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SUMMER DAY CAMP
The importance of getting children safely outdoors and active with friends just keeps shining through more clearly. The Colorado Mountain Ranch proclaims the incredible value of the camp experience while holding tight to its philosophy, mission, and goals. Operations, programs, and schedules continue to adjust to keep your children safe again this summer in “their own place in the mountains.”
For an Overview of Health Protocols, CLICK HERE.
The Camp Experience
Studies show that connections to both the natural world and other people in a positive community are essential to build a healthy emotional and physical foundation in development. Beyond simply facilitating activities, our overall camp experience helps young people develop their sense of compassion and define meaning in their lives.
PHILOSOPHY
The Colorado Mountain Ranch believes in the simplicity of getting kids outdoors and having fun, surrounded by nature and supported by the camp community. We never underestimate the power that fun, laughter, and joy can bring to a child’s world.
MISSION
To support youth to develop a positive foundation in self and community.
GOALS
The Colorado Mountain Ranch strives to provide opportunities for children:
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To gain understanding and build relationships with self, others, nature, and community.
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To build skills physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually through quality connections with people, place, and programs.
The People
Family owned and operated since 1947
THE WALKER FAMILY
Mike, Lynn, and Gail, the owners and administrators of The Colorado Mountain Ranch, are lifetime youth workers and educators. Jojo, Kate, Josie, and Rosie Walker continue as the third-generation work team at the Ranch.
OUR AMAZING STAFF
During the summer season all staff members live full-time at the Ranch, forming the heart of our camp's family feel. Counselors are selected on the basis of personality, experience and ability to guide children toward their full potential, with many staff members returning to The Ranch year after year. Our hiring process includes thorough interviewing and reference checking to assess each candidate's ability to care for children. We also conduct thorough background checks according to Colorado Child Care Licensing requirements.
STAFF ORIENTATION AND TRAINING
Before summer camp begins, staff members participate in a weeklong orientation covering Colorado Mountain Ranch policies and procedures, child abuse laws, skill training, discipline, and child development. In-service trainings and sharing sessions continue weekly throughout the summer.
STAFF TO CHILD RATIO
We enforce a minimum 1:6 staff-to-child ratio to provide each child with a high level of individual attention.
GROUPS, COUNSELORS, AND FRIENDS
Group counselors are always with their groups, providing constant guidance and encouragement. Groups are organized by school grade levels, with usually 2-3 grade levels in a group. Friends can choose to be grouped together, and those not already paired with old friends are in different groups together. This makes it easier for kids to find new friends.
QUALIFIED INSTRUCTORS
Each activity is overseen by specialized instructors who present a progressive curriculum for the week. Instructors and group counselors work together to offer supervision that balances safety, confidence building, and FUN!
The Programs
PROGRAMS
The Colorado Mountain Ranch offers one of the most extensive day camp programs available anywhere:
EXPLORERS | Grades 2-8
Activity sampler including introductions and practice time in all camp activities.
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MOUNTAINEERS | Grades 7-11
Focus on Outdoor Living Skills, Out-of-camp Excursions, and choices of favorite activities.
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WESTER RIDERS | Grades 6-12
Plenty of horse time, western riding, and choices of favorite activities.
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COUNSELORS-IN-TRAINING | Grades 9-12
A teen leadership mentor program where teens get to know each other and learn to assist an activity instructor or a senior staff counselor with younger groups of campers.
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COLORADO CHILD CARE LICENSING
The Colorado Mountain Ranch programs are licensed by the Colorado State Department of Human Services.
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TESTIMONIALS
"Thank you so much for giving my girls the opportunity of a lifetime. They had a fantastic time and will cherish all of the wonderful memories. Thank you for letting us join your family."
– Sarah, Mom of campers Shelby and Lexis
“I can’t tell you how much the boys loved camp. If I could have dreamed of a fantasy summer camp for my kids I could never have dreamed anything so loving and fun as the camp you have created. You and your staff are very, very special. This summer has been pivotal for my boys. They relaxed, they were loved, and most of all, they gained confidence in themselves.”
- SB, Parent
“My son Zach spent two weeks at your camp this summer. He loved every moment of it. As a parent it was amazing to see how happy he was each day coming off the bus. Thank you for providing such a special environment and memories for our children.”
- Amy Carpenter, Parent