🍀Oak View 4-H Equine Project 🍀

The Oak View 4-H Equine Project is a youth development program that uses equine education to help young people grow in Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, consistent with the 4-H pledge and county 4-H goals. Open to members of all experience levels, the project provides hands-on learning in horse care, safe handling, grooming, nutrition, and basic equine health while emphasizing responsibility, safety, and humane treatment of animals.

Through project meetings, clinics, demonstrations, and experiential learning activities, members build knowledge and critical thinking skills (Head), develop confidence, empathy, and respect for animals and others (Heart), and apply what they learn through practical horsemanship, teamwork, and service activities (Hands). The project promotes healthy lifestyles and outdoor learning (Health) by encouraging physical activity, emotional well-being, and positive connections with animals and the natural environment.

The Oak View 4-H Equine Project also supports county and state 4-H priorities by developing leadership, communication, and goal-setting skills. Members are encouraged to participate in presentations, record books, community service, and county events, fostering civic engagement and a sense of belonging. STEM concepts are integrated through the study of equine anatomy, behavior, nutrition, and management, helping youth apply science-based knowledge in real-world settings.

By combining equine education with the 4-H mission of positive youth development, the Oak View 4-H Equine Project prepares members to become confident leaders, responsible citizens, and compassionate stewards of animals and their communities.

🍀Oak View 4-H Hobby Horse Project 🍀

The Oak View 4-H Hobby Horse Project is an inclusive, youth development–focused program that uses imaginative, hands-on activities to teach horsemanship concepts while supporting the 4-H pledge of Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. Designed to be accessible to youth of all ages and abilities, the project provides a welcoming entry point into equine education without the need to own or ride a live horse.

Through structured play, skill-building exercises, and project-based learning, members explore the fundamentals of horse care, safety, riding patterns, and equine sports while developing creativity, coordination, and confidence. Youth strengthen critical thinking and communication skills (Head), build empathy, sportsmanship, and teamwork (Heart), practice leadership, goal setting, and community engagement (Hands), and promote physical activity and emotional well-being (Health).

The Hobby Horse Project aligns with county 4-H priorities by emphasizing positive youth development, inclusion, and leadership. Members participate in demonstrations, presentations, record books, and county events, gaining public speaking experience and a sense of belonging. STEM concepts are integrated through age-appropriate lessons in biomechanics, anatomy, and pattern design, encouraging problem-solving and observation skills. As an active, outdoor-friendly project, hobby horse activities support healthy lifestyles while fostering creativity and lifelong learning.

By combining imagination with structured learning, the Oak View 4-H Hobby Horse Project builds confidence, leadership, and life skills while making equine education accessible to all youth.

🐴 Pony Camps 🐴

Our pony camps offer more than just fun in the barn—they provide a hands-on educational experience that builds knowledge, confidence, and responsibility while developing essential 21st-century skills. Campers learn the fundamentals of horse care, safe handling, grooming, and tack, while gaining insight into equine behavior, communication, and welfare. Through age-appropriate lessons and guided activities, children strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills.

STEM concepts are naturally integrated as campers explore biology through equine anatomy and health, apply math in feeding and budgeting exercises, and use observation and data collection to understand behavior, nutrition, and environmental care. As an outdoor education program, pony camp encourages environmental awareness, connection to nature, and experiential learning through daily interaction with animals and the farm setting. Our educational component emphasizes safety, teamwork, and humane horsemanship, helping campers form meaningful connections with ponies while building practical, real-world skills that extend far beyond the barn.