In 1977, Y.O. Adventure Camp was established to accommodate those who wanted their children to experience Y.O. Ranch life. In 1999 a brand new camping experience involving horsemanship, roping, working cattle and "the cowboy way" was introduced as the newest adventure: Cowboy Camp. The old saying, "You don't know where you're going unless you know where you've been", has never been more poignant than in today's society. Y.O. Ranch Cowboy Camp is an extension of the Schreiner family's vision to promote a forgotten way of life by sharing it with children. Our goal is to reconnect Cowboy Camp participants with a simpler time: when the sound of hoof beats, the smell of saddle leather, the sight of a dusty pair of boots, and the feel of your horse carrying you home were ideal reminders of a day well spent.
Basic Camp begins with an introduction to horses and horsemanship safety. Each child is assigned a horse for the week and assumes responsibility for its care. The campers learn grooming, saddling, and safety and respect for the horse. Then, in basic horsemanship, campers practice a series of exercises designed to teach a rider how to get on and stay in balance, moving with his or her horse, referred to as the "Secure Seat" method, a proven safety tool developed by the American Association of Horsemanship Safety. Once the groundwork basics are established, campers demonstrate control by maneuvering their horses around obstacles. The rest of the week is spent on trails that wind through 40,000 acres-worth of Texas hill country beauty, including an overnight ride into one of our many pastures.
Other pieces of cowboy wisdom are also introduced, such as goat tying and calf roping, as well as short sessions on different riding equipment, basic horse conformation, identifying equine illnesses and lameness, outdoor cooking and wilderness survival skills. Campers also receive a cowboy history lesson in the branding and the story of brands, testing their skills with an afternoon of paint branding. This is unanimously the camper's favorite part of their stay! With ropes and dust flying, the kids are in their element! On the last day of camp, campers are ready to show off newfound skills during the closing day show with an audience of parents to cheer them on
In the Advanced Cowboy Camp sessions, campers enjoy the same activities experienced in our Basic Cowboy Camp, but with a more in-depth focus designed to refine existing skills. Campers coming to these sessions need to have a fairly extensive riding background, or be a return camper. All advanced campers will spend time learning advanced riding techniques and working cattle.
Session 3 (All Star Week) Cowboy Camp is now designed for all returning Cowboy Campers. Pick up where you left off from Basic CC and refine your skills for Advanced Camp. Also, to start a lifelong friendships and bonds with other campers.
Junior Wrangler School - Has now been added in 2012 for ages 15-17. A two week school In cooperation with the American Association for Horsemanship Safety. Curriculum for this school is to teach the student the ins and outs of being a certified wrangler. With the hope the student can get a job as a wrangler at a Dude Ranch, Camp, or any kind of equine facility at the age of 18. Student will spend two weeks in camp at school. A summer at the YOAC as a Junior Wrangler. Completion of this will earn the student a certificate though AAHS.
Basic Cowboy Camp
Session 1 June 10-16
Session 2- June 17-23
Cost for the camp is $1195.00
Non Refundable Deposit $250.00
Cowboy Camp
**ALL STAR WEEK**
Session 3- June 24-30
Cost for the camp is $1195.00
Non Refundable Deposit $250.00
Advanced Cowboy Camp
Session 4- July 8-14
Cost for the camp is 1350.00
Non Refundable Deposit $250.00
Junior Wrangler School
July 15-27
Cost for the camp is $1995.00
Non Refundable Deposit $500.00
***Discounts available if registered by February 28, 2012***
There is a little cowboy or cowgirl in all of us. So, no matter what your skill level, there is a Y.O. Ranch Cowboy Camp designed for you. Please call for more details. To reserve your spot, contact Y.O. Adventure Camp at 830-640-3220 or e-mail us at info@yoadventurecamp.com.
