![Getting ready to embark on an orchard trail ride at HC Equestrian's dressage camp at Monkey Tail Ranch](http://hcequestrian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DressageCampTrail.jpg)
This year’s HC Equestrian camp deviated from the usual eventing format to focus on dressage. The Monkey Tail Ranch in Hollister graciously hosted our campers for 3 days of riding, including private lessons with Ellen Eckstein, obstacle course training, trail rides, and an introduction to equine bodywork.
![Carla and Feety practice lateral cervical flexion.](http://hcequestrian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/10492501_10152962095719251_100639759304285903_n-225x300.jpg)
Campers also were able to enjoy puppy socialization with Monkey Tail’s young service dog hopefuls. A continental breakfast was provided each morning, and teams of campers worked together in the kitchen to provide some scrumptious home-cooked meals.
We asked our campers to share some of their favorite parts of dressage camp:
“Having three lessons in a row with Ellen; stuff was really staring to click. Hanging out with a really nice and nonjudgmental group of Horse People.” –Kathie
“Getting to see Elise, finally taking a lesson with the amazing Ellen, getting to ride Boo, and of course the puppies!” — Annalisa
“Everything! Horses, puppies, spending time with great people! Can’t wait to do it again!” –Erica
![Erica tacking up Blackberry](http://hcequestrian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/EricaAisleway-225x300.jpg)
![Carla and Feety taking a lesson from Ellen Eckstein](http://hcequestrian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/CarlaFeety-300x168.png)
![Belle's tarp training goes easily](http://hcequestrian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/BelleTarp-300x225.jpg)
![Ellen gives Shayanna some pointers](http://hcequestrian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/ShyReins-225x300.jpg)