Sisters, Saddles & Summer Magic: Inside Girls Horse Camp at Wild West

At Wild West Campground & Corral’s Girls Horse Camp, the bond between campers and horses is only rivaled by the friendships that blossom under the summer sun. For sisters Mazie and Lauren, camp has become more than just a place to ride – it’s a shared tradition, a confidence-builder and a source of unforgettable memories.

Mazie’s Camper Days: From First Ride to Forever Friendships

Mazie still vividly remembers her first summer at Wild West. She was thirteen, galloping across the pasture with a group of girls who had quickly become close friends.

“It was the first time I’d ever ridden outside of an arena,” she recalled. “Racing through the field with others who loved horses as much as I did—that feeling was unforgettable.”

Her connection to the horses was just as powerful. Little J was her first camp companion, but Nick stole her heart.

“Nick was gentle, responsive and thoughtful,” she said. “I absolutely adored him.”

Beyond the riding, camp helped Mazie grow in ways she never expected.

“It was my first time away from home, and I had to make friends on my own,” she said. “I learned that kindness is everywhere, and I gained so much confidence by adapting to a new environment and riding style.”

Mazie attended four camps before transitioning into a new role—one that would allow her to give back.

 

 

From Camper to Counselor: Mazie’s Full-Circle Moment

Just weeks after her final summer as a camper, Mazie was invited to return as a counselor.

“I said yes because I love the horses and the learning that happens here,” she said. “No matter your experience level, there’s always something new to discover.”

Now, she gets to guide campers through the same transformative experience she once had.

“It’s incredibly special to give back what was once given to me,” she said. “Watching the girls make memories and grow as riders—it’s the best part of my job.”

One tradition she especially loves? Horse assignments.

“As a camper, lining up to find out which horse you’d ride was so exciting,” Mazie recalled. “Now, I get to help make those matches, and it’s even more fun.”

The last two summers have been extra meaningful for Mazie as her younger sister Lauren joined camp, and the two get to share the experience in a whole new way.

Lauren’s Camp Adventure: Riding with Heart

Lauren returned to Wild West this year with one big reason: “My sister was going to be my counselor, and I thought it would be really fun,” she exclaimed.

Her favorite horse, AJ, is a gentle soul.

“He’s kind to the other horses and sweet to me,” she said. “He’s chill and always listens. He’s the perfect fit.”

Lauren’s proudest moment? Trotting solo in the field and experiencing the independent and ecstatic feeling!

Having Mazie as her counselor added a layer of comfort and joy.

“I never feel alone when I’m with her,” Lauren said.

One of her favorite memories was pretending to be a counselor alongside Mazie, greeting new campers in the Ponies bunk room.

And yes, Mazie’s horse wisdom has stuck: “She taught me not to go behind horses—or I might get a tail in my face,” Lauren laughed.

Camp Wisdom & Lasting Joy

Mazie’s advice to nervous first-time campers is simple but powerful: “Everyone here is supporting you and wants to see you succeed,” she explained. “You can trust the people here to take care of you and cheer you on.”

She encourages independence, knowing that trust between horse and rider is built in quiet moments. It’s in those in-between times that girls bond with their horses and begin to believe in themselves, she said.

Her favorite moment this summer? Blind karaoke and Just Dance night.

“The girls sang and danced for hours, and their energy was so infectious my co-workers and I had to join in,” she said. “It was one of those magical nights you know you’ll remember forever.”

As for Lauren, she’s already dreaming of next year’s camp—and Jay’s famous sloppy Joe’s. Her dream activity? Nap time. And yes, she hopes to be a counselor like Mazie someday.

Whether galloping across a field or singing under the stars, Mazie and Lauren’s story reminds us that camp is more than just horses—it’s about growing up, giving back and sharing joy with the ones you love.

Experience the magic of Girls Horse Camp at Wild West Campground & Corral for yourselves. Book a spot in an upcoming camp today!