Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Wasatch Range near Provo, Utah, Trefoil Ranch is a haven of adventure and learning that has been empowering young girls since its establishment. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Utah’s rugged landscapes, the camp is ideally located near notable landmarks such as Mount Timpanogos and Provo River, providing a perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.

Trefoil Ranch was founded with the mission to build courage, confidence, and character in girls who make the world a better place. This philosophy resonates through all of its programs, aiming to foster independence, friendship, and a deep respect for nature.

As a Girl Scout camp, Trefoil Ranch is exclusively designed for girls and offers a wide range of programs tailored to various age groups, ranging from young girls to teenagers. At Trefoil Ranch, campers can expect a nurturing environment where they can explore their interests, develop new skills, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s horseback riding, hiking, or crafting, the camp provides an enriching experience that encourages girls to grow and challenge themselves in a supportive community setting.

Programs Offered by Trefoil Ranch

Trefoil Ranch offers a diverse array of programs that cater to the interests and developmental stages of its campers. Each program is designed to provide enriching experiences that promote personal growth, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Description of the Programs

The programs at Trefoil Ranch range from traditional camp activities to specialized sessions focusing on specific skills or themes. These include:

Outdoor Adventure: Emphasizes outdoor survival skills, orienteering, and environmental education.
Equestrian Programs: Offers various levels of horseback riding lessons, horse care, and equine science.
Creative Arts: Includes crafts, painting, photography, and theater arts workshops.
Water Sports: Features swimming, canoeing, and water safety classes.
Science and Nature: Focuses on hands-on environmental science projects and exploration.

Length of Sessions

The camp sessions vary in length to accommodate different age groups and preferences:

One-Week Sessions: Designed for younger campers or first-time participants, providing a brief yet comprehensive camping experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Allow for a deeper exploration of camp activities and more time for personal development.
Full Summer Options: Available for campers who wish to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience over several weeks.

Specialty Programs

Trefoil Ranch also offers specialty programs that focus on particular interests:

Leadership Development: Tailored for older campers, focusing on building leadership skills applicable both inside and outside of camp.
Adventure Trips: Includes off-site excursions to nearby national parks or other significant landmarks for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring.
STEM Camps: Engages campers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through fun, educational activities.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Trefoil Ranch is structured to balance activity with enough free time for personal exploration and relaxation. A typical day might look like:

7:30 AM: Wake-up and cabin clean-up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (e.g., horseback riding, arts and crafts)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (e.g., swimming, science projects)
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (e.g., campfire, talent show)
9:00 PM: Cabin time and preparation for bed
10:00 PM: Lights out

This schedule ensures that each camper experiences a full day of activities designed to be both fun and educational, fostering a sense of community and individual achievement.

Accommodations in Trefoil Ranch

Trefoil Ranch is designed to provide a comfortable and safe environment for all campers, ensuring a pleasant stay throughout their camping experience. Here’s a closer look at the accommodations available:

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Trefoil Ranch can look forward to staying in one of the following types of accommodations, all designed to foster a sense of camaraderie and community:

Cabins: The primary accommodation type, these cabins are spacious and well-ventilated, typically housing 8-12 campers along with a counselor. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal items.
Tents: For specific programs focusing on outdoor survival skills, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience.
Dormitory Style: For larger groups or special events, Trefoil Ranch also provides dormitory-style accommodations that include multiple beds in a larger shared space.

Dining Options

Trefoil Ranch is committed to providing nutritious and delicious meals to keep campers energized throughout their busy days. The dining services include:

Meal Plans: Camp meals are served three times a day in the communal dining hall. The menus are varied throughout the camp session to ensure a balanced diet and to cater to the tastes of all campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers may have dietary restrictions, Trefoil Ranch offers options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific dietary needs. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary requirements with the camp staff before arrival to ensure appropriate accommodations.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near all sleeping quarters. These facilities are:

Gender Segregated: Separate facilities for male and female campers ensure privacy and comfort.
Well-Maintained: The bathrooms and showers are cleaned and maintained regularly to meet hygiene standards.
Equipped with Essentials: Hot water, showers, sinks, and toilets are available, along with areas for changing clothes.

Overall, Trefoil Ranch aims to make the camping experience as comfortable as possible, with well-thought-out accommodations that allow campers to focus on enjoying their activities and learning new skills in a supportive environment.

Activities in Trefoil Ranch

Trefoil Ranch offers a wide range of activities designed to engage, educate, and entertain campers. These activities not only provide fun and excitement but also help in developing valuable skills and lifelong interests.

List of Activities Offered

Campers at Trefoil Ranch can participate in a variety of activities including:

Swimming and Water Sports: Summer camps can enjoy swimming lessons, free swim times, and water games in the camp’s pool.
Hiking: The camp’s proximity to natural trails offers numerous opportunities for guided hikes to explore local flora and fauna.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts sessions allow campers to express their creativity through different mediums such as pottery, painting, and textile arts.
Horseback Riding: With an on-site stable, campers can learn about horse care and take riding lessons tailored to their experience level.
Archery: This is a popular activity that teaches focus and precision, available for all skill levels.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Campers learn practical skills like fire-building, orienteering, and shelter construction.
Environmental Education: Programs designed to foster a deeper understanding of ecological systems and the importance of conservation.

Special Events or Traditions

Trefoil Ranch is rich in traditions that create memorable experiences and foster a strong camp community:

Campfires: Regular campfire nights include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, creating a warm, communal atmosphere.
End-of-Camp Gala: A celebratory event that allows campers to showcase their talents and achievements from their time at camp.
Theme Days: Special days where activities are centered around a specific theme, such as “Pirate Day” or “Space Exploration,” adding a fun and educational twist to the daily routine.

Skill Development Opportunities

The camp’s activities are structured to help campers develop a range of skills:

Leadership: Through team activities and designated leadership roles, campers enhance their ability to lead and work collaboratively.
Problem Solving: Many activities, especially outdoor survival skills, require critical thinking and creative problem-solving.
Artistic Expression: Arts and crafts activities provide the space for personal expression and artistic growth.
Physical Fitness: Activities like swimming, horseback riding, and hiking promote physical health and wellness.
Environmental Stewardship: By engaging with nature directly, campers learn the value of environmental conservation and responsible outdoor behaviors.

Trefoil Ranch is dedicated to providing a supportive environment where every camper can try new things, hone existing skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world. The combination of fun activities, special events, and skill development opportunities makes Trefoil Ranch a unique and enriching place for young girls to spend their summer.

The staff of Trefoil Ranch

The success of Trefoil Ranch is largely due to its dedicated and skilled staff who ensure that every camper’s experience is safe, enjoyable, and enriching. Here is an overview of the staffing structure, including the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, and the qualifications required for staff members.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Trefoil Ranch is committed to providing a high level of supervision and personalized attention to each camper. The camp maintains a favorable staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that:

Every camper receives the necessary support and guidance.
Safety standards are rigorously upheld.
Staff can effectively manage and deliver quality programs.

Typically, the ratio is around 1 staff member for every 6-8 campers, which allows staff to engage closely with each camper and address individual needs and concerns.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Trefoil Ranch is thorough to ensure that all staff members are not only qualified but also share the camp’s values and mission. Key aspects of the hiring process include:

Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are conducted to ensure the safety and security of the campers.
Education and Experience: Candidates with backgrounds in education, child development, or a related field are preferred. Experience in camp settings or with youth programs is highly valued.
Interviews: In-depth interviews help assess candidates’ compatibility with the camp’s culture and their ability to handle the responsibilities of the role.

Training and Certifications

All staff members at Trefoil Ranch are required to undergo rigorous training and obtain certain certifications to ensure they are well-prepared for any situation that might arise during camp. These include:

CPR and First Aid Certification: All staff must be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond promptly and effectively to health emergencies.
Child Protection Training: Staff are trained in child protection policies and procedures to maintain a safe and supportive environment for all campers.
Specific Skill Training: For activities such as horseback riding, swimming, or archery, additional specialized training and certifications may be required, depending on the role of the staff member.

Additionally, before the camp season begins, staff participate in an extensive orientation that covers camp operations, emergency procedures, communication skills, and team-building exercises. This preparation ensures that staff members are not only equipped with the necessary technical skills but also understand the psychological and emotional needs of the campers.

Through these meticulous hiring practices and comprehensive training programs, Trefoil Ranch ensures that its staff is highly qualified and capable of creating a safe, engaging, and fun camp experience for all participants.

Safety and Health in Trefoil Ranch

Ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers and staff is a top priority at Trefoil Ranch. The camp is committed to maintaining a secure environment through stringent safety protocols, well-equipped health facilities, and comprehensive policies for handling emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Trefoil Ranch has established a variety of safety protocols and procedures to prevent incidents and ensure a rapid response in case of emergencies:

Regular Safety Drills: The camp conducts regular drills, including fire, earthquake, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff know how to react in different emergency situations.
Activity-Specific Safety Gear and Rules: All activities, especially those involving physical risks like horseback riding or archery, are conducted under strict safety guidelines with the necessary protective gear.
Constant Supervision: Campers are under continuous supervision by trained staff members to monitor and promptly address any safety concerns.
Secure Camp Grounds: The camp facility is secured and monitored to prevent unauthorized access and ensure the safety of campers and staff.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Trefoil Ranch is equipped with on-site health facilities to manage health issues effectively:

Health Center: The camp has a dedicated health center staffed by qualified health professionals such as nurses or paramedics. This facility is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize conditions in case of serious medical emergencies before transportation to a hospital.
Medication Management: The health center staff manages and dispenses medications as per the prescriptions and instructions provided by parents and guardians.
Accessibility for All Campers: The health facilities are accessible and equipped to cater to campers with special health needs.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

The camp has comprehensive emergency policies in place to handle various potential scenarios:

Emergency Contact and Communication Plan: Parents are provided with clear instructions on how to reach the camp in case of an emergency. The camp also has protocols for communicating with parents and guardians in the event of an incident involving their child.
Evacuation Procedures: In the event of a natural disaster or other emergency requiring evacuation, the camp has predefined routes and procedures to safely evacuate all campers and staff.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Trefoil Ranch works closely with local emergency services and hospitals to ensure quick response times and coordinated efforts during serious incidents.
Continuous Training: All camp staff participate in ongoing training sessions to stay updated on the best practices for emergency preparedness and response.

By adhering to these stringent safety protocols, maintaining robust on-site health facilities, and implementing detailed emergency policies, Trefoil Ranch ensures a safe and healthy environment for all campers, allowing them to enjoy their camp experience with peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Trefoil Ranch

Trefoil Ranch aims to provide a valuable and accessible camping experience. Below is detailed information about the cost of attendance, the registration process, and the financial options available to families.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Trefoil Ranch varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs selected. Generally, the fees include:

Accommodation and Meals: All housing and meals are covered in the cost of attendance.
All Program Activities: This includes all scheduled activities, such as horseback riding, crafts, swimming, and archery.
Camp Equipment and Supplies: Necessary equipment for activities and basic supplies are provided.
24/7 Supervision and Care: Professional supervision by trained staff to ensure camper safety and well-being.

Prices typically range from $300 to $800 per session, depending on the duration and type of program.

Registration Process and Deadlines

The registration process for Trefoil Ranch is straightforward:

Online Registration: Parents can register their children.
Required Documentation: During registration, parents will need to submit medical forms, emergency contact information, and any necessary consent forms.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the camp season, with deadlines set about one to two months prior to the start of each session. Early registration is encouraged as spaces fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Understanding that families have different financial needs, Trefoil Ranch offers several financial accommodations:

Payment Plans: Flexible payment plans are available, allowing parents to pay the camp fees in installments.
Refunds: A refund policy is in place, which typically allows for a full or partial refund up until a certain date before the camp session begins, barring a nominal administration fee.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation by the camp (due to unforeseen circumstances like extreme weather), full refunds are usually provided. For cancellations by participants, terms may vary based on how close to the camp date the cancellation occurs.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Trefoil Ranch is dedicated to making camp accessible to as many children as possible:

Scholarships: Need-based scholarships are available to help cover a portion of the camp fees. These scholarships are awarded based on family income and other factors.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid options may be available, and parents are encouraged to inquire with the camp administration for more details.

Trefoil Ranch encourages interested families to contact the camp directly for the most accurate and detailed information regarding costs, registration specifics, and financial aid options, ensuring that all potential campers have the opportunity to experience the joy and growth that the camp offers.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Trefoil Ranch

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready for the upcoming camp experience at Trefoil Ranch, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to pack, understand the camp’s rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

To help campers have a comfortable and enjoyable time at Trefoil Ranch, here is a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the duration of the stay, including weather-appropriate attire such as t-shirts, shorts, pants, and warm layers. Include a rain jacket and sturdy footwear suitable for hiking and outdoor activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel.
Special Gear: Swimsuit, hat, sunglasses, and any specific gear related to activities (e.g., riding boots for horseback riding if owned).
Medications: Clearly labeled, with instructions for use.

Rules and Policies

Understanding and adhering to the camp’s rules and policies is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and connection with the environment and each other, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are typically not allowed or are restricted to certain times and places.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the program, visitation by family members is usually limited to specific visiting days or is not allowed without prior arrangement.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, respect fellow campers and staff, and participate actively in scheduled activities.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For those new to the camp experience, here are some tips to make the transition smoother:

Familiarize with Camp Life: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. This can help reduce any anxiety.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to practice skills like packing their own bag, making their bed, and choosing their clothes to build confidence in managing themselves.
Communication: Explain how and when they can communicate with you during their time at camp. Reassure them that it’s okay to miss home, but there will be plenty of fun and support at camp.
Visit the Camp Virtually or in Person: If possible, visit the camp’s website to view photos and videos, or attend a pre-camp orientation to become familiar with the camp’s layout and staff.

By preparing well, following the rules, and setting realistic expectations, both first-time and returning campers can look forward to a memorable and enriching experience at Trefoil Ranch.

Trefoil Ranch stands out as a premier destination for girls seeking a summer filled with growth, adventure, and new friendships. Nestled in the beautiful landscape near Provo, Utah, the camp offers a variety of programs that cater to different interests and age groups, from horseback riding and hiking to crafts and science. With a commitment to safety, inclusivity, and personal development, Trefoil Ranch provides a supportive environment where campers can explore their passions and challenge themselves.

The camp’s robust infrastructure, from well-equipped health facilities to experienced and caring staff, ensures that every camper’s experience is safe, enjoyable, and enriching. The thoughtful rules and preparation guidelines further facilitate a smooth transition for both campers and their parents, making Trefoil Ranch a trusted choice for those looking for a meaningful camp experience.