Nestled in the scenic heart of south-central Washington, Ekone Ranch is a unique camp experience located near the picturesque Simcoe Mountains in Goldendale. Founded on a sprawling ranch that boasts a rich history of connection to the land and community, Ekone Ranch offers a profound and rustic escape into nature.

Ekone Ranch was established with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and personal growth. It operates with a philosophy centered around the nurturing of relationships between people, and the land they inhabit. This philosophy is embedded in every aspect of camp life, encouraging campers to develop a deep, respectful connection with the natural world.

Ekone Ranch serves boys and girls across various age groups, typically ranging from 8 to 18 years old. The camp provides a variety of programs that emphasize outdoor education, horseback riding, wilderness skills, and personal development, all within a supportive and inclusive community setting.

At its core, Ekone Ranch is more than just a camp; it’s a place where young people can grow in confidence and independence, connect deeply with nature, and forge lifelong friendships. It stands as a beacon for those seeking an authentic ranch experience, filled with adventure, learning, and personal growth.

Programs Offered by Ekone Ranch

Ekone Ranch provides a diverse array of programs designed to immerse campers in the natural world and foster personal development through practical, hands-on experiences. Here is an overview of the key programs and what a typical day looks like at Ekone Ranch:

1. Horseback Riding Programs

Description: Central to Ekone’s offerings are its horseback riding programs. These sessions focus on horsemanship, trail riding, and horse care, tailored to different skill levels.
Length of Sessions: Offered in one-week or two-week increments, these programs allow for deep engagement with the equestrian lifestyle.
Specialty: The programs emphasize respectful and natural horsemanship techniques, with campers learning directly from experienced riders and caretakers.

2. Wilderness Skills Camp

Description: This program introduces campers to survival skills, including shelter building, firemaking, and orienteering. It’s designed to enhance self-reliance and awareness of the natural environment.
Length of Sessions: Typically one week, providing an intensive, immersive experience in wilderness survival.
Specialty: Focuses on practical, outdoor survival skills and environmental education.

3. Nature Exploration and Conservation

Description: Campers engage in activities that involve ecosystem exploration, wildlife tracking, and conservation projects that help maintain the ranch’s biodiversity.
Length of Sessions: Sessions can last from one to two weeks, offering an in-depth look at local ecology and conservation efforts.
Specialty: Combines education in environmental science with hands-on conservation work.

4. Creative Arts Retreat

Description: This program blends the beauty of the natural world with the creativity it inspires. Activities include painting, sculpture, photography, and more, all using natural and recycled materials.
Length of Sessions: Usually one week, perfect for diving deep into creative projects.
Specialty: Arts and crafts with an emphasis on using and appreciating natural materials.

Typical Daily Schedule

Morning:
- Wake-up call
- Morning chores (feeding animals, tending gardens)
- Breakfast
- Morning session (activity specific to the program, e.g., horseback riding or nature walk)
Afternoon:
- Lunch
- Rest period
- Afternoon session (continuation of morning activities or a new skill workshop)
- Free time for personal exploration or guided activities
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening gathering (campfire, storytelling, night hikes)
- Nightly chores
- Lights out

Each day at Ekone Ranch is structured to balance activity with adequate rest, providing a rhythm that enhances both learning and enjoyment. The combination of structured programs and free time allows campers to explore their interests deeply while developing a profound connection with nature and their peers.

Accommodations in Ekone Ranch

Ekone Ranch offers a rustic and immersive camping experience, with accommodations designed to enhance the connection between campers and the natural environment. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and facilities available at the ranch:

Sleeping Arrangements

Description: Accommodations at Ekone Ranch are designed to be simple and in harmony with the surrounding environment. Campers typically stay in:
- Cabins: These are rustic, wooden structures equipped with basic amenities, designed to house small groups of campers and facilitate a communal living experience.
- Tents: For more adventurous programs, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows them to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness experience, under the guidance and supervision of experienced staff.
Capacity: Both cabins and tents are organized to foster a sense of community and are grouped by age and program type to ensure a comfortable and supportive environment.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Ekone Ranch provides three well-balanced meals per day, prepared with fresh ingredients, often sourced locally or directly from the ranch itself. The meal plan is designed to be hearty and nutritious, fueling campers for their active days.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to individual needs, Ekone Ranch is committed to accommodating various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergies. Campers or their guardians are encouraged to communicate any specific needs in advance so that the kitchen staff can prepare accordingly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms: The camp is equipped with central bathroom facilities that are shared among campers and staff. These facilities are divided by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Showers: Shower facilities are also communal, with separate times designated for different groups to ensure privacy and comfort. The showers are designed to be eco-friendly, often encouraging short and efficient use to conserve water, reflecting the camp’s commitment to sustainability.

The accommodations at Ekone Ranch are all about blending simplicity with comfort, ensuring that while the facilities are basic, they are more than adequate for the needs of the campers. This approach not only aligns with the camp’s environmental ethos but also enhances the overall experience by keeping campers engaged with the natural world around them.

Activities in Ekone Ranch

Ekone Ranch offers a rich variety of activities that are thoughtfully designed to engage campers with the outdoors and help them develop a range of skills. Here’s a breakdown of the typical activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Horseback Riding: A cornerstone of Ekone Ranch, offering lessons in horsemanship, trail rides, and equine care.
Hiking: With trails winding through the beautiful landscapes around the ranch, hiking is a popular activity that also teaches about local flora and fauna.
Crafts: Utilizing natural materials found around the ranch, craft sessions allow campers to create everything from simple art projects to more complex constructions.
Archery: This activity helps develop focus and coordination, with safety and technique emphasized by experienced instructors.
Swimming: Depending on the season and weather, swimming in natural bodies of water nearby offers a refreshing break and lessons in water safety.
Farming and Gardening: Campers get hands-on experience in sustainable farming practices, including planting, tending, and harvesting organic crops.
Wilderness Survival Skills: These sessions include learning to build shelters, making fires safely, and understanding basic survival techniques.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and sharing experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
End-of-Session Rodeo or Showcase: An opportunity for campers to demonstrate their newly learned skills, whether it’s horseback riding prowess or a performance of a dance or song they’ve learned.
Annual Festivals: Depending on the time of year, special themed events or celebrations that highlight seasonal changes and local culture may be organized.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Summer camps often have the opportunity to take on leadership roles, guiding younger participants and helping manage daily activities.
Environmental Education: Many activities are geared towards learning about environmental conservation, promoting awareness, and fostering responsible stewardship of nature.
Personal Growth: Through various challenges, whether physical, creative, or emotional, campers are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, fostering resilience and self-confidence.

The activities at Ekone Ranch are crafted to provide a balance between fun and educational experiences, encouraging campers to learn new skills while making lasting memories. The ranch’s commitment to personal development and environmental consciousness shines through in its diverse offerings and special traditions.

The staff of Ekone Ranch

The staff at Ekone Ranch are carefully selected and trained to ensure a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. Here’s an overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, qualifications, and the training that staff members undergo:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Ekone Ranch maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and a high level of care and supervision. Typically, the ratio is about one staff member for every four to six campers, which allows staff to effectively oversee and engage with each camper, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff are typically recruited from a variety of sources, including local communities, through educational institutions, and via referrals from existing staff.
Selection: Candidates go through a rigorous selection process that includes detailed interviews, background checks, and reference checks to ensure suitability for the role and the safety of the campers.
Qualifications: Ideal candidates are those with prior experience in camping, education, or related fields. Specific skills related to the activities offered at the ranch (like horseback riding or wilderness survival) are highly valued. Additionally, a strong passion for working with children and a deep respect for nature are crucial traits for all staff members.

Training and Certifications

General Training: All new hires undergo comprehensive training that covers camp operations, emergency procedures, communication skills, and conflict resolution. This training ensures that all staff are prepared to handle day-to-day activities as well as any potential emergencies.
Specialized Certifications: Staff members are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Those involved in specific activities such as swimming or horseback riding may also hold additional certifications relevant to their roles, such as lifeguarding or equine safety.
Ongoing Professional Development: Ekone Ranch supports continuous learning and improvement through ongoing training sessions throughout the camping season. This includes updates on safety protocols, instructional techniques, and leadership skills.

The commitment to a well-trained and highly qualified staff ensures that Ekone Ranch provides a safe, supportive, and enriching camping experience for all participants. The staff are not only equipped to teach and lead activities but also to inspire and mentor campers, helping them to grow both personally and socially during their time at the ranch.

Safety and Health in Ekone Ranch

Ekone Ranch prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining facilities to manage both routine health needs and emergencies. Here is a detailed overview of the safety measures and health provisions in place at the ranch:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Risk Assessment: Regular risk assessments are conducted to identify potential hazards related to activities, facilities, and natural conditions at the ranch. These assessments help in developing targeted safety protocols.
Safety Training: All staff receive thorough safety training, which includes emergency response drills, proper use of equipment, and specific procedures for each activity offered at the camp.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity, especially those involving higher risk like horseback riding and archery, follows strict safety guidelines which are rigorously enforced to ensure camper safety.
Supervision: Constant and vigilant supervision is maintained during all activities, with staff members trained to keep safety as their top priority.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Ekone Ranch is equipped with a basic on-site health center staffed by a qualified healthcare professional, typically a nurse, who is available 24/7 to address any health concerns or injuries.
Medical Supplies and Equipment: The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment to treat minor injuries and manage common health issues. More complex medical conditions are promptly referred to nearby medical facilities.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing conditions or special medical needs. This information helps the staff tailor care to each individual camper.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Ekone Ranch has a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes protocols for various scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there are clear lines of communication both internally among staff and externally with local emergency services, parents, and guardians.
Evacuation Procedures: Detailed evacuation procedures are established and regularly practiced through drills. These procedures ensure that both staff and campers are well-prepared to respond quickly and efficiently in case an evacuation is necessary.
Partnerships with Local Emergency Services: The ranch maintains strong relationships with local emergency services to ensure rapid response times and coordinated efforts during more severe emergencies.

By maintaining strict safety protocols, equipped health facilities, and clear emergency policies, Ekone Ranch ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind, knowing that their well-being is a top priority.

Cost and Registration in Ekone Ranch

Attending Ekone Ranch provides a rich experience in personal growth and nature immersion. Here are the details regarding the cost of attendance, registration procedures, and financial considerations:

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost to attend Ekone Ranch varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Typically, fees range from $600 to $1,200 per week. This cost includes all lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and program materials.
What It Includes: The fees cover full participation in the camp program, including all meals, accommodations, supervision, and use of facilities and equipment. Transportation to and from the ranch is generally not included unless specifically stated.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Prospective campers can register through the Ekone Ranch website, where they will find the registration forms and additional information about each session.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the camp season and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as many programs fill up quickly.
Required Documentation: Along with the registration form, parents or guardians will need to submit health forms, a signed waiver, and any required consent forms for activities.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Ekone Ranch offers payment plans to help families manage the cost of attendance. These plans usually involve a deposit at the time of registration with the balance payable in installments leading up to the camp start date.
Refunds: A full refund is typically available until a certain cut-off date, which is usually a few months before the camp begins. After this date, refunds may be partial or not available, depending on the ranch’s policies.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of a cancellation by the camper’s family, fees may be partially refunded depending on how close to the camp start date the cancellation occurs. If Ekone Ranch must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances, full refunds are generally provided.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Scholarships: Ekone Ranch offers scholarships to help make camp accessible to all children, regardless of financial situation. These scholarships are often need-based, and families are encouraged to apply early.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various community organizations or through special funds established by the ranch to support families in need.

Ekone Ranch aims to be accessible to as many children as possible, offering a variety of financial assistance options to ensure that finances are not a barrier to experiencing all that the ranch has to offer.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Ekone Ranch

Preparing for a stay at Ekone Ranch involves understanding what to bring, familiarizing oneself with the camp’s rules and policies, and receiving practical advice for first-time campers and their parents. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure both campers and parents are well-prepared for the camp experience.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack enough for the session duration, including comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing such as t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, pants, shorts, and a jacket. Include a hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear (e.g., hiking boots).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets appropriate for the climate, plus a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Equipment: Any specific gear related to activities (if not provided by the camp), such as a water bottle, flashlight, and a small backpack.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and disposable cameras (if photography is permitted).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Ekone Ranch encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and fellow campers. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically discouraged or only allowed during specific times.
Visitation: Parents are usually invited to visit only on designated days to minimize disruption to the camp schedule and to maintain security. Detailed visitation policies are provided prior to the start of camp.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, the environment, and all camp facilities is a cornerstone of the camp’s philosophy. Campers are expected to follow all guidelines and instructions from the staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage with Others: Make an effort to participate fully and engage with other campers. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends and learn new skills.
- Be Open to New Experiences: Camp is a time to explore new activities that might be outside your comfort zone.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns, talk to the camp staff. They are there to help you have the best possible experience.
For Parents:
- Prepare Together: Go over the packing list with your camper to ensure nothing is forgotten. Discuss what the camp experience will be like, including the activities and the camp’s daily schedule.
- Set Expectations: Talk about communication during camp, how often you’ll send letters or emails, and what the camp’s policies are on phone calls.
- Stay Positive: If it’s your child’s first time at camp, reassure them about the fun they’re going to have and the new friends they’ll make. Keeping a positive outlook can help alleviate any pre-camp anxiety.

By following these guidelines and preparing accordingly, parents can help ensure that their camper will have a fulfilling and memorable experience at Ekone Ranch.

Ekone Ranch offers a unique and enriching experience for campers of all ages, set against the backdrop of the beautiful landscapes of south-central Washington. With a focus on horseback riding, nature exploration, and personal growth, the ranch provides an ideal setting for children and teenagers to step away from their daily routines and immerse themselves in a world of adventure and learning.

The carefully designed programs, combined with a dedicated staff, ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and guidance, fostering an environment where they can safely challenge themselves and explore their potential. The emphasis on community, environmental stewardship, and personal development resonates throughout every aspect of camp life, creating lasting impressions and lifelong lessons.