R&J Stables

Camp Kanata....It takes a village.

Camp Kanata offers an immersive summer camp experience like no other. Join us for a week of horseback riding, outdoor games and arts and crafts. Since our first summer in 2017, Camp Kanata has created a supportive environment where participants can build confidence, learn new skills, and create lasting friendships and memories.

Horses as Healers

Horses have a magical ability to provide a sense of calm and introspection. Heather Matile, a dedicated teacher with 30 years of experience, has put together a team of staff and horses. who provide 1:1 programs tailored to the needs and goals of each rider. With a background in Outdoor Education and a deep understanding of helping those with anxiety, ADHD, ODD, autism and other challenges, Heather ensures a safe and supportive environment for all participants. Rest assured, our patient staff and gentle horses are here to make your visit memorable and enjoyable.

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Testimonials

We have been proud and honoured members of the R & J Stables family for over five years. My daughter was a timid, green 6-year-old, who quickly became a die-hard horse lover with Heather’s guidance and support. Heather taught her “from the ground up” at Kam’s pace, recognizing and working through challenges and hesitations as they arose. Kam quickly came to trust Heather's calm demeanour, huge heart, and easy smile. From barn chores to grooming, understanding cues and behaviours, leading, groundwork and riding in and out of the saddle, my little girl went from being in awe and fear of these big, beautiful animals, to having respect and understanding, and an unending passion for all things horses.

Heather’s love for all things - both 2-legged and 4 - is evident in all that she does. Her years of teaching experience are invaluable, and the connections she makes with her students are everlasting. When we return for a visit, or our yearly summer camp week, Kam is always met with “the best bear hug ever!” Even though we have moved on to another stable to pursue Kam’s passion of becoming a cowgirl, we will never forget where her foundation came from. We are forever grateful.

-Love Mandi and Kamryn D.

We can not say enough amazing things about Heather, her barn, her horses and her crew! This barn is the best barn we have ever been to. You can tell they absolutely love their animals and would do anything for them. Our daughter who started riding when she was 5 with Heather has found a true love for riding! Heather makes her feel confident, safe, and always excited for the next lesson. Heather and her staff are very enthusiastic and patient. Her crew is also amazing with kids and always make the lessons fun! Our daughter always has a smile on her face during her lessons and during camp week. If you want to experience a barn that is truly passionate about riding and care for horses this is the place for you!

-The Davis Family

After years of searching for the perfect place for my son to take therapeutic horse back riding lessons we finally found R&J Stables. We had tried many different places and most catered to people with physical disabilities with repetitive lessons. My son is living with autism and has a wonderful connection with animals but this was frustrating for him as he was capable of so much more than was allowed. Since switching to R&J Stables 6 years ago it's been fantastic. He's been allowed to advance his riding and learning skills and is truly at peace on the back of a horse. I can't thank Heather and her wonderful staff enough for the experience and peace they have helped to provide both my son and myself by watching him grow as a rider as well as a young man. An experience he looks forward to every week

-Deborah and Blake

For the past 4 years I have taken my class to R&J Stables as a team building excursion at the beginning of their grade 8 year. This trip is by far one of the highlights of their year and a great way to kick off their last year of elementary school and form a bond between their graduating class. Students are kept busy from the moment they arrive, rotating through stations focusing on collaboration and teamwork. The stations are designed to utilize the 60 acres of beautiful farmland and bush. A day spent outside enjoying nature is the perfect break from the classroom. Students were engaged throughout the entire day, and enjoyed sharing their lunch break visiting with the barnyard animals. I would certainly recommend taking your class for a day trip to R&J Stables.

-K. Liscombe

Our daughter began horse riding lessons with Heather a couple years ago. Riding at R&J Stables is an amazing experience for all children and adults alike. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and welcoming. Heather has built an environment that's truly inclusive, kind and safe.

-Jessica Lindner

Seven years ago, my seven-year-old was feeling stressed and pressured by the competitive horseback riding lessons she was participating in. This little reflective person told me that she just wanted to know how to look after horses and spend time with them, so she would know how to look after her horses when she was a grown-up. So we started our search for something different…..and found Heather. Heather and r&j stables has been a positive and wonderful addition to our every week ever since. In the last seven years, my daughter has developed her love and knowledge of horses, to the point of teaching others. She continues to spend time with horses and trail ride, always requesting that it's Heather who will be with her, because a beautiful friendship and mentorship has developed over time. My daughter has a cautious nature and sometimes her worries slow her down. Heather understands kids and a wide array of special needs and learning styles. Heather uses her vast knowledge as an educator to provide what kids need, in the way they need it….and we all watch them grow and bloom with confidence and happiness, as a result.-Sarah AustinProud Mumma and Ontario Certified Teacher and former Special Education Consultant

We found R&J Stables several years ago and it immediately became one of my son's favourite places on Earth! I had been looking for a summer camp that would be a good fit for my son who sometimes struggles with social skills and emotional regulation. He absolutely thrives at R&J Stables, honing his riding skills as well as enjoying his responsibilities for all the other animals. Heather is amazing, warm and welcoming and quickly develops a strong rapport with kids and adults alike. Her team has always been mature and fun loving at the same time. We enjoyed many summers at R&J Stables and now find trail rides such a valuable thing to do together. I cannot recommend Heather and R&J Stables enough!

-Erinn and Callahan

R&J stables is such a lovely place. Not only is it filled with lovely horses but it is staffed by such caring people. Heather has done an amazing job picking great staff to run lessons and trail rides. I have watched my son’s confidence grow since he started riding here. Not only that I get to watch as my son is able to have a hour of learning yet calm and relaxation. And for any parent of a young boy you know how hard that can be. On top of that I have personally started to fulfill a childhood dream of learning to ride. With the one on one instruction, both my son and I get the support and lesson we both need while also getting to share a lovely afternoon ride together. If you’re wanting to take lessons, go for a trail ride, celebrate a birthday or join in on the summer camp. I promise you won’t regret picking R&J stables.

-Mackenzie Konecny

R&J Stables: Home of Sami's Place and Camp Kanata

Multi-Faceted Horse Riding Facility

Camp Kanata....It takes a village.

Horses as Healers

Testimonials

R&J Stables: Home of Sami's Place and Camp Kanata

Multi-Faceted Horse Riding Facility

Camp Kanata....It takes a village.

Horses as Healers

Testimonials

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