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If you’ve always thought of riding camp as a summer activity reserved for pony clubbers and kids – think again! Adult riding camps are growing in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. They offer the perfect opportunity for like-minded equestrians to bond over their shared passion, develop their riding, and make new friends (often for life!).

So, if you’re looking to try something new with your horse next year, why not make an adult riding camp your 2026 equestrian goal? Here are five more great reasons to give it a go.

1. Set (and smash) your goals

Whether your aim is to build confidence in the saddle, improve flatwork, tackle bigger fences, or finally step up to BE100, riding camp gives you the time and structure to focus on you and your horse.

Coaching sessions at a typical Eland Lodge riding camp are run in small groups of four riders, carefully matched by ability and personal goals to ensure high-quality coaching and maximum progress. With expert coaching, supportive trainers, and multiple sessions over a short period, progress often comes faster than in weekly lessons at home.

2. Try something new

Riding camps are the perfect place to step outside your comfort zone. You might try a new discipline, ride different exercises, or work on skills you rarely practise at home. From polework and jumping to flatwork, cross-country, or mindset coaching, camps are designed to broaden your experience and reignite your enthusiasm.

And it’s not all in the saddle! Downtime at camp is often used to provide informative, hands-on sessions – from learning more about feeding to mastering grooming techniques for competitions – giving you practical skills you can take home with you.

3. Make lifelong friends

One of the biggest highlights of adult riding camps is the people. You’ll be surrounded by riders who get it – the early mornings, muddy boots, and unconditional love for horses. Whether you arrive on your own or with friends, you’ll quickly feel part of a supportive, welcoming community that often lasts long after camp ends.

Having hosted camps at Eland Lodge for many years, we often see riders who first met at camp coming back together year after year for their own annual meet-ups.

4. Unplug and reconnect with nature

How often do you get the chance to truly disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in quality time with your horse? Riding camp offers the rare opportunity to slow down, get outdoors, and focus on what really matters.

At Eland Lodge, our camps are set in the beautiful Staffordshire countryside, and everyone is welcome to stay on site in a tent, trailer, or horsebox. You get all the fresh air and freedom of the outdoors – with a few well-earned luxuries thrown in, including posh portable toilets, proper showers, and delicious food. There's even a cosy Shepherd's Hut on site if camping in comfort really is your preference!

5. Press reset and rediscover your love of riding

Between work, family, and everyday responsibilities, it’s easy for riding to feel rushed or routine. Riding camp gives you permission to focus purely on your horse, your riding, and your enjoyment. Many riders leave camp feeling refreshed, motivated, and reminded of exactly why they fell in love with horses in the first place.

Take the Leap with Eland Lodge

We’ve given you plenty to consider, and hopefully inspired you to make 2026 the year you try something new with your horse. If you’re ready to take the next step, read our FAQ’s to discover more about Adult Riding Camp at Eland Lodge.