Equestrian

Calleva’s Horse Adventure Programs (CHAPs) specialize in beginner to intermediate instruction. We offer a wide variety of programming, including:

Advanced riders can take advantage of our wide-ranging facilities (indoor & outdoor arenas and access to trails along the Potomac and C&O Canal).

Our philosophy is very holistic and hands-on. Our goals are to instill confidence while riding and understanding while caring for the horses. Students are taught to groom, muck, feed, lead, and handle our horses. Take a look at the rich heritage of our CHAPs program here.

As with all Calleva programs, our teaching style is energetic and lively; and designed so the rider leaves our barn empowered and thirsty for more — Giddy-Up!

Back in the Saddle 18+

This unique class is designed for adults, especially parents of riders, who are interested in learning (or returning to) horseback riding in a low-stress environment.

Whether you’ve never been on a horse before or it’s been years since you last rode, our instructors are excited to help you experience the joy of horsemanship firsthand.

During this 2 hour program, participants will:

• Learn the basics of horseback riding and horse care
• Experience the therapeutic benefits of horse and outdoor time
• Develop balance, coordination, and riding technique
• Gain a deeper appreciation for what your child is learning each week

No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to try something new!

Classes offered seasonally, join our Back in the Saddle Email List to stay tuned for more:

Events & Groups

Girl Scout Programs

Girl Scout programs run on Sundays from 2:00pm – 5:00pm as well as select Saturdays.

Our program is 3 hours long and consists of horse care/grooming practice, a riding lesson (in the arena practicing basic skills such as position and steering), and an unmounted lesson such as a farm tour or opportunity to learn about other horse topics. Students may also turn out the horses to pasture at the end of the session (considering time is left!) and participate in barn chores to wrap-up, which allows them to appreciate the full experience of a day at the barn! Our Girl Scout program does qualify your troop to earn their “Junior Horseback Riding Badge”.

We require a minimum of 8 riders and a maximum of 15. For larger troops, we can book two separate dates. Riders must be 7 years old and up and weight limit is 180lbs. Our farm address where the program takes place is 19120 Martinsburg Road, Dickerson, MD 20842.

Based on availability. Contact chaps@calleva.org to schedule.

Birthday Parties

Ages 2-6

For our young riders, we offer Pony Picnics style birthday parties!

These run on weekends, mainly Sunday afternoons as well as select Saturday afternoons. The program is 1 hour long and allows participants the opportunity to groom the horses and go for a pony ride!

$45 per rider – 8+ riders required – weight limit 180lbs.

Independent use of our outdoor space is allowed for an additional 30 minutes after the supervised session for cake and gifts. Bring your own party decorations/supplies/food/beverage.

Based on availability. Contact chaps@calleva.org to schedule.

Ages 7+

Birthday Parties run on Sunday afternoons from 2:00pm – 4:30pm as well as select Saturdays. This 2-hour long program rotates between a riding lesson and a craft or horse related unmounted activity. Indoor room and fridge available for party hosts.

$65 per rider – 8 – 10 riders required – weight limit is 180lbs.

Independent use of outdoor space is allowed for an additional 30 minutes after the supervised session for cake and gifts. Bring your own party decorations/supplies/food/beverage. 

Based on availability. Contact chaps@calleva.org to schedule.

Contact Us

Questions? We are here to help!