The 4-H Overnight Horse Camp at 4-H Camp Alamo engaged 34 youth ages 6-16 from across Nevada, supported by 12 adult volunteers. Participants included 5 male youth and 29 female youth. The camp welcomed both returning participants and youth who were new to the overnight horse camp experience. In 2025, this camp was offered and had 18 participants ranging in age from 5-17 years of age.
The program also expanded its geographic reach, welcoming new campers from the White Pine County/Ely area and the Pahrump area, in addition to youth from Southern Nevada (Clark and Lincoln Counties). This growing participation demonstrates the potential for the overnight horse camp to connect youth from across Nevada through their shared interest in horses and animal science.
Experiential Learning and Program Design
The 4-H Overnight Horse Camp was designed as a four-day, progressive hands-on learning experience combining equine education, youth development, physical activity, leadership, and community building. Each day intentionally built upon the skills and experiences of the previous day.
Day 1 - Community & Responsibility
Youth arrived with their horses and immediately began taking responsibility for their animals' care and settling into camp. Activities included safety and camp orientation, team-building icebreakers, a Horse Quiz Bowl, and a pre-program survey. Youth also began developing independence by adjusting to cabin life and spending time away from home.
Day 2 - Foundation Skills
Youth focused on foundational horsemanship, safe horse handling, riding skills, showmanship, and equine nutrition. Daily feeding, watering, grooming, and horse-care responsibilities reinforced that animal care is a consistent responsibility. Crafts, horse-treat making, and a campfire provided additional opportunities for creativity and relationship building.
Day 3 - Western Skills & Real-World Learning
Youth advanced their Western riding and showmanship skills while participating in a photography workshop and a tour of Cannon Ranch. A service-learning activity connecting youth with deployed horse units encouraged gratitude and civic engagement. The day concluded with a sunset trail ride, allowing youth to apply their skills in a new environment while practicing communication, awareness, and trust.
Day 4 - Challenge & Skill Demonstration
Youth applied the skills developed throughout camp through obstacle courses, flags, mounted games, horse bathing, and the Horse Olympics. These activities challenged participants to problem-solve, communicate with their horses, adapt to unfamiliar situations, and demonstrate confidence and horsemanship skills. Evaluations and recognition activities concluded the camp.
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