The Gift of Teton Valley Ranch Camp: A Life Changing Experience
Few gifts leave as profound an impact as the gift of summer camp. At Teton Valley Ranch Camp, the experience goes far beyond a summer of fun— it shapes who campers become. From exploring the rugged beauty of Wyoming to forming lifelong friendships, TVRC gives children a unique opportunity to grow, thrive, and discover their best selves. Camp offers something that is increasingly rare in today’s world: a level ground where campers leave behind the distractions of technology, the pressures of social media, and the routine of city life. They step into a world where adventure, community, and perseverance reign. Whether it’s mastering outdoor skills, embracing the challenge of a mountain hike, or sharing stories around a campfire, the experiences at TVRC are more than just memories—they are milestones. For many campers, and the families who support them, these moments become a cherished legacy.
A Grandmother’s Legacy
The gift of Teton Valley Ranch Camp is often made possible by loved ones who see its value and want to share it with the next generation. For Joan Baldwin, a grandmother from Jackson, Wyoming, camp became a family tradition that shaped the lives of her four grandchildren. Reflecting on her experience, Joan shared:
It has been my pleasure to send my four grandchildren to TVRC. They have loved camp and the many opportunities and experiences it has provided, and I have loved watching them grow and learn. It is a summer spent on an ‘even playing field’ … at altitude and with a mountain or two! People and camping skills rule. My grandchildren (3 boys and 1 girl) live in cities, and now share my appreciation for the mountains and the environment. If asked today, as well as years from now, to name an experience that made a positive difference in their lives, it would most certainly be camp. Thank you, TVRC!
Her words capture the essence of what makes camp so special: a place where kids step away from the rhythms of everyday life to build confidence, grit, and a lifelong connection to nature- and each other. Joan’s legacy doesn’t end there. One of her grandsons, inspired by his time as a camper, is returning for his fourth summer on staff as a trip leader. His journey is a testament to how camp experiences can instill a love for leadership, mentorship, and outdoor exploration. For Joan, the investment in her grandchildren’s time at camp was not just a gift for one summer—it was a gift that shaped their understanding of the world, their relationship with the environment, and their confidence in facing life’s challenges.
Spreading the Gift of Camp
The magic of Teton Valley Ranch Camp isn’t just for those who already know about it—it’s a gift waiting to be shared with new families and future campers. Whether through personal connections or financial contributions, there are many ways to ensure more children can experience the life-changing impact of camp.
Through Word of Mouth
One of the most powerful ways to share TVRC is through your own story. Over 80% of our current campers and staff first heard about TVRC from a friend or family member. As part of our camp community, you’ve seen firsthand how TVRC provides a space for campers to challenge themselves, embrace adventure, and form authentic relationships. Sharing this with others can open the door for new families to discover their summer home in the wilds of Wyoming. Every conversation matters—whether it’s a quick chat with a neighbor, a recommendation to a friend, or a post on social media. By spreading the word, you can help another child find the joy and transformation that comes from their time at TVRC.
Supporting TVRC Scholarships
Our hope is that cost is not a barrier to a family who is enthusiastic about exploring Teton Valley Ranch Camp. Contributions to the Scholarship Endowment ensure that campers from across the country can experience TVRC and become Ready to Ride, regardless of their financial circumstances. This fund is a vital part of our mission to make camp accessible to as many children as possible and helps bring the gift of camp to a child who might otherwise never have the chance.
A Gift That Keeps on Giving
The gift of Teton Valley Ranch Camp is so much more than a summer in the mountains—it’s a foundation for a lifetime of growth, confidence, and connection. Whether it’s made possible by a grandparent’s generosity, shared through a heartfelt recommendation, or supported by contributions to our Scholarship Endowment, camp has the power to impact lives. For the campers who experience TVRC, the lessons they learn and the friendships they build stay with them long after they’ve packed up their duffels and trunks. They return home more self-assured, better prepared for challenges, and with a deeper bond to the natural world. As part of our camp community, you play an essential role in making this magic happen. By sharing the gift of TVRC, you help create opportunities for new campers to discover all that camp has to offer—and in doing so, you help build a stronger, more vibrant camp family. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Together, we can ensure that more children experience the gift of camp and all the adventures, lessons, and memories it brings.
