best horse-back programs in Mountain Rest, SC

For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.

At the Lynnwood Equestrian Center, families can enjoy a family-friendly experience in Fort Mill, S.C. The center is owned by Terilynn and Matt Storey, a local horse veterinarian. Conveniently located just two miles from 521 and seven miles from the Ballantyne area, the center is situated on 25 beautiful acres. The Lynnwood Equestrian Center features a 20 stall barn with 12x12 stalls and stall mats, as well as two tack rooms and a wash bay area with hot and cold water. For riding, there is a 220x140 arena with outdoor lights and multipurpose footing. Horses are turned out in small groups of 6-8 for their safety and comfort. Coming in Spring 2017, the center will also feature a covered arena. Families looking for a horse-friendly experience will find the Lynnwood Equestrian Center to be an ideal location. Whether you’re looking to board your horses, take riding lessons, or just enjoy a day with the family, the Lynnwood Equestrian Center offers a safe, family-friendly atmosphere. With its convenient location and beautiful facilities, the center is sure to be an enjoyable experience for all.

In 1956, Nield Gordon and Everette Pigg, former roommates and basketball teammates at Furman University, had a vision to open their own boys’ camp. They found the perfect spot in the Blue Ridge foothills of Mountain Rest, SC: 60 acres of farm land surrounded by the Sumter National Forest. They purchased the property and named it Camp Chatuga, after the nearby Chattooga River and Chattooga Ridge. The farmhouse on the property became the camp dining hall, and, to this day, is the only original building still standing. The cornfield became the lake, and the old apple orchard became the tennis and basketball courts. The camp also pays homage to the Cherokee Indians with the name, which is adapted from the Creek word “Tsa-tu-ge”, meaning “we crossed here.” Camp Chatuga has been around for over 60 years, and continues to be a place of inspiration and learning for young boys. Through the vision of two former college roommates, Camp Chatuga remain a place of growth, fun, and friendship for children today.

Anne Springs Close Greenway was opened to the public in 1995, thanks to the vision of local conservationist Anne Springs Close. Spanning over 2,100 acres, the land is protected in perpetuity via a conservation easement with the Nation Ford Land Trust, ensuring the Steele Creek watershed is never developed beyond low-impact recreation. As an arm of Leroy Springs & Co., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1938, the Greenway is dedicated to providing fundamental access to recreation and education in the region of the historic Springs Cotton Mills. It is part of a family of brands that is committed to providing affordable outdoor recreation, education, and wellness opportunities for all.

For over 15 years, kids of all ages have been able to take advantage of this amazing resource, with over 2,100 acres of preserved land to explore. Greenway Summer Camps offer a chance for kids to get off the couch and into nature. From biking and fishing to kayaking and hiking, kids can get a full summer of exploration and adventure. With Greenway’s massive 2,100 acres of land, there’s no limit to the possibilities. Kids can break away from their screens and explore the great outdoors with Greenway Summer Camps. With over 15 years of experience, Greenway offers a vast network of trails, rivers, and ponds to explore, giving kids a summer full of adventure and exploration.

. Camp Bob Cooper is the perfect summer getaway for 4-H Campers. Nestled on a 110-acre peninsula on beautiful Lake Marion, the camp provides a safe and nurturing environment for campers to explore and grow. With air-conditioned dorms, a full-service dining facility, waterfront area with multiple docks and a water slide, gymnasium, nature trails, and a climbing tower, 4-H campers will have a unique and exciting experience. Not only will they have the opportunity to create lasting friendships, but they will also be challenged by our highly qualified staff to develop character and build self-confidence through individualized attention. With a 8:1 counselor ratio, campers will have plenty of opportunities to reach outside of their comfort zone and have the best summer ever.

Camp WaBak has been providing girls with unforgettable experiences since 1949. Camp WaBak provides an outdoor experience like no other. Nestled in the beautiful mountains near Jones Gap State Park, and just above Marietta, SC, Camp WaBak is the perfect place to for girls to explore the outdoors and make friends. Girls entering first through twelfth grade can choose from programs up to two weeks long, and will gain invaluable leadership skills, explore the outdoors, and create lifelong memories. Camp WaBak has been a favorite among generations of campers since its launch in 1949.

Eden Farms is the perfect spot for horse lovers in Upstate, SC. Just a short drive from Greenville, SC, this family-owned horse stable offers horse boarding, lessons, and trail rides on 160 acres of rolling fields and trails in the beautiful mountains. Plus, the barn includes 40 stalls, tack rooms, and office and event space, making it the perfect spot for birthday parties and special events. At Eden Farms, they also host seasonal events around the holidays to benefit Happy Hooves Therapeutic Equestrian Center. This non-profit organization provides horse-centered programs for special needs children and adults, as well as at-risk children and teens. Participants of the program develop an exceptionally rewarding relationship with the horses, which can benefit mind, body, and spirit. All proceeds from Eden Farms go to support the Happy Hooves program, and you can even make a donation right from the farm. Eden Farms is the proud home of Happy Hooves Therapeutic Equestrian Center, where special needs individuals and at-risk children can benefit from the therapeutic power of horses in a safe, supportive environment. The horses provide a unique opportunity for these individuals to build meaningful relationships with the animals, and for the participants to learn about responsibility and respect. Thanks to the generosity of Eden Farms donors, the Happy Hooves program can continue to provide these services to those who need them most.

The 628th Force Support Squadron is dedicated to providing the best quality of life and combat capabilities to the Air Force and its members. They provide a range of services, including force development, resource management, manpower and personnel, family readiness, child and youth development, and morale, welfare and recreation (MWR) programs. These services are available to over 80,000 active duty personnel, their families, retirees, DOD civilians, and reservists, both on the airbase and weapons station and when deployed around the world. The squadron is committed to providing the highest quality services to the Air Force and its members, enabling them to fulfill their mission of national security.

. At Leg Up Equestrian, we make sure campers of all ages and levels have the opportunity to learn, progress, and grow. Our comprehensive year-round Horseback Riding Lesson Program, Horsemanship Clinics, School Shows, and Summer Camps provide students of all ages and abilities with the chance to make lasting memories with our horses and fellow riders. With the support of our experienced instructors, campers are able to learn the fundamentals of English riding, progress in their skills, and end the week with a real mini-horse show.

At Camp Cole, we strive to provide a safe and supportive environment for children and adults with serious illnesses, disabilities, and other challenges. Our goal is to ensure that each individual is able to benefit from the camp experience, regardless of their physical or emotional limitations. We are dedicated to creating a fun and creative atmosphere where campers can feel free to express themselves and explore their potential. We are proud to offer a variety of activities that help campers build self-confidence, develop social skills, and foster independence. From arts and crafts to sports and swimming, Camp Cole offers a range of activities that help campers learn new skills and foster personal growth. Our experienced staff are trained to provide personalized support, so that campers can feel comfortable and have fun while at camp.

The team at Pony Gang Camp is committed to helping children develop self-confidence, self-awareness and self-acceptance. With wholesome role models and activities that challenge and interest every camper, this camp provides a safe and secure environment for children to learn and grow. The team is dedicated to providing a unique and enjoyable experience for children, one that will stay with them for a lifetime. At Pony Gang Camp, all campers have an opportunity to explore, create, and learn. With a wide range of activities, including riding, games, arts and crafts, and so much more, children can have fun while building self-confidence and self-awareness. The experienced and caring staff members are dedicated to helping children feel accepted and appreciated so they can be their best selves.