Overview
Do you love horses, the outdoors, and the energy of summer camp? Ready to spend your days on horseback and your nights building unforgettable memories with campers? As a Cabin Counselor: Riding Instructor (CC:RI) at Camp Chief Ouray, you won’t just teach riding—you’ll mentor, inspire, and help young people grow in confidence, courage, and connection.
The Experience
This is more than a job—it’s a fully immersive camp adventure. You’ll live in a cabin with 8–10 campers and a co-counselor during 1–2 week overnight sessions, serving as both a trusted role model and an equestrian instructor. From trail rides through stunning mountain landscapes to campfire evenings and cabin laughs, you’ll be part of every moment that makes camp magical.
What You’ll Do
Serve as an overnight cabin counselor, supporting campers’ physical, emotional, and social well-being
Lead western-style riding lessons and trail rides for campers ages 7–14
Help deliver a progressive, 5 level & Intro equestrian curriculum
Care for and work with a herd of 45 horses, learning each horse’s personality and needs
Rotate between riding instruction and barn work, including horse care and facility upkeep
Create a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment for campers and fellow staff
Support evening programs, meals, cleaning, and overall camp operations
Who You Are
At least 18 years old
Experienced in horsemanship and western pleasure riding
Comfortable working with youth in a camp or childcare setting
Patient, positive, and confident leading groups
A strong team player with great time-management skills
CPR/First Aid certified (or willing to obtain)
Passionate about safety, mentorship, and creating meaningful experiences
Our Mission & Culture
At YMCA of the Rockies, we put Christian principles into practice and strive to build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. We live our core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and faith, and we’re committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. At camp, that means every camper and staff member feels safe, supported, and valued.
If you’re ready to saddle up for a summer that matters, grow as a leader, and be part of a tight-knit camp community—you belong here.
Lead with heart. Ride with purpose. Make this summer unforgettable.
About YMCA of the Rockies
At YMCA of the Rockies, we believe nature has room for everyone—and so do we. From different backgrounds and abilities to different reasons for coming, each person adds something unique to our community. This is a place where you can be yourself, connect deeply, and grow together, naturally. As the largest YMCA camp and conference center in the world, YMCA of the Rockies serves over 210,000 people/year.
