If you have ever been affiliated with 4-H in Kansas, you have probably heard of Rock Springs Ranch! In 1945, land was purchased to provide a 4-H Camp for youth in Kansas. Over the past 75 years, countless numbers of 4-H youth, other youth groups, and many other organizations have utilized the facilities known as Rock Springs Ranch.
As a kid, I wasn’t able to attend 4-H Camp but did spend a couple of weeks there while my dad gained continuing education certificates as part of the Kansas Association of Teachers of Science (KATS Camp). I have very fond memories of wading in the creek, picking and eating water cress, and hiking the grounds with my mom and siblings.
A great group of youth, including our own Barton County 4-H member Lexi Straub, came up with a philanthropy project in 2020 to benefit Rock Springs Ranch and all campers who utilize the facility. “Endorse The Course” is a fundraising challenge designed by these youth which will provide a new Leadership Adventure Course.
They set a good goal of $25,000 by May 1st and have raised nearly $26,000! Teams will use the Adventure Course to learn about teamwork, build confidence, and grow in resilience and perseverance.
The Cottonwood Extension District is part of the Heart of Kansas camp group and will be taking a smaller number of youth to Rock Springs Ranch for 4-H Camp in mid-June. Youth will take part in educational activities, make new friends, and learn new skills.
In addition, 4-H hosts an event called Campference at Rock Springs in late June for those youth who may be ready for more than the camp experience but not yet ready to be a counselor. These 12 to 14-year-old youth have the fun activities of camp with a higher level of learning opportunities in leadership.
Doesn’t Rock Springs Ranch sound like fun? Did you know that you can rent it for family reunions or other group activities? If you are interested in the quality of food – just ask a 4-H member about the rolls or chicken tender/mac and cheese day! You can contact Rock Springs Ranch for more information at www.rockspringsranch.org or contact the Kansas 4-H Foundation for ways to support a wide variety of events and activities.
I know that I am counting the days to be at Rock Springs Ranch with our youth counselors and 4-H members for Happy Trails of Fun And Adventure this summer!
Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.
Michelle Beran is the 4-H and youth development agent for the Cottonwood District, Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth and Development related questions, email her at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.
