FAQ’s

What time do the kids get up?

Just in time to get to the flagpole on time! Usually between 7:30 and 7:45am.

Do you have email and a fax number where I can write my camper?

Yes, but the campers must use regular mail to write back. Check the “Contact Us” page of our web site for numbers and addresses. When you write to your camper make sure it has her full name and Cabin.

Do you have visiting days?

No, we do not have visiting days at the BR. Due to the length of our sessions we do not feel it necessary to have visiting days in the middle of a session. Also, many campers come from a great distance away and it would not be possible for their parents to visit, but mostly parents visiting contributes to and creates campers feelings of missing home.

May my daughter make or receive a telephone call?

No, the girls may not call you and you may not talk with them during their stay. You may check with the office staff if you have concerns about your daughter. They will be happy to talk with you about your daughter.

May my daughter bring her cell phone to camp?

No, they are not permitted. There is no need for a camper to have a cell phone at camp.

What clothes do I send?

On the parents section of this web site under “Application & Forms” you will find a list of suggested clothing, also you will receive this list in the mail during the month of May. Please try to keep your daughter's belongings in one bag or trunk (bedroll may be separate).

Do you have laundry facilities?

No, please send enough clothes to last your entire stay at camp.

Does my daughter need riding boots?

Yes. We suggest a slip on western riding boot (cowboy boot), but there are many different types of riding boots available. We do require a flat-soled riding boot with at least a one-inch heel. These requirements have been made for your child’s safety.

Does my daughter need a riding helmet?

Riding helmets are a must. They are to be worn while riding. You may bring your own, you can rent one upon check-in, or you may purchase one upon check-in. All helmets sold or rented are ASTM & SEI certified, as this is what we suggest you bring.

When is the horse show?

The horse show starts at 2:00 PM sharp on the last Saturday of the session.

Does my daughter need money while she is there?

No, she will have an account to charge anything that she needs or wants. You pay her account when you check out. Black River does not accept credit cards. Cash or Check only.

What government authority supervises camps?

The State of Michigan licenses the BR and we are inspected and approved by the Michigan Health Department. We are also an accredited camp by the American Camping Association and a member of the Camp Horsemanship Association.

Is there any camp security?

BR is assessable by only one road, at which a security guard is on post nightly from 11pm until 7am, the guard also makes hourly rounds of the camp to ensure every person’s safety. Each bunkhouse is equipped with a phone system that can dial 911 in an emergency. However, we have never had a security issue at BR.

How do I get to the BR?

On the parents section of this web site you will find directions, also you will receive directions to the ranch in your last mailing, which is approximately 4 weeks prior to your arrival.