Wildhorse Ranch

Summary Profile
Wildhorse Ranch answered our questions

Who are you as an organization?
Stay for a week & Be Inspired by Horses in Alberta ! We have provided 25 years of Expert, Safe, Fun, practical horse riding and Heart to Heart Connections between horses and humans! Girls gain so much confidence with the consistent horse activities - their self esteem rockets upward! We coach, encourage, and empower leadership and life skills through horsemanship. There are 50 personable, well trained horses & 480 acres of magical fields and forests to ride on. Our campers come from Canada & around the world. Stay in charming cabins and enjoy the evening campfires, songs and more! Eat fresh food and fruit from our gardens and enjoy the taste of "fresh picked".

Special needs: Not available
What do you do differently or uniquely well?

"Wildhorsecamp has exceptional hands on, full day, horse programs. Learn safety and practical horsemanship and add in lots of FUN. We walk to the big pasture where girls pick and then catch their horse and "Lead the Way" back to the saddling area every day. We have small groups, excellent instruction, and being in nature all day increases emotional wellness. Horses help decrease stress levels and anxiety. The Ranch create experiences that build self confidence, increases communication, cooperation, compromise and empathy. With a no cell phone policy "Conversation" is a Big part of every day! Life long friendships are formed here. Parents are amazed at the personal growth that occurs during the week. Horses are our Lifelong Passion!"

Who are your staff and counsellors?

"We have a core of staff for year round horse experiences and for summer camps we add staff who are also passionate about connecting to horses and teaching practical horsemanship skills. We believe Practice makes Progress and its time spent with the horses: on the ground and in the saddle that make a successful rider. We have an all girls staff and ratio is 4:1. We are a small camp so the campers get to know each other and the staff on a "connected level", there are great conversations around the campfire and during mealtimes. "

What do families need to know about registration?

"Registrations are now open for 2023. Spots are limited. Four week long camps one in July and 3 in August. Two spring break camps. Call or email for a registration pkg.
We have a no refund policy.
We like to do a phone interview before you sign your child up to make sure she is a good fit for our camp
Please make sure that your child has stayed away successfully at a previous camp or with friends ( relatives do not count) that will ensure that she has a great time at our "horse immersion camp"!
You can contact us through email or phone for a registration pkg or there is also a package on the website at:
www.wildhorsecamp.com "

Photo Gallery

Programs, Rates & Dates

Programs and Sessions Calendar

Choose the right programs and sessions for your child; Wildhorse Ranch currently has 2 programs available; 8 TBD.

Filter activities :

Name

Type/Gender

Specialty

Location

Date

Bus

Cost

Inspirational Trail Rides

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Class/league/program
Coed
Ages: 10 - 18+

Horseback Riding/Equestrian

$100

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Apr 01-Dec 15

$100

Snowshoe program

view details

Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 12 - 18+

Wilderness Out-tripping, Adventure (multi)

$99

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Nov 15, 2023-Mar 15, 2024

$99

Western Trail Riding in Alberta

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Class/league/program
Coed
Ages: 11 - 18+

Horseback Riding/Equestrian

$100 to $250

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Winter Break Painted Ponies Cowgirl Camp

view details

Overnight Camp
All Girls
Ages: 12 - 17

Horseback Riding/Equestrian

$650 to $725

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Mother Day's Weekend Family Camp

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 10 - 18+

Adventure (multi)

$450

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Snowshoe Walk in the Wild

view details

Day Camp
Coed
Ages: 12 - 18+

Wilderness Skills

$99

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Snowshoeing with the Star People

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Day Camp
Coed
Ages: 12 - 18+

Sports-Instructional and Training

$99

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Spring Break Horse Camp

view details

Overnight Camp
All Girls
Ages: 12 - 16

Horseback Riding/Equestrian

$750

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Summer Horse Riding Camps

view details

Overnight Camp
All Girls
Ages: 12 - 17

Horseback Riding/Equestrian

$1,350

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Open Farm Days

view details

Class/league/program
Coed
Ages: 10 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$10 to $100

Rocky Mountain House, AB
Box 7 Site 9, RR#3

Date TBD

Cost TBD

Financial Aid & Payment Details

Payment Options:

Deposit required with acceptance	Yes
Credit card payment	Yes
Maximum installments available	3

Discounts

Discount if paid in full	$75
Discount if paid early	$100
Discount for 2nd child	$25
Discount for 3rd child	$25
Discount for 4th child	$25

Insider Reviews & Perspectives
The Our Kids review of Wildhorse Ranch

Three Things: Wildhorse Ranch
Hear the three things that Our Kids’ editors see when they look at Wildhorse Ranch

Visit Wildhorse Ranch website

Insider's Perspective(s) of Wildhorse Ranch
Casey Thomas, Parent

00:32 - What were you looking for when searching for camps?
01:41 - What was unique about this camp that made you want to enroll your daughter there?
02:23 - What was your daughter's first experience with the camp?
03:03 - What would you highlight about the camps program or counsellors?
04:54 - What does your daughter find most exciting about this camp?
05:46 - How and when did you know that this camp was the right fit for your daughter?
06:20 - Was there any change or noticeable personal growth that you saw in your daughter after her time at camp?
07:25 - How can you as a parent support your child to get the most out of this camp?
07:48 - How would you describe this camp to another parent?
08:19 - What does your daughter say about camp?
Review(s) of Wildhorse Ranch
Read all 19 reviews

Kirsten & Hailey (twins) (Alum) — Thankful for our experiences at the ranch

Thanks Diane!! You are so sweet. It was so great to catch up ♥️ we both are so thankful for all of our experiences at the ranch and the friendships and memories that will last a lifetime ☺️ you are an incredible wo... Read More

Acacia Australia (Alum) — Experience real, let the magic of this place in and be forever changed

I stayed at Wildhorse Mountain Ranch for 2 months and it was the most wonderful time. I was blessed with the opportunity to learn from both Diane and Bear about horsemanship, gardening and Canadian ranch life. Being in s... Read More

Ashley (Parent) — Wonderful things at this camp!

My daughter goes to this camp. She can be shy, and have some social anxiety, but when she comes here, she’s the happiest girl in the world. It’s such a wholesome, positive environment for children and adults. There’... Read More

Izabela (Parent) — Next year two weeks!

Great horse back riding experience. Beautiful surrounding nature. My daughter when asked if she liked it answered : "next year I would like two weeks mom". No more needed to be said.

Janette (Parent) — A 10/10 Experience!

I just wanted to let you know how much we appreciated your summer program. A 10/10 experience for Hannah! It is so wonderful to see these pictures of her BEAMING! She came away with so much confidence- "making 30 new be... Read More

Devlin (Parent) — Wonderful Experience

What a wonderful experience for our daughter. Her whole energy changed, maturity levels, responsibility, perspective and approach to life has a wonderful boost resulting from her time at camp. Highly recommend. This is a well run, responsible operation. Devli ... Read More

Jenn - Edmonton (Parent) — Growing Up with Confidence

Phoebe had such as great time at camp and will definitely be back next summer. She really grew up in the short days that she was away. I am so pleased with the care and love that she was shown by your excellent staff. She... Read More

Andrea (Parent) — Lots of Horse Time

My daughter has attended Wildhorse Ranch twice and had a fantastic time there each time. She has enjoyed how much time the girls have had with the horses, both riding and groundwork. As a parent, I have found communicati... Read More

Laurie (Parent) — Most Amazing Time

My daughter did a week camp here and LOVED it! She doesn't have much experience with horses and was so happy with experience she gained. She had been to a horse camp last summer and did not enjoy it anywhere near as much. ... Read More

Jennifer (Parent) — Loves this Camp

This is a wonderful place where my daughter can experience the beauty of wilderness, friendship, horses and a sense of autonomy. She loves this camp! Well worth the investment.

Jano (Parent) — Awesome Camp

My 12 year old daughter said it was an awesome camp- great food, very friendly staff had lots of fun and learned lots about horses. She had a great time with Poncho🐴. We just got back and she is already asking to return next summer, this time for 2 weeks ... Read More

Julian (Edmonton, Alberta) (Parent) — Forever in your Debt!

As parents of girls that visit your camps on a regular basis we are forever in your debt! You are the ones that provide a safe & enjoyable retreat for our girls that takes them to a place that they can forget about the tur... Read More

Sam (Camper) — I cried letting Gus go

Man oh man missing camp already! not gunna lie I cried letting Gus go out in the front field this afternoon :( definitely a place to be! best of fun! amazing people! honestly worth the long drive every time

Karlie (Camper) — Love coming here every year

I have come here every summer since I was nine it's such a great opportunity for young girls like me who love horses to spend five days or more on a such a beautiful ranch with horses all day Diane and Bear have made it fe... Read More

Jordan (Camper) — Can't wait to come back!

Just got back from Wildhorse Mountain Ranch !!! Had an amazing week!! Missing Ghost already!! Can't wait to come back for spring break and two weeks in the summer!!! Thanks so much you guys for the wonderful experience!!

Montana (Camper) — Missing you so much Already!

Missing you all so much already! What an awesome week, I love getting the chance to do nothing but ride, missing Spartan too :) he's just such a good boy!!! I'm already planning for next summer! Thank you so much for openi... Read More

Kristen (Camper) — Heaven on Earth

Words cannot describe this camp. Fun – an understatement, incredible – just not good enough. This camp was Heaven on Earth. I love my horse and I never want to leave.

Luisa (Camper) — Unforgettable Experience

You guys and your ranch bring so much peace to me, and I am sure I can speak for the other girls as well. Thank you again for a truly unforgettable experience and you can count on seeing me out and riding with you again!

Cass (Camper) — Never a Dull Moment

I would just like to thank you for everything you guys do, every time I come out I always have so much fun it's never a dull moment, the horses are all amazing and the food is good to of course haha I really appreciate everything you do for us!! ... Read More
Location & Site Details
Address

Box 7 Site 9, RR#3, Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, Canada
Accommodations

Sleeping Accommodations

Cabins

Amenities

Toilet in Sleeping Area

Washrooms Facilities

Outhouses
Showers (indoor)
Showers (outdoor)

More details about accommodations: Girls stay in classic pine cabins, located in our Old West Fort. 3 or 4 girls/cabin. Bunk bed accommodations. No power or running water in the cabins. Outhouses and water close by. We also have an option where the girls can choose an Adventure night and sleep in a cowboy tipi, a hammock or a Mountain Man shelter - These are classic Old West Experiences! So much giggling going on....

Are meals provided? Yes

Is Wildhorse Ranch technology free? Yes We have a no cell phone policy. Phones interfere with the socializing and interactions that are a big part of being at camp. Camp is for developing face to face communication skills, enhancing confidence and increasing resiliency.
Property Details

Sports facilities

Horseback Riding Arena (indoor/outdoor)

Landscape

Forested Area
Lake/Pond/River
Nature Trails
Open Field

More details about property: Wildhorse Ranch borders on wild land so we often see deer, coyotes, foxes, moose, and lots of bird life. We are an outdoor based camp where we love being in nature! We let you experience and feel The Spirit of the Old West, when life happened at a slower pace and technology did not rule the world. Come feel the difference! Lets Live! Campers enjoy our large fire-pit area and have great conversations at the campfire while roasting marshmallows! Our trail rides go through unique areas like: The Dragon Forest, The Park, The Horseshoe Forest, The Enchanted Forest and we often walk through the Fairy Forest & pick up unique craft sticks that have dropped off the trees.
Rentals & Services

Offers children's birthday party packages: Yes
Birthday Party packages can be with or without horses. We can facilitate a Horse lovers party focused on games with and about horses! We have a large campfire area where you can cook food over the fire, picnic tables, rustic cabins if you want an overnight event and lots of natural areas to play games, go for a hike, look for bugs/toads/frogs and other fun stuff :) Contact us for details, Parties vary from 2 hours to 2 days.

Offers outdoor education program for schools or corporate groups: Yes
List of Possibilities for a Leadership and Skills Development/Outdoor Education Camps Touch the Earth©: • Experience hands on activities in a peaceful, natural setting • Learn about animal tracks & signs on an interactive hike to Thunder Lake • Practice patience while sitting in a talking circle and then use communication skills when its your turn to tell your story • Let the earth seep into your soul as you sit in the grass and listen to Bear the storyteller • Build your connection to the earth by participating in different activities involving our horse herd and the land. Living History: • Enhance tactile skills & senses by touching hides from beaver, coyote, buffalo, elk, rabbit and more • Increase your understanding of how first nation people/mountain men survived by watching and listening to a demonstration about snares and traps • Experience what it’s like to live as a community, sharing the events of the day around the Evening Campfire. Learning Leadership Through Horsemanship: • Before we start the horse program everyone goes through our “Safety Lesson”. This covers the basics of safe handling of horses on the ground and in the saddle. • Experiential and educational, incorporating confidence building, self-empowerment and skills development. • Practice communication, cooperation, connection and compromise – critical skills when working with horses and humans! • Learning to read energy is an important life skill and dealing with horses helps you understand/see and practice how to move energy • Explore new opportunities on the ground with a horse: by taking risks and trying things you wouldn’t ordinarily do, it will help increase self-esteem. Learning is a matter of trial and error.

Available for private rentals: Yes
Our facility has 9 cabins that sleep 4 each, 4 Cowboy tipi's, 3 Whelan Shelters, 20 2 man tents, a Cowboy Bunkhouse that has running water and power that sleeps 12 in bunk bed style dorms, big firepit area, access to bird watching on Thunder Lake, land based learning in our forests and fields, small meeting room, meditation area, Spirit Dancer Lodge, all rental is based on what you require so please contact us for specific details
What's New
Director's Message

Diane Baker, Owner and Director
B.Ed., Certified EAL Facilitator, Coach and Guide

I am truly passionate about sharing my insight and knowledge from my thirty plus years of working with horses, women, and girls. My mission has always been to inspire them to walk the path of ultimate fulfillment, and to reach for their highest potential by creating soul-aligned connections, investing in themselves, and doing what they love because it always pays off. Success comes to those who dedicate everything to their passion in life. This is mine! Come ride and Learn with me. Our herd of 50 personable and colorful geldings will make your stay amazing!

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In the News

January 7, 2022
U of Alberta Nursing - celebrating nursing student-athlete
Cara Park was honored by the U of Alberta Nursing faculty. Cara is a proud member of the U. of Alberta Panda’s Soccer team... Read More

January 7, 2022
Long time campers recently graduate with D.VM and MD
Twins, Kirsten and Hailey spent many years first as campers and then counsellors at our summer and winter horse camps. ... Read More
Stories

Whisper and Mackie and their Life Long Friendship!
Stories of the Wildhorse Herd:

These two lovely geldings have been part of our herd for 3 years now, they are in their 20's and have been together for most of their lives so they are "attached to each other". Let me set the stage for today's story, they are always together, where one goes so goes the other. We have never had two horses share a food bowl but these two willingly share with each other all the time! I have been giving extra feed every day to 9 horses in the "pampered pony pen" - for a variety of reasons ( stories for another day), however we had our waterer freeze up so I had to turn most of them out back into the big herd... Mackie and Whisper were part of the extra feed group and I hated to put them back out but no water is not a good thing. However, today Mackie (who always whickers at me whenever I am out in the field or anywhere in the yard) left his friend Whisper and came up to the main gate and called me. I realized he really needed extra feed to I brought him up to the barn and gave him a bowl of his favorite foods and then I brought him a big pile of hay (plus a bucket of water). I thought Whisper would be OK out in the front field with the rest of the herd....
At feeding time we could not see Whisper so we went on a search and we found him standing in the forest, head down, all sad and despondent... he was standing where he last was with Mackie...
I caught him and brought him up to the barn, Mackie saw him coming and his head came up out of the hay and he gave his friend a big whinny of welcome! Whisper on the other hand gave a half grunt/whinny that was more like "where have you been, I've been worried sick because I could not find you! You could have let me know you were leaving..
Needless to say when I left them they were standing shoulder to shoulder, heads down enjoying the hay pile! Lesson learned: Next time I will take both of them!💖💖💖
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