Frequently Asked
Questions
Therapeutic Riding at Camp Able
Camp Able offers Horsemanship sessions that are carefully designed around each individual student's goals, abilities, and needs. Our program serves individuals with a wide range of diagnoses including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, emotional and behavioral disorders, traumatic brain injury, and many others. Beginner riders learn foundational skills such as mounting and dismounting, turning, stopping, and starting, all of which develop motor skills, cognitive reasoning, and confidence in ways that extend far beyond the arena. As riders progress, sessions become more complex and goal-oriented, always guided by a PATH International certified instructor and supported by trained volunteers who are there every step of the way. No two sessions look exactly the same, because no two riders are exactly the same, and that is exactly the point.
Therapeutic Riding Sessions
Camp Able offers Horsemanship sessions that are carefully designed around each individual student's goals, abilities, and needs. Our program serves individuals with a wide range of diagnoses including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, emotional and behavioral disorders, traumatic brain injury, and many others. Beginner riders learn foundational skills such as mounting and dismounting, turning, stopping, and starting, all of which develop motor skills, cognitive reasoning, and confidence in ways that extend far beyond the arena. As riders progress, sessions become more complex and goal-oriented, always guided by a PATH International certified instructor and supported by trained volunteers who are there every step of the way. No two sessions look exactly the same, because no two riders are exactly the same, and that is exactly the point.
About Our Program
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Therapeutic riding is an equine-assisted activity that uses the movement, rhythm, and relationship of horses to enhance the cognitive, physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of individuals with special needs. Sessions are led by PATH International certified instructors and supported by trained volunteers in a safe, structured environment.
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Camp Able serves individuals with a wide range of special needs and diagnoses including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, traumatic brain injury, emotional and behavioral disorders, and many others. We welcome riders of all ages and abilities. If you are unsure whether our program is right for your loved one, reach out and our team will be happy to talk it through with you.
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The best way to get started is to contact our Program Director Catherine Allen directly at catherinea@camp-able.org. She will walk you through the enrollment process and answer any questions specific to your situation.
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We welcome riders as young as 4 years old. There is no upper age limit. Therapeutic riding is beneficial for children and adults alike, and our instructors are trained to tailor each session to the individual regardless of age.
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Yes. All of our instructors are certified through PATH International, the leading professional body for therapeutic horsemanship. Camp Able is also a PATH International Premier Accredited Center, the highest level of accreditation available, which means our entire facility and program meet rigorous standards for safety and quality.
Sessions & Scheduling
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Sessions are 60 minutes and are scheduled on a weekly basis. Consistency is an important part of what makes therapeutic riding effective, and our team will work with you to find a regular time that fits your schedule.
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Yes. We offer both individual and group sessions throughout the week. We also partner with local school districts to provide services for life-skills classrooms during the spring and fall semesters.
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Riders should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed toe shoes. Long pants are recommended. Our team will provide any additional guidance specific to your rider before their first session.
Cost & Financial Aid
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The ability of a student or family to pay will never prevent a participant from receiving services. Sessions are priced on a sliding scale based on individual circumstances, and scholarships are available. Contact our team for more information about pricing and financial assistance.
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Yes. Camp Able offers scholarships to ensure that cost is never a barrier to access. A full 6-week session scholarship is available for qualifying families. Reach out to our team to learn more about how to apply.
Safety & Requirements
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Weight restrictions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Each horse has an individual weight limit that is upheld to protect the welfare, health, and longevity of our animals. Our team will discuss this with you during the enrollment process.
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Every session is led by a PATH International certified instructor and supported by trained volunteers including a horse leader and side walkers who are present throughout the entire ride. Our facility is a PATH Premier Accredited Center, which means we meet the highest safety standards in the therapeutic riding industry.
Volunteering
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Not at all. Many of our most valued volunteers had never been near a horse before their first session. Our team will provide all the training you need before you get started, and our staff is always present to support volunteers during sessions.
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Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age. There is no upper age limit and we welcome volunteers from all walks of life.
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You can apply to volunteer by visiting our Volunteer page and filling out our online application. Our Volunteer Coordinator Isabelle Shaffer will be in touch to walk you through the next steps.
General
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Our main facility is located at
1205 Camp Able Trail
Abilene, TX 79606
Approximately 7 miles outside of Abilene near Buffalo Gap, TX.
Our mailing address is
PO Box 695
Buffalo Gap, TX 79508.
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You can contact us directly by phone or email by visiting or Contact page.
Contact Us -
There are several ways to support Camp Able including making a tax-deductible donation, sponsoring one of our therapy horses, volunteering your time, or attending our annual Buffalo Run Adventure Challenge fundraiser. Visit our Support Us page to explore all the ways you can make a difference.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is always happy to help. Reach out and we will get back to you as soon as possible.