Ramona Scouts return from nonstop Rawhide Ranch adventure

Members of Ramona Girl Scout Troop 8009 recently enjoyed a weekend at Rawhide Ranch, a horse camp in Bonsall. They saved and budgeted a portion of their cookie proceeds to pay for the trip, said Danielle Shaw, troop leader.

Their adventure into the Old West began immediately upon their arrival with a stroll down Old Town Main Street.

“We took in the sights of a simpler time, as the campground is staged much like that of an old western film lot,” said Shaw.

First stop was the bunks of “Fort Rawhide,” their weekend lodging accommodations.

“With only a short time to settle in, our group jumped right into the program campfire activities,” she said.

Bright and early the next morning, the ranch programs continued with classes in animal and horse science, vaulting (gymnastics on horseback), riding instruction and animal care time.

From sunup to sundown the girls shared in the responsibilities of maintaining a ranch.

“They shoveled out the horse corrals, fed and groomed the horses, and even learned a little horse psychology so they could better interpret the actions of the animal they were learning to ride,” their leader said, and they learned and practiced the riding basics under the direction of the ranch counselors.

All activities were in preparation for the weekend finale — The Ranch Hand Horse Show, the girls’ opportunity

to shine and show off to all their invited friends and family members the skills they learned at the ranch.

Ribbons and trophies were awarded — ribbons for first, second and third with a trophy for grand champion — and all received ribbons of participation in their categories. Ashley Hively earned grand champion in showmanship.

“Each and every scout had such an amazing adventure that they are all currently saving their own funds to go again,” said Shaw. “That alone is a testament to the quality program offered at Rawhide Ranch.”

The ranch is nationally accredited by the American Camp Association and Certified Horsemanship Association. It also is a member of the Western Association of Independent Camps.