When the hunting horn sounded at the beginning of this season, the Camargo Hunt embarked on its 100th year of mounted fox hunting. One of the oldest hunts in North America, it is steeped in tradition and enjoys camaraderie across generations. Hunt members of all ages gather to celebrate horses, hounds and heritage, inspired by the thrill of the chase, the beauty of the terrain and the time they share.
“Throughout the 2025-2026 Centennial season we are celebrating all things Camargo Hunt,” says Camargo Hunt Board Member Becky Trasser. “Our season runs from Labor Day through March, and we encourage all to attend and come join in the fun.”
The Camargo Hunt was founded in the Village in 1925 by Julius Fleischmann, Jr., of Winding Creek Farm, and recognized by the Masters of Foxhounds Association in 1928. As the Village grew and open land became more inaccessible, the Hunt moved to more space in Clermont County in 1973, then once again to northern Kentucky in 1989. After a merger with a Kentucky hunt in 1995, and acreage donations in subsequent years, the clubhouse is currently in Owen County, where members enjoy weekend hunts here and there, on land that is similar to that of Indian Hill: grassy hills, open fields and wooded trails.
Today’s fox hunts are as much about the social experience as they are about the sport. Members don’t have to have a horse to participate: the Camargo Hunt welcomes social members as well as riding members. The upcoming schedule brings many moments to celebrate: the Camargo Hunter Trials, The Blessing of the Hounds, hunts, rides and the annual Hunt Gala in December.
“Indian Hill was begun by the visionaries who founded Camargo Hunt and Camargo Golf course. Indian Hill would not be the same without Camargo Hunt,” says Natalie Nesbitt, MFH, who grew up riding in the Village. “Camargo Hunt has been a huge part of my
life for over 35 years.”
“The Hunt has provided me a community and friendships from a very young age through my adult years,” Trasser agrees. “The Hunt friendships, horses and hounds—I love the thrill of the chase and being outdoors in the early dawn hours of the day. Time seems to just slow down for a brief moment.”
No hunt is complete without the traditional tastes and toasts that fuel the riders before, during and after the event. Before each hunt, participants enjoy a Stirrup Cup, a tipple served in silver cups, often shaped like animals. Throughout some hunts, riders and spectators are fed from the Tallyho Wagon, a trailer of treats that follows the action. Tucked in the hay, you’ll find champagne on ice and light bites, refreshments to enjoy and share with riders as they make chase through the field. Following each hunt, members hold Bring to Shares, an equestrian version of a potluck, often breakfast foods.
“After most hunts our membership brings food and drink to share and all are amazing, from the mulled wine and ciders, to charcuterie, bagels and lox and tasty pastries. Everyone brings what they can and talks about the day of hunting,” Trasser explains.
On October 4, Camargo Hunt hosts its 84th annual Camargo Hunter Trials at Clippinger Field. Horses and riders compete on cross-country courses that mimic hunt field conditions, including jumps of stone, logs and post-and-rail fences. It’s a test of both horse and rider and the bond between them.
A VIP tent is available for prime views of the Hunter Trials action and includes refreshments from breakfast through lunch, with snacks and cocktails in between.
Tailgaters line the perimeter of the field to compete in the amateur culinary contest for awards and bragging rights. Spectators are invited to enjoy it all.
First-time spectators are encouraged to roam and take in the sights and sounds of this annual fall tradition.
“Come as you are and wear comfortable shoes for walking in a field,” Trasser advises first-timers. “Don't miss the Parade of Hounds and the Tailgates surrounding the large ring. Come and enjoy the day and make new friends!”
Whether as rider, social member or spectator, all are invited to join in the fun of the Camargo Hunt in this benchmark year of its centennial celebration. Is the hunting horn calling you? Learn about membership and upcoming events online. CamargoHunt.com
Save the date for these upcoming Camargo
Hunt events, open to the public: Camargo Hunter Trials–October 4; The Blessing of the Hounds–November 1; Annual Hunt Gala–December 13; and Boxing Day Hunt–December 26