Programs for Many Needs

The Ranch provides valuable, lifelong lessons, and serves as a unique form of therapy. Because its primary focus is on helping children and families served through Great Circle programs, there are limited opportunities to accommodate outside groups.

Adventure Programs – Children in Great Circle’s care visit the Ranch periodically during their stay to build personal efficacy, healthy relationships, and purpose through outdoor skill-building (Scouting, team development, sailing, climbing, lifeguarding, primitive skills, etc.).

Summer Camps – Exhilarating and therapeutic activities for the youngsters Great Circle serves that combine adventure and fun to create an environment focused on providing opportunities for growth and healing.

• Outdoor Adventure Camp – July 29-August 2. Designed for youth ages 7-18 on the autism spectrum. This week-long camp is a break from day-to-day living and the chance to explore the outdoors in an exciting, supportive and safe environment. Space is limited to 36 campers. Click here to learn more.
• Sibling Adventure Camp – June 20-29 & July 22-26. For siblings ages 7-17 currently in foster care in Missouri, this program enables campers to spend time together and rebuild relationships while enjoying outdoor adventures. There is a 10-day and 5-day camp option. Cost is covered by the State of Missouri’s Children’s Division. Click here to learn more.

Open weeks include:

• June 21-30 – Adventure Camp for siblings in foster care: Children, ages 6-17 and living in different foster homes, can rebuild sibling bonds while enjoying outdoor activities. Fee is paid through Missouri Children’s Division. Online enrollment begins Jan. 31. Click to register (Choose the “Meramec Adventure Learning Ranch” camp option when prompted). For questions or information about eligibility, call 573-775-5513.
• July 30-August 3 – Camp for youth on the autism spectrum: Skilled staff support and guide campers, ages 6-18, with an autism spectrum diagnosis through adventure and outdoor activities to inspire growth in social skills, personal efficacy and friendships. Click for more information.

Wilderness Programs – Trained staff lead small groups of youth in Great Circle’s care on intensive off-Ranch trips to some of the country’s most beautiful and rugged areas. It’s an opportunity to focus on personal identity, intentional and sustained growth, and finding their places in a hurting world. Trips include backpacking expeditions, mountain biking treks, primitive skills journeys and paddling voyages.

Youth and School Experiences – Outdoor adventure programs are ideal for schools, athletic teams, community and church groups, scouting programs, and other groups. Programming is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each group.

Corporate Retreat and Team Development – The Ranch is a unique location to boost corporate camaraderie and team effectiveness. Programming is tailored to meet the specific needs, interests, and goals of each group.