For over 100 years, Lake Bryn Mawr Camp, located in Wayne County Pennsylvania, has been one of the premier all girls’ camps. It continues to thrive as a traditional 7 week sleepaway camp – while also housing two, more recently established, specialty camps for Dance & Horseback Riding.
Bryn Mawr Riding Camp (established in 2012) and Bryn Mawr Dance Camp (established in 2018) offer two-week focused programs. Open to dancers and riders of all levels – these camps offer a unique specialized experience with the resources and support of being under the Lake Bryn Mawr Camp umbrella, directed by Dan and Jane Kagan (veteran directors of over 30 years). Campers in both programs get to live all aspects of camp life & activities – making it a true camp experience while growing as dancers/riders.
- What inspired the creations of both Bryn Mawr Dance & Bryn Mawr Riding Camps, and what core values continue to guide the camp experience today?
DANCE: Bryn Mawr Dance Camp was inspired by the desire to create a two-week sleepaway program that prioritizes dance for campers who might not be able to commit to a traditional seven-week session. In my roles as program director and parent liaison, I gained insight into the unique needs of young dancers seeking a true summer camp experience. Bringing this vision to life required dedication and new facilities, but the transformation came together seamlessly and has since enriched Bryn Mawr’s summer offerings. Today, the camp blends classic summer fun with intensive dance training, empowering campers to grow, take risks, and express themselves creatively – all within a supportive all-girls environment where each dancer can truly shine.
RIDING: Bryn Mawr Riding Camp was founded in 2012 for campers who want their entire summer experience to revolve around horses and riding. Built on the four core values of our traditional camp: Loyalty, Beauty, Merit, and Comradeship – these principles guide everything we do and create an unforgettable experience for our riders. Sharing the main campus, values, and resources of Bryn Mawr allows us to offer a specialized riding program while still embracing the spirit of a traditional camp. To enhance this experience, we acquired a beautiful 50-acre equestrian facility nearby, where campers live out the four core values as they grow as equestrians. At the heart of our camp is a deep respect for the horse – our sport wouldn’t exist without these incredible animals – and we ensure every camper learns and honors the fundamentals of horse care alongside their riding.
- What kinds of friendships or social experiences do campers typically form here, and how does the camp foster a supportive, inclusive environment?
DANCE: At Bryn Mawr Dance Camp, a shared love of dance sparks friendships from day one. Campers quickly form meaningful connections through a mix of dance training and classic camp activities, from the first campfire to adventures on the ropes course. In our supportive all-girls environment, campers cheer each other on and focus on personal growth rather than competition. We nurture an inclusive community where every dancer finds a place to belong, celebrate achievements, and embrace new challenges, creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime.
RIDING: Bryn Mawr Riding Camp creates friendships like no other, built on a shared love of horses. Our campers can always start a conversation with “horses!” Campers, ages 11–15, participate in activities as a group while being sorted by riding level for lessons. This allows them to connect with peers their own age, as well as younger and older campers. No matter their background or riding experience, every camper is supported in reaching their riding goals, forming bonds that are strengthened both in the barn and across camp activities.
- What sets Bryn Mawr Riding Camp apart from other riding camps? Are there any special traditions or programs you’re especially proud of?
DANCE: What sets Bryn Mawr Dance Camp apart is our unique blend of a traditional girls’ summer camp with a dedicated dance program. Campers enjoy daily dance instruction across a variety of styles while also taking part in classic camp activities: tubing, ceramics, ropes courses, campfires, and more. This combination allows dancers to train seriously while having fun, forming friendships, and making lasting memories beyond the studio. By combining the tradition of camp life with focused dance training, we enrich both the dancers’ skills and their overall camp experience.
RIDING: Several things set Bryn Mawr Riding Camp apart – first and foremost, our horses. Through wonderful partnerships with the University of Findlay (Ohio) and Centenary University (New Jersey), we bring in horses used on their intercollegiate riding teams during the year. These horses are exceptionally trained and experienced in hunters, jumpers, dressage, eventing, and more. Campers ride a different horse each day, gaining valuable experience with a variety of breeds, sizes, temperaments, and disciplines – each horse offering something unique to the rider.
Our facilities are equally impressive, featuring 40 stalls, an indoor arena, five outdoor arenas, trails, and a cross-country field. Being part of the traditional Lake Bryn Mawr Camp also allows our riders to enjoy classic camp activities – swimming, rock climbing, cooking, arts, and sports – blending a specialized riding experience with the best of summer camp fun.
- For parents considering Bryn Mawr for their child, what should they know about how the camp supports growth both on and off the horse?
DANCE: Parents should know that Bryn Mawr Dance Camp fosters personal development in every aspect of camp life. On the dance floor, campers receive instruction tailored to their skill level, allowing them to grow technically in a supportive environment. Off the floor, they build confidence through adventure activities, develop teamwork and resilience in group settings, and gain independence by living in cabins and managing daily camp routines. The camp’s philosophy emphasizes character building, focusing not only on dance skills but also on nurturing self-confidence, resilience, and a supportive attitude toward others.
RIDING: At Bryn Mawr Riding Camp, we support all young equestrians, regardless of experience or background. Our program is designed so that riders of every level can fully participate in all activities and be fully immersed in the camp experience. Off the horse, our counselors are kind, attentive, and help campers form lasting connections. Above all, camp is about fun and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
- How has the camp evolved over the years, and what exciting plans or innovations are in store for the coming summers?
DANCE: We’re excited to announce that Acrobatic Arts will be added to our class schedule for summer 2026! Our gymnastics facility is among the best in the camping industry, and we’ve spent the off-season creating new programming for both new and returning campers. We’ve also designed fresh evening activities while preserving our favorite dance camp traditions. This summer promises an elevated yet grounded experience that will challenge, inspire, and delight our dancers.
RIDING: I feel fortunate to have watched Bryn Mawr Riding Camp evolve over the years! I started as a counselor in 2011 and have been part of the camp since its very first summer. Now, in our 15th summer, it’s incredible to see how much we’ve grown. We’ve upgraded our facilities – adding two outdoor arenas, more stalls, improved our cross-country course, and expanded turnout pastures – and we’ve refined our program based on what campers love. New activities, like a three-day event combining cross-country, dressage, and show jumping, have become a favorite. Looking ahead, we’ll continue to enhance our facilities with new fencing and leveled arena footing, while introducing new riding exercises, on-the-ground lessons, and games that campers will enjoy.
- If you had to describe Bryn Mawr Dance / Riding Camps in three words, what would they be – and why those words?
DANCE: Supportive – A community that celebrates every dancer, lifts each other up, and encourages growth at every step.
Expressive – A space to explore movement and creativity freely, build confidence, and become your best, most authentic self.
Fun – Where the joy of dance meets classic camp adventures, unforgettable moments, and friendships that last well beyond the summer.
RIDING: Well, the obvious answer is “horses, horses, and horses!” That’s what camp is really all about. On a deeper level, I’d say our core values are Kindness, Growth, and Friendship. Kindness comes first – both toward our horses and toward one another. Horseback riding can be a challenging sport for young women facing outside pressures, and we work to create a space where kindness guides every interaction. Growth happens for everyone at Bryn Mawr, as campers and staff alike learn valuable skills and life lessons. And Friendship – the bonds made at camp are truly special, whether it’s finding a best friend from across the world or forming a connection with a beloved horse.
About the Contributors:
Elizabeth Howard is a rare find and a big reason as to why Bryn Mawr Dance Camp stands above the rest. Liz has the unique combination of a lifetime of dance training, a deep dance performance resume, years of experience teaching dancers of all levels, and a passion for and background in summer camp leadership.
Emily Tyler, a certified CHA level 4 English riding instructor, has been part of the Bryn Mawr Riding Program since 2011. She spent two years as a riding instructor and cabin counselor, prior to being promoted to the Leadership Team in 2013. Emily teaches all levels, from the beginner to the more advanced rider, and has an excellent understanding of the emotional needs of girls. An integral part of Emily’s job is scheduling, where she matches campers to a horse and an instructor, allowing them to reach their full potential during lessons. Emily lives at Bryn Mawr year-round and is responsible for all staff hiring and training. Emily has been riding in the English hunter/jumper community for over 25 years, in addition to a year spent working directly with an equine veterinarian, during which she learned additional medical and horse care skills that she enjoys sharing with campers and staff. Additionally, she brings experience in event riding, dressage, and cross country. Emily graduated from Virginia Intermont College with a B.S. in Equine Studies. She actively competed with the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association as well as the Intercollegiate Dressage Association.