Nestled in the scenic town of Story, Wyoming, Thorne-Rider Youth Camp offers a picturesque backdrop for young adventurers to explore and grow. Surrounded by lush forests and close to the majestic Big Horn Mountains, the camp provides an idyllic setting for a variety of outdoor activities.

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp has a rich history of fostering youth development through immersive outdoor experiences. Established with the vision of creating a nurturing environment for children and teenagers, the camp has become a beloved summer destination, enriching the lives of its campers through nature-based education and recreation.

The camp’s mission is to inspire young individuals by providing engaging, challenging, and educational outdoor experiences that promote personal growth and a lifelong appreciation for the natural world. This philosophy is rooted in the belief that outdoor activities and environmental stewardship are fundamental to developing well-rounded individuals.

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp is designed for both boys and girls, accommodating various age groups. The camp provides a structured yet fun environment where campers can enjoy activities tailored to their age and interests, promoting both individual achievements and community bonding. Whether it’s hiking, camping, or learning about local wildlife, the camp offers a robust program that caters to the adventurous spirit of all its attendees.

Programs Offered by Thorne-Rider Youth Camp

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp provides a variety of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching experience. The camp’s offerings are thoughtfully structured to blend fun, education, and personal growth.

Description of Programs

The camp offers general sessions that encompass a wide range of activities including hiking, swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, and environmental education. These activities are aimed at developing skills, building character, and fostering an appreciation for nature among campers.

Length of Sessions

The sessions at Thorne-Rider Youth Camp are flexible, ranging from one-week programs to two-week programs. This allows families to choose the duration that best fits their schedules and the camper’s comfort level. Some campers may also choose to stay for multiple sessions, experiencing a full summer of adventure and fun.

Specialty Programs

In addition to the general camp activities, Thorne-Rider offers specialty programs that focus on particular interests:

Arts: These sessions are designed for campers interested in exploring their creative side through various forms of art such as painting, sculpture, and performance arts.
Sports: For those interested in physical activities, the camp provides sports-focused programs that include traditional sports like soccer and basketball, as well as outdoor sports like archery and rock climbing.
Science: Tailored for young explorers keen on science and nature, these programs include hands-on activities like wildlife studies and botany, enhancing learning through practical experiences.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Thorne-Rider Youth Camp is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, free time, and rest. Here’s how a day might look:

7:30 AM: Wake-up call
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (e.g., hiking, canoeing)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest period/Free time
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program sessions)
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Lights out

This schedule is designed to keep campers engaged and entertained while also providing adequate rest and downtime to recharge for the next day’s adventures.

Accommodations in Thorne-Rider Youth Camp

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp offers comfortable and safe accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while providing all the necessary amenities to ensure campers feel at home.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The camp features cozy, rustic cabins that are typically shared between 8 to 10 campers. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to ensure comfort and appropriateness for all campers.
Tents: For older campers or special wilderness programs, there are options to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, sleeping under the stars and learning basic camping skills.
Dorms: Some programs might utilize dormitory-style accommodations, especially for larger groups or special events. These dorms are equipped with multiple bunk beds and communal living spaces.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Thorne-Rider Youth Camp provides three well-balanced meals per day, included in the cost of the camp. Meals are served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat together, fostering a sense of community.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of nutrition and dietary needs, the camp offers various meal options to accommodate special dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary needs with the camp staff during registration to ensure appropriate meals are provided.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom Facilities: Strategically located throughout the camp, modern bathroom facilities are accessible to all campers from their cabins or activity areas. These facilities are maintained regularly to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Shower Facilities: Shower facilities are available in separate areas, providing hot and cold water. The showers are gender-separated and offer privacy and convenience for all campers. The camp ensures that these facilities are cleaned and sanitized daily to meet health and safety standards.

Overall, Thorne-Rider Youth Camp is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment that allows campers to focus on their activities and interactions without worrying about basic comforts.

Activities in Thorne-Rider Youth Camp

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp offers a dynamic range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. The camp’s programs encourage physical activity, creativity, team building, and personal growth.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and archery.
Water Sports: Swimming, kayaking, and fishing in the nearby lake.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, pottery, and drama workshops.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee.
Nature Exploration: Bird watching, stargazing, and environmental education sessions.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
End-of-Camp Carnival: A festive event where campers can participate in games, face painting, and a variety of fun activities, celebrating the end of their session.
Thorne-Rider Olympics: An annual event where campers compete in various sports and activities, promoting healthy competition and team spirit.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Programs specifically designed for older campers to develop leadership skills, including team management and conflict resolution.
Environmental Stewardship: Educational programs that focus on conservation and sustainability practices, teaching campers the importance of protecting nature.
Survival Skills Workshops: Sessions that teach practical skills like orienteering, fire building, and safe wildlife encounters.

Through these activities and special events, Thorne-Rider Youth Camp not only provides fun and excitement but also important learning experiences that contribute to the development of lifelong skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.

The staff of Thorne-Rider Youth Camp

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp is committed to providing a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers, facilitated by a dedicated and well-trained staff. Here’s how the camp ensures high-quality supervision and guidance:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

The camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. Typically, the ratio is about one staff member for every six to eight campers. This ratio allows for effective supervision and a more personalized camping experience, ensuring that safety and individual needs are adequately addressed.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Thorne-Rider Youth Camp hires staff through a rigorous selection process. Candidates are often recruited from educational institutions, previous camp staff, or through referrals.
Qualifications: Prospective staff members must have a strong background in child care or education, relevant experience in the activities offered at the camp, and a genuine passion for working with children.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo thorough background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verification, to ensure the safety and security of all campers.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff members attend a comprehensive training program. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and activity planning.
Certifications: All staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or specific activity instructor certifications (e.g., archery, rock climbing), are required for staff overseeing particular activities.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing training and feedback to continually enhance their skills and effectiveness in their roles.

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp takes pride in its competent and caring staff, who are crucial to creating a nurturing environment where campers can learn and grow while feeling secure and supported.

Safety and Health in Thorne-Rider Youth Camp

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp prioritizes the safety and well-being of all its campers and staff. The camp implements rigorous safety protocols and maintains comprehensive health facilities to ensure a secure and responsive environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are prepared for any unexpected situations.
Activity Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff members trained in that specific area. For instance, water activities are always supervised by lifeguards, and climbing instructors oversee rock climbing. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to high safety standards.
Restricted Access: The campsite is secured with controlled access, ensuring that only authorized personnel and campers are permitted on the grounds. This helps maintain a safe environment for everyone at the camp.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Thorne-Rider Youth Camp houses a well-equipped health center that is staffed around the clock during camp sessions. The health center is capable of handling minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medical supplies.
Medical Staff: The camp employs qualified health professionals, such as nurses or paramedics, who are present at the camp at all times. These professionals are trained to handle a range of medical situations, from minor ailments to emergency responses.
Partnerships with Local Hospitals: For more serious medical issues, the camp has arrangements with nearby hospitals to ensure quick and efficient transport and treatment.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Thorne-Rider Youth Camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines procedures for various potential emergencies, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols in place for communicating with parents and guardians as quickly as possible. This includes initial notifications and ongoing updates until the situation is resolved.
Training: All staff members undergo specific training on how to handle emergencies effectively and calmly, ensuring they can provide the best possible support to campers and coordinate with local emergency services when necessary.

By maintaining stringent safety protocols and having robust health and emergency facilities in place, Thorne-Rider Youth Camp ensures a safe, enjoyable, and secure environment for all its campers and staff.

Cost and Registration in Thorne-Rider Youth Camp

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp offers an enriching summer experience with a clear and comprehensive registration and payment structure to accommodate families’ needs.

Cost of Attendance: The cost for a two-week session at Thorne-Rider Youth Camp is $1,950. This fee includes:

Lodging in rustic cabins
All meals and snacks
Program activities and materials
Use of camp equipment
Trained staff supervision
A camp T-shirt and water bottle

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children for camp through an online portal. This system allows for the selection of session dates, specialty programs, and any dietary or medical needs.
Deadlines: It is recommended to register early as spots can fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for registration are typically set a few months before the start of the session, with reminders sent to parents via email.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Thorne-Rider Youth Camp offers flexible payment plans, allowing families to pay in installments leading up to the camp session. This can ease the financial burden and make the camp more accessible.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a certain date, beyond which a cancellation fee may apply. If cancellation occurs very close to the camp start date, the refund may be partial or non-existent, depending on the camp’s policies.
Cancellation Policies: Detailed information about cancellations due to illness or family emergencies is provided during registration, ensuring families understand their options.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Thorne-Rider Youth Camp offers scholarships based on need and merit. These are designed to make camp accessible to as many children as possible, regardless of financial background.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various programs. Parents are encouraged to apply early for these opportunities as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

By offering flexible payment options, clear information on costs and inclusions, and support through financial aid, Thorne-Rider Youth Camp strives to make its valuable programs available to a wide range of families, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the joys and learning that the camp offers.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Thorne-Rider Youth Camp

Preparing for camp can be an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Thorne-Rider Youth Camp provides detailed guidelines to ensure that everyone is ready for a fun and fulfilling camp experience.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need, the following items are recommended:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket and a sturdy pair of hiking boots.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or blankets and a pillow, as cabins may not provide these.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Mosquito repellent is also a must.
Gear: Flashlight, water bottle, and a backpack for day hikes.
Optional Items: Books, a camera (non-digital if possible), and writing materials for those quiet moments.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and ensure all campers are present at the moment, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted. Devices may be collected upon arrival and returned at departure.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated days, usually mid-session, to meet with staff and see camp life in action. Specific details and schedules are provided prior to the camp start.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is expected at all times. Specific rules regarding conduct will be provided in the camper handbook.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Embrace every activity and try something new. Camp is a great place to explore different interests and develop new skills.
- Remember that everyone is in the same situation – it’s okay to feel a bit homesick but don’t let it stop you from having fun.
For Parents:
- Discuss what to expect at camp with your child, focusing on the positive aspects like making new friends and learning new things.
- Send letters or care packages to show support and boost your child’s morale.
- Trust the camp staff. They are experienced in handling all aspects of camp life, including homesickness and any anxieties your child may have.

Preparing for camp by understanding the rules, packing appropriately, and setting the right expectations helps ensure that the camp experience is enjoyable and stress-free for both campers and their parents.

Thorne-Rider Youth Camp in Story, Wyoming, stands out as a beacon of adventure, learning, and growth. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Big Horn Mountains, the camp offers an array of programs and activities designed to engage young minds, encourage physical activity, and foster a deep appreciation for nature. With a focus on safety, community, and personal development, Thorne-Rider provides a nurturing environment where campers can explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lifelong friendships.

The camp’s commitment to quality and safety is evident in its carefully selected staff, well-maintained facilities, and comprehensive safety protocols. Flexible registration options, financial aid, and a strong support system for first-time campers and their parents ensure that the camp experience is accessible and enjoyable for all.