THE INEXPLICABLE HAPPINESS OF SAYING “I’M AN ARTIST” INSTEAD OF “I’M A PATIENT.”
Rekindling childhood joy is The Power of Camp. And nowhere is that more proven than at our campsite.
For Summer Camp and Family Camp sessions, our breathtaking, awe-inspiring camp is nestled along the Colorado River. Roundup River Ranch sits on 125 acres in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, 50 miles west of Vail. It is a true testament to the healing power of place. It feels like a million miles from doctors’ offices and worries. It is off the beaten path, where Mother Nature’s wonder is seen in all directions. The road leading into camp is winding, quiet and serene – taking everyone back in time to simpler modes of play and depositing visitors into a setting that is wonderfully welcoming. Even first-time campers say that their arrival at Roundup River Ranch feels like coming home.
High-fives for our elevation height.
While we are in the mountains, our camp is at 6300 feet elevation. That’s a much safer altitude for camper health than higher locations. It offers children with more diagnoses to still get to experience the healing power of mountain sunrises, fresh air, starry nights and the wonders of the great outdoors. See the diagnoses we serve>
What does this campsite mean to parents?
This stunning getaway in the mountains is full of healing and hope for campers. But it also offers incredible peace of mind for parents. From the moment campers are greeted with a deluge of hugs and smiles and welcoming counselors and volunteers, to the day parents pick up kids who are suddenly full of courage and life-changing memories, this campsite is special. With full medical, physical, and emotional support from healthcare professionals, trained staff and dedicated volunteers, parents are assured campers are taken care of, mentally and physically. That means parents can soak up some well-deserved time for respite. And that’s important, because taking time to rejuvenate and replenish is the most powerful thing they can do for their family.
CAMP ACTIVITIES
From adventurous challenges to artistic exploration, every activity encourages campers to try something new and make lasting memories. Our intentional programming philosophy means campers choose what they want to tackle, push themselves to try new things, and celebrate with all of camp for their accomplishments.
Nestled in a canyon along the Colorado River, Roundup River Ranch sits on 125 acres at an elevation of 6,300 feet in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. It is a place that feels a million miles from doctors’ offices and worries. It is off the beaten path, where Mother Nature’s wonder is seen in all directions. Roundup River Ranch Camp is located approximately three hours from Denver.
Our picturesque camp sits nestled between the Rocky Mountains and the Colorado River. When camp is in session, Roundup River Ranch becomes 125-acres of total joy and laughter. Please check out our camp map detailing our camp program areas, buildings, and other camp features.
Have questions or want to get in touch? We’re here to help! Reach out to learn more about our programs, volunteer opportunities, events, or ways to support Roundup River Ranch.
Camp is FREE for all of our campers and their families. Whoo-hoo! Yippee!
Most of our campers come from Colorado, but each summer we welcome children from across 11 states, including Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. We also consider applications from outside our region on a case-by-case basis. For our online programs, campers can connect with kids from anywhere in the U.S.!
You mean awesome? Of course! But even more amazing– you’ll probably meet kids who are going through the very same things you are. Our campers often remark that they never feel “different” when they’re at Roundup River Ranch, and that creates a true sense of belonging. At camp, we celebrate our differences and similarities. You will meet campers from many backgrounds, all of whom have a life-altering diagnosis. Most of the time, you will meet other campers who are on the same or similar health journey as you. We promise everyone you meet will make you feel welcomed as a member of our camp family.
We offer three types of camp programs – always FREE of charge.
Onsite Residential Programs: Week-long Summer Camps for diagnosed campers ages 7–17, and weekend Family Camps for diagnosed campers ages 5–17 and their families.
Outreach Programs: Camp experiences delivered beyond our campsite through activity boxes, community partnerships, interactive online programs, family events, and monthly broadcasts in Seacrest Studios at Children’s Hospital Colorado—bringing creativity, connection, and camp-style fun year-round.
Alumni Programs: Opportunities for former campers to stay engaged through online and in-person alumni gatherings, as well as the onsite Spurs leadership program.
We welcome children with a wide range of life-altering medical diagnoses. For a full list of qualifying conditions, please visit our Eligibility page. While we would love to include every child who applies, space is limited. Each application is carefully reviewed by our Medical Team and Camp Team to ensure the best experience for every camper.
Outreach Programs
Alumni Programs
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