Camp Dovewood

O'Brien, FL

About Camp Dovewood

Activities — full list and breadth

Camp Dovewood is more than a recreational camp; it is a learning environment where future Christian leaders can cultivate their talents for God's glory. With over 24 fun-filled activities to choose from, campers can select what they love to do. Activities include horseback riding, gymnastics, cheerleading, swimming, archery, ballet, drama, photography, tennis, softball, soccer, volleyball, music, Great Books, Bible, baton, water ballet, river rafting, and CIT Leadership — as well as special events like an overnight horseback trip to the Suwannee River and a 4th of July Parade.

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23221 101st Rd, O'Brien, FL 32071Approximate map location; confirm arrival directions with the camp.Open map ↗© OpenStreetMap contributors

At a glance

Address
23221 101st Rd, O'Brien, FL 32071
Camp type
Overnight camp
Ages
7–16
Accreditations stated by camp
American Camping Association, Certified Horsemanship Association

Activities

Waterfront

  • Swimming

Land Sports

  • Soccer
  • Tennis
  • Archery
  • Volleyball
  • Softball
  • Gymnastics

Arts & Creative

  • Photography
  • Music

More activities

  • 4th of July parade
  • art
  • ballet
  • baton twirling
  • Bible
  • board games
  • cheerleading
  • CIT leadership
  • drama
  • great books
  • grooming and stable management
  • help feed horses
  • horseback riding
  • overnight horseback trip to the Suwannee River
  • recreational swimming
  • river rafting
  • trail rides
  • water ballet

Clues to fit

Interdenominational values and belonging

We believe in interdenominational camping because it offers the opportunity for girls of all faiths to share with one another as sisters-in-Christ. We believe that when a girl grows socially, physically, emotionally, individually, spiritually and intellectually, she develops each of the necessary spokes of life's wheel, enabling her to be God's total child.

Explore on the camp’s websiteInterdenominational values and belonging

Lasting friendships beyond camp

Relationships between campers and counselors often become sources of long-term strength and inspiration as many campers return to Camp Dovewood year after year, reconnecting with mentors who have made a difference in their lives. The supportive relationships and Christ-centered guidance they receive at camp lay a strong foundation for their future, equipping them with confidence, faith, and positive role models to draw upon throughout their lives.

Explore on the camp’s websiteLasting friendships beyond camp

Setting — location near the Suwannee River in North Florida

Camp Dovewood is located at 23221 101st Rd, O'Brien, FL. Campers enjoy trail rides, river rafting on the Suwannee River, and overnight horseback trips to the Suwannee River as part of camp life.

Traditions & shared moments

Peanut Pals tradition — cabin kindness activity

Five different peanut pal gifts. Peanut pals are like secret pals — one day we draw names and during the day the girls give another girl little gifts during the day to make her day special.

Independence, growth & leadership

CIT program — leadership pathway for older girls

Camp Dovewood offers a Counselor in Training (CIT) program, allowing older girls to participate in camp activities at a reduced rate while preparing for future roles as camp mentors. This program provides these girls with hands-on experience in leadership and service, further enriching the camp's supportive, mentorship-focused environment. Counselors in training must be age 15 and have previously attended camp as a camper, or age 16 and apply.

Horseback riding — confidence and skill-building through horses

Dovewood's program provides certified instruction for all skill levels — from beginner to advanced — in English and Western riding, dressage, vet care, grooming, and stable management. Campers work with a team of 30 horses and participate in seven daily riding classes, with special trail rides on Wednesdays. The experience culminates in a horse show on the final day, allowing girls to showcase their skills. Working with horses teaches patience, responsibility, and courage as girls learn to care for and handle these powerful animals. Each accomplishment, whether mastering a new riding technique or learning the basics of grooming, builds self-confidence and provides a powerful sense of achievement.

Programs & camp life

Horseback riding program — depth and accreditation

At Dovewood we teach English equitation, western pleasure, rodeo events, bareback, dressage, grooming, stable management, and basic horse care. Girls get a chance to work with all breeds of horses in the ring and on the trail. Girls enjoy preparing for their horse show with events like the walk trot and walk, trot canter class as well as barrel bending, saddle swap, bareback, catalog race, egg and spoon event, training level and first level dressage. All of our instructors are experienced equestrians. We are accredited with Camp Horsemanship in both English and western riding.

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What Camp Dovewood is — overview and mission

Camp Dovewood gives young girls and teens a fun-filled environment where they can polish their talents, make long-lasting friendships and strengthen their relationship with the Lord. Our Christian equestrian camp for girls is a residential, accredited summer camp located in O'Brien, Florida. Dovewood offers over 24 activities for campers to do. Each activity is led by a strong group of female Christian role models and directors who are passionate about passing along their knowledge, faith, experience and abilities to the next generation. Girls gain positive self-esteem and get a chance to do the things they love all day long.

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For parents & families

Health forms and medical requirements

Health forms are required for all campers. You MUST have this form to be dropped off at camp and it DOES require that your health care provider fill out a portion.

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Technology policy — no phones or electronics

No radio, cell phones, iPods or other electronics. No phone calls except for emergencies. You can send e-mails and we will deliver.

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Reviews & ratings