TARKIO - It was all about horses as the Tarkio Equestrian Center hosted its first annual Kids Camp on Saturday, 

The day revolved around exposing kids to all aspects of horsemanship – from the cost of owning and keeping a horse to the different parts of a saddle. 

“It teaches kids respect for the horses,” Kathie Gamble, a volunteer at the camp, said. “It is therapeutic for them and these horses are really gentle. The kids have learned a lot.” 

Mark and Ronnie Haskins own and operate the Tarkio Equestrian Center and according to Mark the idea for the camp came about to fill a need in the county. 

“I grew up with the horses at a place like this (Tarkio) that doesn’t exist anymore,” Mark said. “Having a place in the valley where kids can ride inspired this day. We are trying to get more people involved with horses.” 

Mark added that the goal of the day was to teach kids “every aspect of what it is to have a horse”, and from 9 am to 5 pm the campers did exactly that  - breaking off into different age groups and going from station to station to learn a different aspect of horsemanship. 

“This day lets kids start young and build a foundation,” Mark said. “We are very pleased to have had 30 plus kids attend.” 

According to Mark the Tarkio Equestrian Center will “definitely” hold the kids camp again next year and he is already thinking of ways to improve on the success of this year’s camp. 

“I think next year we will shorten up the day a bit and keep it a little more focused,” Mark said. “In the future we would also like to bring it from an event we charge for to a donation based camp.” 

The Tarkio Equestrian Center is open to the public and Mark said their doors are always open to 4-H kids looking to use the facilities.