Ranch Overnight Camp
Register Online - Register by Mail/Fax
The Ultimate Horse Camp Experience!
The Ranch Camp Program is designed to give horse enthusiasts, ages 7 to 15, the opportunity to live in a close knit community that focuses on learning and developing riding ability. Although the Ranch Camp theme is western, all riding is in English style.
We offer seven levels of riding classes to accommodate riders of all abilities, beginner through advanced. In addition to mounted lessons, riders also have:
Our 1 to 3 staff to camper ratio coupled with our highly trained riding instructors ensure that riders of all abilities are given the time and attention to improve their riding skills and ability. Many highly respected riding instructors from all over New England recommend our Ranch Camp as a place to learn and reinforce existing skills, particularly because riders are so immersed in riding for one to two solid weeks. Additionally, over the past two years in a YMCA of the United States camp survey, Camp Jewell has been recognized as a national leader in the number of campers reporting to have made a new friend while at camp (over 98%).
Riding Lessons, Philosophy and Style
Each riding group rides at least once per day and frequently twice each day. There are 6-7 riders per group, each with its own instructor and an assistant present. Riding groups are determined by both age and ability.
Our lesson program provides instruction, fun and challenge to everyone from first time riders to those with years of experience. Our English riding lessons teach students to ride in a balanced seat emphasizing self awareness, effective use of the body, and understanding of the horse. This “all purpose” approach to riding will not only prompt better riding but also a more harmonious relationship between horses and riders of all disciplines and levels of experience.
We believe that all riders whether beginner, intermediate or advanced should receive the same quality of instruction and attention to detail. This means from day one we teach our riders to ride in a sophisticated manner using their minds and bodies competently to provide a solid foundation to grow as riders.
Facilities
Our Ranch Camp program is unique in that Ranchers live in their own camp community across the lake from main camp, called Hide-A-Way Ranch. Hide-A-Way features modern cabins, lakeside dining hall, outdoor pavilion, beautiful chapel, climbing tower, sports field, barn and four riding rings. Our pastures are a serene location for our 35 plus horses to eat and relax.
See pictures! See a map!
Program Diversity
Even though Ranchers spend much of their time with the horses, they also benefit from the large program diversity of Camp Jewell, including our focus on building meaningful and lasting friendships among campers and staff.
Affordability
Where else can a rider benefit from over 14 hours of quality instruction, live at premier multi-million dollar facility and enjoy over 30 additional camp activities for less than $140 a day?
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Junior Ranch Camp (ages 7-9) $925-$1,125
Junior Ranch is a one-week program specifically designed for our youngest riders, ages 7-9. The program focuses on the basics of horse care and riding and includes special activities such as a camp-out, cookout, picnic wagon ride and the horse game extravaganza. The village color is maroon.
The fee for a one-week session in 2010 ranges from $925 to $1,125. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your reservation. Financial assistance is available.
Session J1 July 4-10
Session J2 August 8-14
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director,
at 888 412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Drivers One-Week Ranch Camp (ages 10-12) $925-1,125
The Drivers Program is a one week camp designed for riders 10-12. The village color is maroon. Highlights specific to this program include:
Session 1A June 27-July 3
Session 1B July 4-10
Session 2A July 11-17
Session 2B July 18-24
Session 3A July 25-31
Session 3B August 1-7
Session 4A August 8-14
Session 4B August 15-21
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Top Hands Two-Week Ranch Camp (ages 12-15) $1,845-$2,045
The Top Hands program is specifically designed for riders ages 12-15. The village color is black. Highlights specific to this program include:
Session #1 June 27-July 10
Session #2 July 11-24
Session #3 July 25-August 7
Session #4 August 8-21
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Maine Horsepack Trip (ages 13-17) $2,495-$2,645
Explore the beautiful wilderness in northern Maine on horseback! This exciting two-week trip features horseback riding instruction with nationally renowned instructor Judy Cross, trail rides, whitewater rafting, exploration of Acadia National Park and a tour of Bar Harbor. Riders sleep in tents and cook over an open fire.
Campers on this trip should have intermediate riding level experience from the Camp Jewell riding program or similar organization. English and Western style riding are both acceptable. Riders who take this trip are also eligible to earn the coveted "Northpacker" neckerchief.
Session #3 July 25-August 7
Session #4 August 8-21 FULL! Please call for waiting list.
The fee for a two-week Maine Pack Trip ranges from $2,495 to $2,695. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your reservation. Financial assistance is available.
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Maverick Counselor-In-Training Program (age 16) $1,445-$1,645
The Maverick Program at Camp Jewell is for those campers aspiring to becoming a Ranch counselor. This is a four-week program designed to shift a camper’s focus from primarily riding to leadership development and teaching new skills to younger Ranch campers. The village color is gray.
Mavericks:
Session B (traditional camp sessions 3 and 4) July 25 – Aug. 21
The fee for a two-week session in the Maverick program ranges from $1,445 to $1,645. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your reservation. Financial assistance is available.
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Typical Daily Schedule
While there is truly no “typical” day at Ranch Camp, campers generally follow the schedule described
below. Meals, siesta and program times may vary by age, village group and day of week.
6:30am Rise and shine! Everybody Up! Get ready for the day/cabin clean up
7:30am Bring in the horses from the pasture and feed
7:45am Chapel service (example of non-denominational chapel themes: friendship, caring, honesty, etc.)
8:00am Breakfast
8:30am Shared responsibility...everyone helps to keep camp clean!
9:00am Ride/off-horse/non-horse activity
10:30am Ride/off-horse/non-horse activity
12:30pm Lunch/mail call
1:00pm Siesta (relax, write a letter home, take a nap)
2:00pm Ride or swim
5:45pm Trading Post (campers may choose one snack item)
6:15pm Dinner at Main Camp
7:00pm Evening activity (campfires, capture the flag, spirit fest, candle making, special events)
9:30pm Devotions, TAPS & good night!
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Neckerchief Achievement Award
The purpose of the Neckerchief is to give Ranchers, ages 10 and up, the opportunity to set a goal and purpose for their horsemanship lessons at camp. To obtain each neckerchief, the Rancher needs to obtain specific riding skills, exhibit a certain level of horsemanship and be an involved member of the Ranch community, eventually taking on a leadership role as they age. Although the neckerchief program is an honorable and strong tradition at camp, participation is not required.
Within the Drivers and Top Hands program, there are 7 levels of neckerchiefs attainable.
Drivers
Greenhorn
Colt
Yearling
Top Hands
Yearling
Mustang
Bronco
Jr. Wrangler
Wrangler
Although Wrangler is the highest level neckerchief reflecting riding, horsemanship, and leadership, two additional Neckerchiefs can be attained:
Post Wrangler
Maine Horse Pack Trip - Northpacker
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Registration & Information
Please click on the following links for online registration, forms and downloads:
Click here to register online
Download a printable registration form
Important Questions & Downloads
What is your cabin mate request policy?
What should my child bring to camp?
How are the facilities and cabins situated at camp? Please click here for a camp map.
How can I, as a parent, help prevent homesickness? How is it handled at camp?
What type of health form does my child need in order to attend camp?
Do you have questions about such things as medication distribution, allergies, check-in, insurance and the trading post?
Please refer to our Parent's Guide by clicking here.
Interested in signing up for two or more back-to back sessions? Please click here to find out more about our Hold Over Weekends.
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Register Online - Register by Mail/Fax
Spring Ranch Welcome Weekend
Ranch Welcome Weekend is a time for returning ranchers to share their Ranch Camp experience with new and potential campers. The weekend starts on Friday evening at 6pm with a welcome activity. On Saturday night campers enjoy a “cowboy campfire” that consists of making dinner, roasting s’mores and enjoying the new friendships made over the weekend. The weekend ends Sunday at 1pm. Snacks, meals, lodging, riding, and fun are all provided! Completed health forms are required for new and returning campers. Parents are welcome to attend the Open House on Sunday, April 18th from 2-4pm.
New Ranchers have the opportunity to meet some of our summer horses, ride on the trails, and learn what being a Rancher is all about. The weekend is more than just riding horses, however. All Ranchers enjoy many additional activities such as climbing Mt. Megiddo (our 40ft climbing tower), group games and campfires.
Registration Information
April 16-18, 2010
Cost $175 per camper
Sign up early! For more information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at jodi.gove@ghymca.org or call 888-412-2267.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Open House & Personal Tour Information
Trying to decide if Camp Jewell is right for your child? Is this your child’s first experience at a summer camp? To ease any concerns that you or your child might have, Camp Jewell hosts an open house at camp twice during the year. At our open house you can ask staff questions, tour the facility, view the summer menu, and watch a slide show presentation. A few activity areas are also open for fun! Reservations are not required.
Open House dates for 2010:
Sunday, February 14th, 2 to 4pm
Sunday, April 18th, 2 to 4pm
Sunday, June 6th, 1 to 3pm
To schedule a personal tour, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hold-Over Weekends
Several of our campers choose to attend more than one session each summer. When those chosen sessions are “back-to-back,” campers have the opportunity to enjoy Camp Jewell’s hold-over program. Hold-over runs from 11:30am on Check-out Saturday until lunch on Check-in Sunday.
Our hold-over program is more than just waiting around for the next camp session to start. In addition to getting the entire camp to themselves, hold-over campers get to enjoy activities normally reserved for different programs and age groups. Campers have the opportunity to climb Mt. Meggido, normally reserved for teens! Swimming, games, movies, and arts and crafts round out the fun. Plus, hold-over campers get to move into their cabins first and have all of their laundry washed. Adequate time is set aside, however, for the campers to just rest and relax.
Of course, parents are welcome to check-out their children during the hold-over weekend. Simply call ahead and indicate a pick-up time. We will insure your child will be ready to go and enjoy a dinner, movie, or activity with the family. If parents would like to stay overnight in the local area, there are several hotels and attractions available. For a full list of lodging and activity options, please click here.
Hold-over Weekend Dates
July 3-4
July 10-11
July 17-18
July 24-25
July 31 - August 1
August 7-8
August 14-15
Register online or download the printable regular camper registration form. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at 888-412-2267 or contact Ray Zetye, Camp Director, at ray.zetye@ghymca.org.
The Ultimate Horse Camp Experience!
The Ranch Camp Program is designed to give horse enthusiasts, ages 7 to 15, the opportunity to live in a close knit community that focuses on learning and developing riding ability. Although the Ranch Camp theme is western, all riding is in English style.
We offer seven levels of riding classes to accommodate riders of all abilities, beginner through advanced. In addition to mounted lessons, riders also have:
- Unmounted horsemanship classes
- At least one trail ride
- An introduction to vaulting
- Horse-drawn wagon ride
- Climbing
- Swimming
- Campfires
- Teambuilding games
- Overnight camp-out experience
- Arts & Crafts
- The daily care of our 35 horses Meet our horses!
- Many other traditional camp activities! See pictures!
- Optional participation in the Neckerchief Achievement Award Program
Our 1 to 3 staff to camper ratio coupled with our highly trained riding instructors ensure that riders of all abilities are given the time and attention to improve their riding skills and ability. Many highly respected riding instructors from all over New England recommend our Ranch Camp as a place to learn and reinforce existing skills, particularly because riders are so immersed in riding for one to two solid weeks. Additionally, over the past two years in a YMCA of the United States camp survey, Camp Jewell has been recognized as a national leader in the number of campers reporting to have made a new friend while at camp (over 98%).
Riding Lessons, Philosophy and Style
Each riding group rides at least once per day and frequently twice each day. There are 6-7 riders per group, each with its own instructor and an assistant present. Riding groups are determined by both age and ability.
Our lesson program provides instruction, fun and challenge to everyone from first time riders to those with years of experience. Our English riding lessons teach students to ride in a balanced seat emphasizing self awareness, effective use of the body, and understanding of the horse. This “all purpose” approach to riding will not only prompt better riding but also a more harmonious relationship between horses and riders of all disciplines and levels of experience.
We believe that all riders whether beginner, intermediate or advanced should receive the same quality of instruction and attention to detail. This means from day one we teach our riders to ride in a sophisticated manner using their minds and bodies competently to provide a solid foundation to grow as riders.
Facilities
Our Ranch Camp program is unique in that Ranchers live in their own camp community across the lake from main camp, called Hide-A-Way Ranch. Hide-A-Way features modern cabins, lakeside dining hall, outdoor pavilion, beautiful chapel, climbing tower, sports field, barn and four riding rings. Our pastures are a serene location for our 35 plus horses to eat and relax.
See pictures! See a map!
Program Diversity
Even though Ranchers spend much of their time with the horses, they also benefit from the large program diversity of Camp Jewell, including our focus on building meaningful and lasting friendships among campers and staff.
Affordability
Where else can a rider benefit from over 14 hours of quality instruction, live at premier multi-million dollar facility and enjoy over 30 additional camp activities for less than $140 a day?
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Junior Ranch Camp (ages 7-9) $925-$1,125
Junior Ranch is a one-week program specifically designed for our youngest riders, ages 7-9. The program focuses on the basics of horse care and riding and includes special activities such as a camp-out, cookout, picnic wagon ride and the horse game extravaganza. The village color is maroon. The fee for a one-week session in 2010 ranges from $925 to $1,125. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your reservation. Financial assistance is available.
Session J1 July 4-10
Session J2 August 8-14
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director,
at 888 412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Drivers One-Week Ranch Camp (ages 10-12) $925-1,125
The Drivers Program is a one week camp designed for riders 10-12. The village color is maroon. Highlights specific to this program include:
- Campout
- Picnic wagon ride
- Evening trail ride
Session 1A June 27-July 3
Session 1B July 4-10
Session 2A July 11-17
Session 2B July 18-24
Session 3A July 25-31
Session 3B August 1-7
Session 4A August 8-14
Session 4B August 15-21
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Top Hands Two-Week Ranch Camp (ages 12-15) $1,845-$2,045
The Top Hands program is specifically designed for riders ages 12-15. The village color is black. Highlights specific to this program include:
- Overnight trail ride and campout
- Horse show performance on closing day for parents and guests
Session #1 June 27-July 10
Session #2 July 11-24
Session #3 July 25-August 7
Session #4 August 8-21
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Maine Horsepack Trip (ages 13-17) $2,495-$2,645
Explore the beautiful wilderness in northern Maine on horseback! This exciting two-week trip features horseback riding instruction with nationally renowned instructor Judy Cross, trail rides, whitewater rafting, exploration of Acadia National Park and a tour of Bar Harbor. Riders sleep in tents and cook over an open fire.
Campers on this trip should have intermediate riding level experience from the Camp Jewell riding program or similar organization. English and Western style riding are both acceptable. Riders who take this trip are also eligible to earn the coveted "Northpacker" neckerchief.
Session #3 July 25-August 7
Session #4 August 8-21 FULL! Please call for waiting list.
The fee for a two-week Maine Pack Trip ranges from $2,495 to $2,695. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your reservation. Financial assistance is available.
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Maverick Counselor-In-Training Program (age 16) $1,445-$1,645
The Maverick Program at Camp Jewell is for those campers aspiring to becoming a Ranch counselor. This is a four-week program designed to shift a camper’s focus from primarily riding to leadership development and teaching new skills to younger Ranch campers. The village color is gray.
Mavericks:
- Assist and teach beginner riding skills in the horsemanship clinic under the supervision of ranch staff
- Learn and practice all safety procedures, teaching techniques, and leadership skills
- Receive hands-on training on how to be the primary instructors of our “Horsemanship Program”
- Create and lead at least four different devotions with campers in their group
- Lead at least one Chapel presentation each week
- Organize and implement a number of evening activities
Session B (traditional camp sessions 3 and 4) July 25 – Aug. 21
The fee for a two-week session in the Maverick program ranges from $1,445 to $1,645. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your reservation. Financial assistance is available.
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Typical Daily Schedule
While there is truly no “typical” day at Ranch Camp, campers generally follow the schedule described
below. Meals, siesta and program times may vary by age, village group and day of week.
6:30am Rise and shine! Everybody Up! Get ready for the day/cabin clean up
7:30am Bring in the horses from the pasture and feed
7:45am Chapel service (example of non-denominational chapel themes: friendship, caring, honesty, etc.)
8:00am Breakfast
8:30am Shared responsibility...everyone helps to keep camp clean!
9:00am Ride/off-horse/non-horse activity
10:30am Ride/off-horse/non-horse activity
12:30pm Lunch/mail call
1:00pm Siesta (relax, write a letter home, take a nap)
2:00pm Ride or swim
5:45pm Trading Post (campers may choose one snack item)
6:15pm Dinner at Main Camp
7:00pm Evening activity (campfires, capture the flag, spirit fest, candle making, special events)
9:30pm Devotions, TAPS & good night!
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Neckerchief Achievement Award
The purpose of the Neckerchief is to give Ranchers, ages 10 and up, the opportunity to set a goal and purpose for their horsemanship lessons at camp. To obtain each neckerchief, the Rancher needs to obtain specific riding skills, exhibit a certain level of horsemanship and be an involved member of the Ranch community, eventually taking on a leadership role as they age. Although the neckerchief program is an honorable and strong tradition at camp, participation is not required.
Within the Drivers and Top Hands program, there are 7 levels of neckerchiefs attainable.
Drivers
Greenhorn
Colt
Yearling
Top Hands
Yearling
Mustang
Bronco
Jr. Wrangler
Wrangler
Although Wrangler is the highest level neckerchief reflecting riding, horsemanship, and leadership, two additional Neckerchiefs can be attained:
Post Wrangler
Maine Horse Pack Trip - Northpacker
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Registration & Information
Please click on the following links for online registration, forms and downloads:
Click here to register online
Download a printable registration form
Important Questions & Downloads
What is your cabin mate request policy?
What should my child bring to camp?
How are the facilities and cabins situated at camp? Please click here for a camp map.
How can I, as a parent, help prevent homesickness? How is it handled at camp?
What type of health form does my child need in order to attend camp?
Do you have questions about such things as medication distribution, allergies, check-in, insurance and the trading post?
Please refer to our Parent's Guide by clicking here.
Interested in signing up for two or more back-to back sessions? Please click here to find out more about our Hold Over Weekends.
For additional information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Register Online - Register by Mail/Fax
Spring Ranch Welcome Weekend
Ranch Welcome Weekend is a time for returning ranchers to share their Ranch Camp experience with new and potential campers. The weekend starts on Friday evening at 6pm with a welcome activity. On Saturday night campers enjoy a “cowboy campfire” that consists of making dinner, roasting s’mores and enjoying the new friendships made over the weekend. The weekend ends Sunday at 1pm. Snacks, meals, lodging, riding, and fun are all provided! Completed health forms are required for new and returning campers. Parents are welcome to attend the Open House on Sunday, April 18th from 2-4pm. New Ranchers have the opportunity to meet some of our summer horses, ride on the trails, and learn what being a Rancher is all about. The weekend is more than just riding horses, however. All Ranchers enjoy many additional activities such as climbing Mt. Megiddo (our 40ft climbing tower), group games and campfires.
Registration Information
April 16-18, 2010
Cost $175 per camper
Sign up early! For more information, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at jodi.gove@ghymca.org or call 888-412-2267.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Open House & Personal Tour Information
Trying to decide if Camp Jewell is right for your child? Is this your child’s first experience at a summer camp? To ease any concerns that you or your child might have, Camp Jewell hosts an open house at camp twice during the year. At our open house you can ask staff questions, tour the facility, view the summer menu, and watch a slide show presentation. A few activity areas are also open for fun! Reservations are not required.
Open House dates for 2010:
Sunday, February 14th, 2 to 4pm
Sunday, April 18th, 2 to 4pm
Sunday, June 6th, 1 to 3pm
To schedule a personal tour, please contact Jodi Gove, Ranch Director, at 888-412-2267 or jodi.gove@ghymca.org.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hold-Over Weekends
Several of our campers choose to attend more than one session each summer. When those chosen sessions are “back-to-back,” campers have the opportunity to enjoy Camp Jewell’s hold-over program. Hold-over runs from 11:30am on Check-out Saturday until lunch on Check-in Sunday.
Our hold-over program is more than just waiting around for the next camp session to start. In addition to getting the entire camp to themselves, hold-over campers get to enjoy activities normally reserved for different programs and age groups. Campers have the opportunity to climb Mt. Meggido, normally reserved for teens! Swimming, games, movies, and arts and crafts round out the fun. Plus, hold-over campers get to move into their cabins first and have all of their laundry washed. Adequate time is set aside, however, for the campers to just rest and relax.
Of course, parents are welcome to check-out their children during the hold-over weekend. Simply call ahead and indicate a pick-up time. We will insure your child will be ready to go and enjoy a dinner, movie, or activity with the family. If parents would like to stay overnight in the local area, there are several hotels and attractions available. For a full list of lodging and activity options, please click here.
Hold-over Weekend Dates
July 3-4
July 10-11
July 17-18
July 24-25
July 31 - August 1
August 7-8
August 14-15
Register online or download the printable regular camper registration form. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at 888-412-2267 or contact Ray Zetye, Camp Director, at ray.zetye@ghymca.org.
