addresses all your concerns. Especially the available water.
July 9, 2016
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Chris Stathis
Verified Purchase
My 5 year old grandson loved the summer camp. The staff and facility were outstanding.
January 8, 2016
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Laurie
I want to thank you for the wonderful riding lesson given to my 3 year old granddaughter Moriah today. Rebecca is a wonderful facilitator. She is gentle and friendly, putting Moriah completely at ease from the start. I especially appreciate how much time Rebecca gave to having Moriah groom Goldie before the ride and concluding the lesson by caring for Goldie afterward. During the riding portion of the experience, Rebecca's commitment to safety was evident. Thank you very much for an outstanding afternoon's adventure.
January 8, 2016
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Karen Watson
Anna is having such a great time at camp. Thanks so much for providing such a great opportunity for Anna.
January 8, 2016
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Anonymous
I took one basic dressage lesson with David and he is wonderful. I like the tone at this stable. They are professional and accommodating without being control freaks. I plan to go back for more lessons.
