Playing with Purpose
There’s a lot more happening when kids play sports than just learning how to pass a ball, make a shot, or improve a personal best. Sports give kids a place to practice perseverance, teamwork, confidence, and how to both lead and support others. They learn to celebrate a teammate’s success, keep going when something is […]
It Started With Someone Showing Up
This past year, our team has made a concerted effort to connect with and prioritize small Jewish communities; places where Jewish summer camp may not always be part of the conversation. For our Camp Director, Katelyn Skeen, this work is personal. Katelyn came to Ranch Camp 18 years ago, from the small community of Los […]
Two Camp Traditions, More Ways to Find Your Place
This summer, we shared some big news: JCC Ranch Camp is taking over ownership and management of Maccabi Sports Camp, bringing two established Jewish overnight camp experiences together at the Ranch beginning in Summer 2027. As you may know, JCC Ranch Camp has been offering a residential Jewish experience in Elbert, Colorado since 1953. For […]
Why Camp Matters Long After Summer Ends
Camp ends. The trunks get unpacked, the friendship bracelets slowly fall off, and eventually the camp songs stop being sung quite so constantly. But some of the most valuable parts of camp are actually designed to come home with kids. We often talk about overnight camp as a place where kids build independence. And they […]
Saying Goodbye: Reflections on Session 1
As we prepare to say goodbye to our incredible Session 1 campers, we’re filled with a mix of pride, gratitude, and a touch of sadness. The past two weeks have been filled with song, sunshine, adventure, and deep connection. While we’re not quite ready for it to end, we are so proud of everything your […]
Bringing the Light: A First Week Reflection from JCC Ranch Camp
There’s a special kind of energy that fills camp in the first week: the sounds of new friendships forming, the sight of campers learning their way from cabin to corral, and the joy of song sessions that echo across the hills. This week, we officially kicked off Summer 2025 with over a hundred campers, ranging […]
Embracing the Present Moment
At camp, every moment is a new adventure. Whether it’s navigating a high ropes course, singing around the campfire, or simply lying under a star-filled sky, the present becomes our playground. The essence of summer camp is found in these fleeting experiences that capture our full attention and immerse us in the beauty of the […]
Discovering the Magic of Animals at Ranch Camp
Ranch Camp is more than just a place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life; it’s a sanctuary where nature and human connection come alive in the most profound ways. One of the most cherished aspects of Ranch Camp is the diverse array of animals that campers get to interact with—horses, goats, sheep, […]
Session 2 – Shabbat Shalom!
We have had an incredibly fun filled and action packed start to Session 2 at Ranch Camp! We’re so excited to begin this incredible journey with all our Session 2 campers. As they settle into bunks, meet counselors, start exploring, and preparing for our first Shabbat together, let’s take a moment to reflect on the […]
Celebrating Final Moments: The Close of Session 1
At Ranch Camp, the end of the session is a time filled with reflection, joy, and celebration. As the days of our first session wind down, the camp comes together to honor the growth, achievements, and bonds forged over weeks of shared experiences. The final moments at Ranch Camp are more than just a closing […]