CAMP ACTIVITIES
EXPLORERS have an introduction and a chance to practice in ALL the Camp Activity categories during the course of each week. The week is jam-packed with variety.
MOUNTAINEERS experience more in-depth introductions and skill practice in their activities. There is a focus on Archery, Outdoor and Woods Living Skills & Crafts, and experiences in Nature. Each week features an outcamp excursion to nearby natural features, streams, lakes, and the higher mountains, with options for high-country Wilderness Hiking.
WESTERN RIDERS spend most of their time with the animals - riding horses and working with them from the ground up. When time permits, they have the opportunity to try a variety of other camp activities.
TEEN LEADERS learn to assist their group counselor mentor, the activity instructors, and guide the younger campers as they participate in activities right along with their group.
LONGER-TERM CAMPERS continue practicing and building on their skills week to week. Choose or combine weeks however you like. Instruction is always individualized for each camper at their interest and skill level.
Teambuilding Games
Fun Teambuilding Games are the foundation for all Camp programs. Campers build team skills while expanding their comfort levels as they open to accepting and supporting others, just as they themselves are accepted and supported. Games may strengthen and test balance, confidence, trust, communication, and problem-solving skills. Campers accept and support each other's strengths and weaknesses in a truly fun, meaningful way!
Horses
Our amazing Colorado Mountain Ranch horses and horse programs contribute hugely to the iconic status of CMR. The authentic relationships built with horses by all people of all ages are some of the most special connections ever made.
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Western Riding Horseback riding in all programs is the perfect way to start out with horses. Our horses are gentle and responsive, and they take care of first-time and less-experienced riders. Ride time includes group and individualized instruction and a trail ride through the meadows and forests of the Ranch property. Campers model the wranglers to learn how to be kind to the horses, pay attention to how a horse communicates, and build a foundation for a trusting partnership with the horse.
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CMR Horse Philosophy To learn more about our philosophy and value of Horses in the Colorado Mountain Ranch children programs, read about the Western Riders program. Participation as a Western Rider often becomes the goal of many children who are introduced to horses in our other programs.
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Horse and Animal Care Western Riders, Explorers, and Mountaineers participate in “At-Home-with-Horses” to reduce fear and grow respect for large animals. Animal Care provides hands-on experience with grooming, health care, and daily maintenance of horses, goats, kid goats, and our mini horse.
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Equus (Latin for "horse") Campers learn more about horses, including different horse breeds, history, and riding styles.
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Roping and Western Art Roping "cattle" (horse troughs with horns) with names like Bertha and Tofu, as well as drawing and painting horses is also on the agenda offered by the wranglers.
TESTIMONIALS
“M had a memorable week at your camp. She’ll be back next summer. Thank you for the excellent attention to details, selecting such a supportive, fun crew to work with the kids and for having such a variety of activities that make for a real learning experience. It’s amazing what you pack into one week! Thanks again for the outstanding job with your camp.” C&M – Parents
“I asked Alex what was the one thing he liked least about the camp and he said there wasn’t anything – that he liked everything! Thanks for making this a very wonderful experience for him!”
Cynthia Moreau, Parent of Alex Moreau