Yay or Neigh? Is Wrangler Camp Right for Your Camper?

Got a horse enthusiast in your life? Then Cali Campā€™s premier Wrangler Camp might just be the mane event of their summer! Nestled in the scenic Santa Monica Mountains of Topanga Canyon, Cali Camp is one of the oldest and most beloved summer day camps in Los Angeles. Established in 1955 (the same year Disneyland opened!), weā€™ve spent nearly 70 years crafting unforgettable experiences for kids.

Why Wrangler Camp Is More Than Just Riding Horses

Summer camp should be more than a way to fill the calendar while schoolā€™s out. Itā€™s a place for kids to try new things, build social-emotional skills, and develop grit and resilience. And if you ask me, thereā€™s no better place for this kind of growth than on horseback. But maybe Iā€™m biased!

Iā€™ve been part of Cali Camp since 2002, starting as the Mustangs Counselor at Wrangler Camp. Over the years, I became a Wrangler Camp Instructor, then the Wrangler Camp Team Leaderā€”working alongside my now-husband, Nick (aka ā€œShredderā€). While my role has evolved, my love for this program remains the same.

Let me tell you why Wrangler Camp might be the perfect fit for your child.

What Makes Wrangler Camp Special?

At Cali Camp, we structure each day with six activity periods. Classic Campers rotate through activities like drama, martial arts, rock climbing, gymnastics, and, of course, horseback riding. Every camper also swims in our beautiful pool daily.

But Wrangler Camp is different. For the first three activity periods of the day, Wrangler Campers focus exclusively on horses. In the afternoon, they join Classic Camp for swimming and two additional activities. This unique schedule creates the perfect blend of focused learning and variety.

A Day in the Life of a Wrangler Camper

At Wrangler Camp, kids donā€™t just ride horsesā€”they learn the full spectrum of horse care. Hereā€™s what theyā€™ll experience:

  • Horse Care Basics: Grooming, feeding, and tacking their horse.

  • Health Check-Ups: Spotting minor injuries and understanding when a horse is unwell.

  • Building Bonds: Recognizing equine body language and learning how horses communicate.

  • Life Lessons: Understanding responsibility, resilience, and empathy through caring for their horse.

Wrangler Campers also discover the emotional side of working with horses. They learn that riding isnā€™t just about techniqueā€”itā€™s about building a relationship with a living, breathing, 1,000-pound teammate. Horses have good days and bad days, just like people. Learning to navigate those ups and downs helps kids develop patience, problem-solving skills, and a deep sense of connection.

Why Wrangler Camp Builds Resilient Kids

Wrangler Camp isnā€™t just about ridingā€”itā€™s about life skills. Campers quickly learn that the horses come first, no matter how tired, hot, or hungry they might feel. These moments teach grit, empathy, and responsibility in ways few other activities can.

And the best part? Most kids donā€™t even realize theyā€™re learning. Theyā€™re too busy soaking up the unconditional love of a horseā€”a loyal, nonjudgmental friend who listens to their secrets and asks for nothing in return except love and care.

Is Wrangler Camp Right for Your Camper?

If your child loves animals, craves adventure, or simply wants to try something new this summer, Wrangler Camp might be the perfect fit. Itā€™s an unforgettable experience that goes far beyond riding lessonsā€”itā€™s a journey of growth, connection, and self-discovery.

Ready to Saddle Up?

Spots for Wrangler Camp are limited and fill up fastā€”donā€™t miss the chance to give your child the summer of a lifetime. Click here to learn more about Wrangler Camp and secure your spot today!

Whether theyā€™re a seasoned horse lover or brand new to the saddle, Wrangler Camp offers something for every camper. We canā€™t wait to welcome your family to the Cali Camp community!

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Why I love to hear my children say ā€œIā€™m Bored!ā€  ~ by Kassandra "Blaze" Wisey