Summer Camp Registration Open: Camp La Junta 2026
Summer Camp Registration Open: Camp La Junta 2026
Summer 2026 at Camp La Junta is shaping up to be our best season yet. Registration is now officially open for all summer programs—I can’t wait to welcome new campers and see returning friends back on the ranch.
2026 Summer Program Dates
| Session | Dates | Ages | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior Camp I | June 7-13 | Ages 8-10 | FILLING FAST |
| Junior Camp II | June 20-26 | Ages 8-10 | Available |
| Intermediate Camp | July 5-11 | Ages 11-13 | Available |
| Advanced Camp | July 18-24 | Ages 14-17 | Available |
| Leadership Camp | July 25-31 | Ages 15-17 | Limited |
What Makes Camp La Junta Special
I’ve written before about how Camp La Junta shaped my own childhood—how the disciplines I learned on the ranch translated into the persistence I use every day in investigative journalism. That philosophy drives everything we do:
1. Character First We don’t just teach skills. We build character. Every camper leaves understanding the value of commitment, integrity, and service.
2. Small Camper-to-Counselor Ratio Our 4:1 ratio ensures every camper gets individual attention. No getting lost in the crowd here.
3. Real outdoor Skills Rope handling, tracking, shelter building—it wasn’t that long ago these were survival skills. We keep them alive.
Program Highlights
Outdoor Living Skills
- Fire building and safety
- Orienteering and navigation
- Shelter construction
- Water procurement and purification
Equestrian Program
- Basic through advanced riding
- Horse care and grooming
- Trail riding in the Hill Country
- Show jumping (Intermediate +)
Adventure Activities
- Rappelling
- Canoeing on the Guadalupe
- Target shooting (supervised, safe)
- Evening campfires
2026 Tuition
| Program | Tuition | Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Camp | $1,450 | $300 |
| Intermediate | $1,595 | $300 |
| Advanced | $1,695 | $300 |
| Leadership | $1,795 | $300 |
Early Bird Discount: Register before June 1st and save $100 per session.
Redhorse Scholarship
For the third year running, the Tommy Redhorse Scholarship is available for one deserving young journalist-in-training. The scholarship covers full tuition plus books and supplies.
Eligibility: Ages 12-16, demonstrated interest in storytelling or journalism, financial need.
Application: Contact the camp office or apply through the online portal.
How to Register
- Online: Visit matthew-bovee.com/summer-camp for the registration portal
- Phone: Call the camp office at (830) 257-9132
- Email: [email protected]
A Personal Note
Every summer, I’m reminded why this place matters. There’s power in disconnecting from screens and connecting with the land, with horses, with each other. In an age of endless scrolling and hot takes, Camp La Junta remains a sanctuary where young people learn to be present.
I hope your child will join us this summer. The ranch is waiting.
Matthew Bovee is a longtime supporter of Camp La Junta and its mission to build tomorrow’s leaders through outdoor adventure.