Welcome to Crazy L Horsemanship

Building confident, reliable partners through clear communication, consistency, and honest horsemanship.

About C | L Horsemanship

At C | L Horsemanship, we believe every horse deserves a thoughtful approach built around communication, consistency, and trust.

Cara McWilliams began her journey with horses at six years old and gained hands-on experience developing horses from a young age. With over two decades of experience, Cara has built her program around understanding the individual horse and creating confident, willing partners.

Specializing in colt starting, restarts, and behavioral training, Cara works with horses that need a clear foundation and a customized approach. Whether young, sensitive, challenging, or simply needing a fresh start, every horse is treated as an individual.

We don’t just train horses. We build partners.

Our Facility

At C | L Horsemanship, our facility is designed with one goal in mind: creating confident, well-rounded horses.

Located on a quiet 13-acre property in northeastern Oklahoma, our training program is intentionally kept small so every horse receives individualized attention throughout their stay.

Each training horse is housed in their own private paddock, allowing them the space to settle in, relax, and develop without the stress of crowded turnout.

Training begins in our 60-foot round pen, providing a safe environment to establish communication, confidence, and a strong foundation. From there, horses gain experience beyond the round pen through pasture riding, varied terrain, and real-world exposure.

We believe a truly dependable horse is created through thoughtful exposure and consistency—not just repetition in an arena.

Whether your goal is a ranch partner, trail horse, or versatile all-around prospect, our focus is developing horses that are confident and prepared for life outside the training program.

Training Programs

We believe a solid foundation takes time. Every horse learns at their own pace, and our programs are designed to create lasting results—not rushed progress.

Colt Starting $1,100/month • 60-day minimum
Starting a young horse is about much more than getting on and riding. A strong foundation is built through patience, consistency, and understanding.

Our colt starting program focuses on creating a confident, willing partner by establishing clear communication, solid ground manners, and dependable riding skills.

Horses progress at a pace that supports both their physical and mental development, creating a foundation they can continue building on for years to come.

Restarts & Behavioral $1,100/month • Training length determined after consultation

Some horses need more than a tune-up—they need a fresh start. Whether a horse has inconsistent previous training, lost confidence, developed unwanted behaviors, or struggles with trust and communication, this program focuses on rebuilding a solid foundation through thoughtful, consistent training.

Every behavioral case begins with a consultation and intake form to better understand the horse's history, current challenges, and training goals. Because every horse is different, the recommended training length will be determined after the initial evaluation. While many horses require 60–90 days or more, the program length will always be based on what is in the horse's best interest.

Tune-Ups & Refreshers $1,100/month • 30-day minimum
Tune-ups are designed for horses that already have a solid foundation and need a refresher, additional miles, or help returning to a consistent routine.

All tune-up horses are evaluated individually before acceptance. If a horse requires more extensive training or behavioral work, a longer program may be recommended.

Training Expectations

Every horse accepted into C | L Horsemanship receives an individualized training plan based on their experience, temperament, and goals.

Our focus is not on rushing a horse through a timeline—it is on creating a reliable foundation that lasts.

Training spots are intentionally limited so each horse receives the time, attention, and consistency they deserve.

Because every horse is an individual, progress may look different from one horse to the next. Our goal is always to leave each horse better prepared, more confident, and better understood than when they arrived.

Care & Recovery During Training

A successful training program requires more than consistent rides—it requires attention to the whole horse.

Throughout their stay, horses receive individualized care based on their physical and mental needs. Training schedules are adjusted as needed to allow for appropriate rest, recovery, growth, and development.

Rest days are an important part of producing a confident, capable partner. Horses are living, thinking athletes—not machines—and recovery days are tracked as part of their overall program.

Training programs are based on active training days, not simply calendar dates. If a horse requires additional time away from active training, those days will be added to ensure they receive the full number of scheduled training days included in their program.

Along with their training, horses receive consistent care throughout their stay, including quality nutrition, routine monitoring, and individualized support.

As part of our commitment to the whole horse, BEMER sessions may be incorporated into a horse’s program as a supportive wellness tool.

Our goal is to develop horses that are confident, comfortable, and prepared for the real world.

Our Customers know best

Courtney Seloover

" We had sent our 20 year old mare to Cara in August 2022, because she had turned super stubborn, wouldn’t listen to me, and would bolt to get out of doing work. After just 30 days with Cara, this horse has completely changed in many ways. She has a better attitude and wants to take care of me when I ride her. She stands at the mounting block and doesn’t take off immediately like she used to. She listens to her cues and doesn’t throw a fit. I also did ride her while she was with Cara, who was more than willing to have me come and test her out. I would highly suggest everyone to do this, as it helped me better understand my horse and her needs. I think it has ultimately shaped a better relationship between us. Cara is an amazing trainer that I strongly recommend anyone to use for their horses. I can’t thank you enough for your help! "

Samantha O'Brien

Courtney Seloover

"I am very thankful I made the decision 2 months ago (7/2023) to reach out about my mare, Rose. Cara did an amazing job at understanding what Rose needed to take us to the next level. My Mare was giving me trouble and I couldn't understand why one day we were fine and the next we were fighting against one another, mind you she is only 4, but nothing was working. Cara also took the time to understand me as well as both of us together. This is very hard to find now a days. Someone to take the time and not force the training they think the horse needs, but to compromise and listen to a horse and even adjust their training to the horses needs. I recommend her to anyone!"

Linda Loehrer

Courtney Seloover

Felicia Gifford

"Honeymoon, my 2 1/2 year old QH, spent 90 days with Cara McWilliams this summer(2022). Next to my purchase of him as a weanling, this was my best money ever spent. I told her I wanted to keep him as quiet and gentle as possible because he'd be my future (solo) trail partner. He started out bucking and squealing like a fool! Cara was kind and patient with him. Pushed him when he needed it and also knew when he needed a little break as to not soar him. She was great about sending me videos and updates. Today Honeymoon walks on a loose lead like an old seasoned horse. He tacks easily and doesn't move an inch for mounting. He has the confidence to go anywhere I point him, along the road with loud semis flying by, up and down hills and through water with his happy ears at all times. I am extremely happy with his training experience and highly recommend Cara !!!"

Felicia Gifford

Courtney Carpenter

Felicia Gifford

"My pretty girl has made SO much progress. So excited for the spring thaw so she can explore the world off the track. Huge shout out to Crazy L Horsemanship! You've got skills girl!"

Roscha Zoet

Courtney Carpenter

"I have received many types of equine services from Cara. From lessons, equine nutrition, care, and training for my horses. I have never had any kind of question about Cara's complete competence. She has taken me from an insecure, senior rider with physical impairments to a confident and safe rider with all the safety and assurance I need to be comfortable with my skills. She is an excellent teacher, covering all phases of learning. Safety for the rider and the horse is always first and foremost with her.

Do you want a well trained horse? Cara did that for me and my horse Gemma. Gemma is confident on a trail and is willing to accept challenges that are presented to her. Cara listens to the horse with patience and knows how to ask, when to wait, and when to push. Gentle thorough training is what Cara delivers each and every time."

Courtney Carpenter

"Things with Benji have been so good!! I just get so impressed with him. He's had several new experiences since being home and he just takes it all in with a level head!"

Vallorie Weires

"I am writing this to express my utmost appreciation for my horse trainer, Cara. Her unconventional yet effective methods have proven to be a game-changer in the way my horse, Sienna, and I interact and learn together.

Cara's approach is not one-size-fits-all. Instead, she tailors her training to the unique needs and learning levels of each horse under her care. This ensures that she is fostering the right behaviors that are not only beneficial but also sustainable for the horse's rider.

What sets Cara apart is her comprehensive understanding of the complexities of each horse's personality and needs. She guides riders to safely navigate these complexities, helping them understand their horse's new behaviors and responses. This approach ensures that the training she initiates will be continuous and sustainable for a lifetime.

Cara's commitment extends beyond the horses to her human clients as well. Thanks to her, I've regained my confidence and found my groove again. Riding has become a dream, and learning with Sienna is fulfilling. I can confidently say that I am a better partner for Sienna because of Cara. She has made riding and learning not just a task, but a fun and enjoyable experience.

When Sienna, a 5-year -old QH mare, entered training in April 2023, she had never been started under saddle. Fast forward to today, Sienna and I feel comfortable venturing out on trails alone, whether bareback or under saddle. Sienna has even been used for kids' lessons, and she is a delight to ride as we continue to learn together.

In conclusion, Cara's expertise and unique approach make her an exceptional horse trainer. She makes the horse whisperer look like an amateur. If you're looking for a trainer who will understand your horse's needs and help you become a better rider, Cara is the one to go to."

Midwest Foundation Quarter Horses

" Here's our 2yr old, out of our mare Poco Josey Glo after 2 months with Cara Linae McWilliams. This is the 2nd one she's started for us. She creates a great foundation if you're looking for an amazing person to work with your horses."

Ben Hargens

"Cara was patient, understanding, and willing to teach, but I never felt as though she was the least bit judgmental at a time when she had every right to be. Cara has the ability to see the potential in both horse and people which she works to bring out for their benefit. She cares about helping the horse and its owner develop together to be the best team possible toward their desired end, which can be greatly assisted by an owner who has the means to commit the necessary time to lessons. She will be as honest with you as you ask her to be regarding your situation while keeping in mind what is best for each individual horse and rider. Frankly, had I continued college in Brookings at SDSU rather than attending veterinary school in Ames, I would still be working with Cara today.

So if you're still not sure if Crazy L Horsemanship is the right fit for you, here are a few experiences I had while I was there. Cara was patient enough to stand with a young man who was learning how to trim feet at college for as long as it took to hold a fidgety young mustang who really wasn't sure about having his feet trimmed in the first place. She was the steady voice of needed reason while a young horse was crow hopping around the indoor arena, successfully throwing his owner in the dirt. Not only did she take care of my horse like he was a member of her personal herd, but she treated me like an equal, despite the fact I certainly hadn't earned that right on the subject matter of horses.

If you take your horse to Cara with an open mind and the intention to learn, I can all but promise you won't be disappointed. Maybe I can't speak for anyone else, but in my case Cara did nothing short of giving both my horse and myself the tools to go forward and make my dream a reality, something I believe she can do for you as well should you choose to work with her."

Welcome to Crazy L Horsemanship