Horses at Sugar Creek Bible Camp
Horses have been woven into the very fabric of Sugar Creek Bible Camp for generations. From guiding wagon rides through the valley to providing unforgettable pony and horse rides for nearly every camper, these majestic animals have played a vital role in creating cherished memories.
The horse program began in a humble tobacco barn, part of the original Farm that became Sugar Creek Bible Camp in 1966. But in 2010, through your generosity during the Focus for the Future campaign, Sugar Creek was able to build a dedicated Horse Stable. This new facility allowed the horse programs to flourish, offering even more opportunities for campers and guests to connect with these incredible creatures.
In 2022, Sugar Creek hired a Barn Manager, ensuring that the long-standing horse programs continue to thrive. Today, horses remain at the heart of the Sugar Creek experience, embodying the spirit of adventure and connection that defines our camp.
At Sugar Creek Bible Camp, retreat and rental groups can book seasonal Trail Rides, Wagon Rides, and Pony Rides, providing unique ways to explore your beautiful valley and bluffs. Whether you’re looking for a serene trail ride, hosting a birthday party with pony rides, or a fun-filled wagon ride, our programs cater to all ages and skill levels.
- Trail Rides: $55 per rider, a maximum of 6 riders per trail ride, and a maximum of 5 trail rides daily. The minimum cost per trail ride is $150. Trail Rides are approximately a 1.5-hour experience.
- Wagon Rides: $100 per hour, up to 2 hours a day, a maximum of 8 persons per ride, each wagon ride is approximately 20-30 minutes.
- Pony Rides: $100 for 1 hour, maximum of 2 hours a day, $40 for each additional pony (based on staff availability).
- Custom Experiences: Please inquire with the camp office about building a custom equine experience with activities like “paint my pony” and grooming the horses available. Indoor and outdoor spaces are available to rent for scouts and youth groups, family reunions, or birthday parties.
For availability and further information, please contact the camp office at (608) 734-3113 or email at office@sgrcreek.org.
During the summer, campers in nearly every program will have the chance to experience time with the beloved horses. Whether it’s an overnight on the bluff or some time at the barn grooming ponies, these interactions are a highlight of the camp experience. For more details on how horses are integrated into the summer programs, visit the Summer Camp page.
By adopting a Sugar Creek Bible Camp Horse with an annual gift of $100+, you sponsor the care of one of the camp horses of your choosing. Each adoption tier level comes with a photo of the horse and a certificate of participation. Additionally, with an annual gift of $100 or more, you’ll become a member of the Pioneer Club, which includes an invitation to the Pioneer Dinner each June. Your support helps ensures the herd continues to create cherished memories for campers year after year.
Friend $100-199 – Photo of Horse, Participation Certificate, Pioneer Club Membership.
Caregiver $200-399 – Above and quarterly updates of the horse by Barn Manager Miranda.
Advocate $400-599 – Above and a private 1 hour trail ride for 4.
Champion $600+ – Above and Recognition on the Sugar Creek Website and a Private Barn Tour and one night cabin stay for 4.
If the horse is retired or moves to another barn before the 12 months of adoption are complete, your sponsorship will move to another available horse of your choosing. By increasing your adoption gift, the funds will go towards additional care needs of the horses including improvements to the horse barn and pastures.
Questions? Contact the camp office at (608)734-3113 or office@sgrcreek.org.
The herd requires a lot of care, you can help by volunteering your time and skills. No horse experience required! There are various opportunities, including wintering horses, grooming, and barn maintenance. Your help is invaluable in ensuring the horses are well cared for year-round. To get involved, please contact the camp office at (608) 734-3113 and ask for Barn Manager, Miranda Arelt. Your contribution will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our horses and the campers who love them.
A unique and engaging way for your congregation to support the beloved camp horses! People can fill a square on a horse poster, symbolizing their contribution. Every filled square helps us provide the necessary care, feed, and facilities for the horses, ensuring they remain a cherished part of the camp experience.
Request a poster or more information to office@sgrcreek.org
You can also support the Horse Program by donating new or gently used tack, horse supplies, or even child-friendly trail horses. The horse barn also accepts donations of hay, transportation can be provided if local. If you’re interested in making a donation, please contact our camp office at (608) 734-3113 and ask for Barn Manager Miranda Arelt to start the conversation.
Meet the Herd!
Autumn
Pony
Meet Autumn, the grandma of the herd! With wisdom in her eyes and a heart full of love, she watches over her fellow ponies and the little campers she adores carrying around. Don’t let her age fool you—this wise old mare still has plenty of spirit and loves hitting the trail now and then. She’s the perfect mix of sweet and sassy! Champion: Open
Bjorn
Fjord
Bjorn is a lovable, silly character. With his smooth moves on the trail, he's like butter on hot toast! And when it comes to effort, he's always at the top of his game. Bjorn is ready to hit the trails with you. Champion: Open
Cricket
Quarter Horse
Who doesn't adore Cricket? She's always game for a wild adventure in the arena or even a leisurely ride on the trail. This sweet mare has a reputation for noshing on snacks along the way - after all, even cowgirls need their treats! Champion: Open
Dillion
Quarter Horse
Dillion is big and gorgeous and he knows it! Dillion is a talented horse and loves to show off his canter in the pasture. He can be single minded, especially in his pursuit of treats. It is no surprise he is a favorite amongst the barn wranglers. Champion: Open
Drifter
Quarter Horse
Get ready to meet Drifter, the young buck with a personality that shines brighter than the sun! As one of the youngest in the herd, he's still got some learning to do. But, oh my, is he a trailblazer in charming his counselors! Despite his youth, Drifter's been known to kick back and relax with his posse instead of hitting the dusty trail. Who can blame him? Champion: Open
Dusty
Quarter Horse
Dusty Rose is as sassy and fancy as they come! She is a wonderful horse on the trail and in the training arena. While named for her smokey buckskin color, Dusty avoids being groomed! But she loves scratches and other attention. Champion: Open
Gary Pablo
Saddlebred
Meet Gary Pablo, the newest addition to our herd! This four-legged superstar has got trail skills and a personality that's guaranteed to make you giggle. Our team of Wranglers is already head over hooves for this guy and can't wait to introduce him to campers! Champion: Open
Gus
Fjord
Meet Gus, the ultimate loveable goof! He's the kind of horse who goes with the flow, making him the perfect partner for trail rides. But don't be fooled by his chill vibe, when it comes to arena time, he can be a total bulldozer, crushing cones like it's nobody's business. Champion: Open
Josie
Tennessee Walker
Josie is new to the Sugar Creek herd and is a beautiful addition. She is a loveable horse who has a unique strut. As a Tennessee Walker, Josie has a unique 4-beat gait that sure is flashy. She is sure to be a favorite on the trail! Champion: Open.
Missy
Red Bay
Missy, oh Missy! This horse is a mystery wrapped in an enigma! She's got more talents than a circus performer, and she's not afraid to show them off. Her style on the trails is like a fashion runway, and when she hits the arena, it's like a superstar on stage. Some say she must have been a dressage pony in her past life! Champion: Open
Paint
Bay Paint
Meet Paint, the ultimate trail buddy! With his gentle spirit and easygoing nature, he's a top pick among campers. Whether you're a first-time rider or a seasoned pro, Paint's got your back, making every trail ride a fun and memorable adventure. He's the horse that everyone wants to hang out with! Champion: Open
Per
Fjord
Per, the speedy Fjord, never takes a break! This lovable horse is always ready to gallop to the next adventure. Whether it's a trail ride with campers or showing off in the arena, Per is the top pick. Champion: Open
Sage
Mini Horse
Meet Sage, one of the smaller horses at camp, who's a total fan of pony rides. When he's not busy making the little Sugar Creek campers smile, he's often found giving you those irresistible puppy eyes in exchange for yummy treats. Champion: Open
Shawnee
Bay Paint
Meet Shawnee, the retired queen of trail rides! Even though she's hung up her saddle, she still craves the spotlight and loves meeting campers. You can catch her giving saddle demos or just chilling with her buddies. Champion: Open
Stan and Dan
Team Horses
Stan and Dan are Sugar Creek's Team Horses that pull the Wagon. These draft ponies are strong for their size. This bonded pair are both Haflingers and love to provide wagon rides to campers of all ages. Stan Champion: Open. Dan Champion: Open.
Star
Mini Horse
Meet Star, the teeny-tiny horse who packs a whole lot of sass! She's got a personality as lively as her appetite for snacks and snuggles. Though she may be small, she's got a big spirit and loves to stand out from the herd! Champion: Open
Tango
Hackney Pony
Tango is the resident drama king, always eager to steal the spotlight with his flashy moves and big personality. But give him some tasty treats or a few head scratches, and you'll see his softer side! Champion: Open
The Donkeys
Hiccup, Petrie, Maizee
The Barn has more than just horses, 3 donkeys also call it home! The most vocal of the herd, the Sugar Creek donkeys are always up for fun. You can spot them playing with their toy rubber balls and always being curious.
