About the Duberstein Equestrian Center
South Mountain YMCA Camps offer many opportunities for the riding enthusiast! Since 1948, the Ken Duberstein Equestrian Center has been the site for generations of riders to develop their skills and strengthen their passion for the sport. Today, seasonally our horses are out on the trails and in the ring with beginner to advanced riders.
Summer Equestrian Camps
For more information on our equestrian camps, read about our specialty horseback riding camp and weekly sessions.
Horseback Riding in Camp Conrad Weiser & Bynden Wood
We believe that every camper should have the chance to ride a horse. Our youngest Bynden Wood Day Campers and campers in our Explorer program at Camp Conrad Weiser, will all have a pony ride.
All campers ages 7 and up, in Bynden Wood or Conrad Weiser, may sign up for English riding lessons which consist of 5, 1-hour lessons throughout the course of the week. Campers who are truly passionate about horses, can spend their entire day at the barn in one of our Riding Specialty Camps (noted above).
Seasonal Equestrian Opportunities
- Pony Parties (Seasonally)
- English Horse Riding Lessons
- Certified Horsemanship Association Standard Clinic
- Scouting Badge Clinics
Community Riding Lessons – 2026
5 Week Group Lessons – $165
5 Week Private Lessons – $250
Experience the Joy of Horseback Riding at Duberstein Equestrian Center
Heather McCarty, with over 35 years of equestrian experience, offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced riding lessons for all ages. Whether you’re a first-time rider, a returning equestrian, or looking to advance your skills, we provide a whole-horse experience that includes:
- Horse handling and groundwork
- Grooming, saddling, and bridling
- Walk/trot basics for beginners
- Advanced techniques, including cantering, jumping, and show preparation
Our carefully selected calm and steady horses are patient and experienced teachers, making them perfect partners for riders of all levels.
Why Ride With Us?
- Boost Confidence & Coordination – Horseback riding enhances balance, strength, and self-assurance.
- Enjoy the Outdoors – Step away from screens and experience the beauty of nature on our 550-acre property, complete with woods, trails, a cross-country jump course, a 200 x 100 show arena, and a smaller 80 x 100 riding ring.
- Private & Group Lessons – Choose individual instruction for focused learning or enjoy the camaraderie of group lessons, where multiple skill levels can progress together.
Lesson Levels – Assessed During Your First Session
- Beginner – Less than 10 hours of saddle time
- Novice – Can steer at a walk and posting trot
- Intermediate – Confident handling horses independently and working on cantering
- Advanced – Focus on jumping, dressage, or trail riding
Every lesson includes grooming, saddling, riding skills, and post-ride care, with safety and confidence-building as our top priorities.
Spring 2026 Lessons start April 6
Group Riding Lessons:
- Monday – Thursday 4:30 – 7:00 PM
- Saturday 3:30 – 4:30 PM
Private Lessons:
- Sunday 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Family group lessons are also available! Contact us for details.
Ready to ride?
