The 70th Wyoming Ranchers Family Camp will take place from July 9 until July 12 at the Bottle Creek Campground. There is no cost for registration, and it is a faith-based experience for anyone interested, no matter if they are a rancher or with their family. Ask at least one family member or other person to come with you. Guests must pay a fee to camp or stay in a motel.
The archives of the Saratoga Sun recall the 10th Ranchers Family Camp in 1955, which was still held in the same area at what was then called Bottle Creek Ranch. It was the “most successful yet held” with impressive attendance and visitors from nine different states. That year the committee determined the Ranchers Family Camp meetings would permanently be held the weekend following the Fourth of July. In 1956, the Ranchers Family Camp saw the largest attendance in their 11 year history. It was reported that 30 young people of high school age made the trek from Illinois to attend.
In 2015, the camp continues to attract national attention. Darin and Merna Boone, of Pasco, Wash., will come as speakers and worship leaders. Todd and Denise Reed, of Scottsbluff, Neb., will join the camp to lead Bible Study. Royce Smith, of Fannin Co., Tex. will lead music. For youth up through junior high, Darius Becker, of Cheyenne, will organize the youth group. For youth aged high school through college, Adeline Kohl, of Douglas, Wyo., will lead youth group.
The first activity is a supper on at 6 p.m. on July 9, followed by an evening service at 7:30 p.m. On July 10 and 11, breakfast is served at 8 a.m., followed by a 10 a.m. Bible Study. Lunch is served at noon, followed by a 2 p.m. Bible Study. Supper will be served at 6 p.m., followed by evening services. On July 12, breakfast will be served at 8 a.m., followed by a 9:30 a.m. Bible Study. There is a worship service at 11 a.m. and a business meeting/lunch at noon. Campers may participate in a talent share time at 3:30 p.m. on July 12 to perform music, poems, readings and so on. Supper will be served at 6 p.m. with evening services at 7:30 p.m.
There will be an evening campfire following evening services for campers to partake in fellowship and singing. The meals are chuckwagon style meals relying on the volunteerism of everyone in attendance to peel potatoes, clean up and wash dishes.
The campground is located seven miles southwest of Encampment on highway 70. Turn left on Hog Park Road and go about 80 yards. The entrance is on the right. There will be signs in Encampment as well to guide the way. For more information, call (307) 326-8293 or (307) 321-1645.
Reader Comments(0)