FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Helping you find the right information about our horse riding lessons, summer camps, and equestrian programs in Petaluma and beyond.

General Questions

  • We offer a variety of programs, including:

    • Beginner to advanced riding lessons

    • Youth and adult riding programs

    • Summer camp (riding camp, ranch camp)

    • Winter camp

    • Competitive training, including IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association

  • We are located in Petaluma, California, serving riders across Sonoma County and Marin County.

  • We welcome riders ages 6 and up, from beginners to experienced equestrians.

  • No, you do not need your own horse. We provide well-trained lesson horses suitable for all skill levels.

    • Long pants or riding breeches

    • Boots with a heel (no sneakers or sandals)

    • Helmet

Summer Camp at Strides Riding Academy

  • At Strides Riding Academy, we offer two exciting summer camp options:

    ✅ Riding Camp – Perfect for horse lovers who want hands-on experience with riding! Campers will enjoy daily riding lessons, horsemanship activities, grooming, tack care, and fun equine-related games. This camp is great for beginners and experienced riders alike.

    ✅ Ranch Camp – A unique non-riding camp experience focused on horse care, farm life, and ranch activities. Campers will learn about feeding, handling, groundwork, grooming, and how to care for horses while engaging in outdoor ranch adventures.

    Both camps provide a fun, and educational environment where campers build confidence, responsibility, and a deeper appreciation for horses.

  • You can register online at Summer at Strides or contact us for more details.

  • No prior experience is needed! We welcome beginners and experienced riders alike.

  • ✅ Riding Camp Packing List:

    • riding helmet

    • Boots with a heel (paddock boots or cowboy boots—no sneakers or sandals)

    • Riding-appropriate clothing (leggings or riding breeches, no shorts)

    • Gloves (optional but recommended for grip and comfort)

    • Water bottle (labeled with the camper’s name)

    • Sunscreen (apply before arrival and bring extra)

    • Lunch & snacks

    • Extra change of clothes (just in case!)

    ✅ Ranch Camp Packing List: (Non-riding camp)

    • Closed-toe shoes or boots (no flip-flops or sandals)

    • Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (clothes that can get dirty)

    • Hat & sunscreen for sun protection

    • Water bottle (labeled with the camper’s name)

    • Lunch & snacks

    • Notebook & pen (for fun ranch-related activities)

    We recommend labeling all personal items to avoid mix-ups. If you have any questions about what to bring, feel free to contact us!

Competitive & Specialized Programs

Lessons & Policies

  • Most lessons last 45 minutes to 1 hour, including mounted riding and horsemanship skills.

  • We require at least 24-hour notice for cancellations to avoid being charged for the missed lesson.

  • Yes, we have a designated viewing area where parents can observe their child’s lesson.