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InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta

Locations: Rocky Mountain House, AB; Sundre, AB; Rocky Mountain House, AB

Type:

Day camp, Overnight camp, Family programs
Focus:

Traditional (multi activity)
Cost:

$269 to $1,499/week
Ages:

5 to 19
Gender:

Coed, All Girls, All Boys
Main language:

English
Capacity:

Varies
Programs:

View 15 available
e-Brochure:

View e-brochure

Request more info

Della Ganske

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Visit camp's website

Summary Profile
InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta answered our questions
Who are you as an organization?

Located at 2 beautiful locations in Alberta (Pioneer Lodge, Sundre & Pioneer Ranch, Rocky Mountain House), we have offered summer camp for over 70 years. Campers choose from horseback riding, wall climbing, swimming, archery, out-trips and a range of other exciting activities! We focus on providing a highly personalized, safe, faith-oriented camp experience, encouraging each camper to develop confidence, friendship, independence and faith.

Special needs: Not available

Religious affiliation: Christian

What do you do differently or uniquely well?

"We are a Christian camp that seeks to holistically introduce campers to Jesus, adventure, and skills, develop character & life-long friendships. Each camp session has a slightly different flavour from fun-focused, single-gender, out-tripping, skills development, horsemanship and more. "

Who are your staff and counsellors?

This information is not available.

What do families need to know about registration?

"Registration is online and generally opens mid to late November each year. Dates & Rates are usually posted in September. Registrations for Family Camps, Horsemanship Skills sessions and our Sr. Boys/Sr. Girls Horseback Riding Out-Trips and Sr. Skills Horse Track fill up quickly, so it's essential to register early to guarantee a spot.

Deposits are required at the time of registration. Payment can be made by credit card (MasterCard, VISA/VISADebit) or by E-transfer. Financial Assistance available.

Our website contains information about our Sessions, Cancellation Policies, Out-Trips, FAQs, How To Prepare For Camp, Packing Lists and much more! Have questions? Send us an email and we will respond within 2-3 business days or give us a call! "

Visit the InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta website
COVID-19 Response

We follow all guidelines that local health authorities, and provincial and federal regulators provide for us, as well as submit regularly to onsite reviews by health authorities.
We do not require COVID vaccinations for campers to attend our camp sessions.
View recent COVID-19 updates from InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta

Upcoming Events

June 15, 2023
LIT Registration Deadline
11:55 pm

June 23, 2023
Hard Skills Weekend: Horse Out-Trip Skills Training
07:00 pm

September 11, 2023
2023-2024 LEAD (Leadership Experience and Discipleship) Internship Program
09:00 am

October 13, 2023
Ranch Fall Work Weekend
07:00 pm - 01:00 pm

Photo Gallery
Video Gallery

Programs, Rates & Dates

Programs and Sessions Calendar

Choose the right programs and sessions for your child; InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta currently has 15 programs available.

Choose location:

Name

Age

Type (Gender)

specialty

Shortlist

view details

Ages: 1 - 18+

Overnight Camp
(Coed)

Traditional (multi activity)
$105 to $189

Sundre, AB 32134 Range Road 63	Jun 29-Jul 02		$105 - $189
Rocky Mountain House, AB 403048 Buster Creek Rd.	Jun 29-Jul 02		$105 - $189
Rocky Mountain House, AB 403048 Buster Creek Rd.	Aug 24-27		$105 - $189
Sundre, AB 32134 Range Road 63	Aug 25-28		$105 - $189

Leaders-In-Training 1 (LIT1)

view details

Ages: 15 - 16

Overnight Camp
(Coed)

CIT/LIT Program
$529

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Jun 29-Jul 07

$529

Leaders-In-Training 2 (LIT2)

view details

Ages: 17 - 18+

Overnight Camp
(Coed)

CIT/LIT Program
$529

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Jun 29-Jul 07

$529

view details

Ages: 5 - 9

Day Camp
(Coed)

Traditional (multi activity)
$269

Sundre, AB 32134 Range Road 63	Jul 04-07		$269
Rocky Mountain House, AB 403048 Buster Creek Rd.	Jul 04-07		$269

view details

Ages: 12 - 14

Overnight Camp
(Coed)

Traditional (multi activity)
$629

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Jul 09-14

$629

Horsemanship Skills Camp 1

view details

Ages: 10 - 11

Overnight Camp
(Coed)

Horseback Riding/Equestrian
$629

Sundre, AB
32134 Range Road 63

Jul 09-14

$629

view details

Ages: 9 - 11

Overnight Camp
(All Boys)

Traditional (multi activity)
$629

Sundre, AB
32134 Range Road 63

Jul 16-21

$629

view details

Ages: 12 - 18

Overnight Camp
(All Girls)

Wilderness Out-tripping
$1,499

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Jul 16-28

$1,499

view details

Ages: 6 - 9

Overnight Camp
(Coed)

Traditional (multi activity)
$379 to $499

Sundre, AB 32134 Range Road 63	Jul 23-27		$499
Sundre, AB 32134 Range Road 63	Aug 20-23		$379

view details

Ages: 9 - 11

Overnight Camp
(All Girls)

Traditional (multi activity)
$629

Sundre, AB
32134 Range Road 63

Jul 30-Aug 04

$629

view details

Ages: 12 - 18

Overnight Camp
(All Boys)

Wilderness Out-tripping
$1,499

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Jul 30-Aug 11

$1,499

Horsemanship Skills Session 2

view details

Ages: 10 - 11

Overnight Camp
(Coed)

Horseback Riding/Equestrian
$629

Sundre, AB
32134 Range Road 63

Aug 06-11

$629

view details

Ages: 9 - 11

Overnight Camp
(Coed)

Traditional (multi activity)
$629

Sundre, AB
32134 Range Road 63

Aug 13-18

$629

view details

Ages: 12 - 18+

Overnight Camp
(Coed)

Traditional (multi activity)
$629

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Aug 13-18

$629

LEAD (Leadership Experience and Discipleship) Program

view details

Ages: 18 - 18+

Class/league/program
(Coed)

Leadership (multi)
$0

Sundre, AB
32134 Range Road 63

Sep 11, 2023-Apr 26, 2024

$0

Financial Aid & Payment Details

Payment Options:

Deposit required with acceptance	Yes
Credit card payment	Yes

Discounts

Discount for 2nd child	$75
Discount for 3rd child	$100
Discount for 4th child	$100

Register or request details Visit website

Insider Reviews & Perspectives

The Our Kids review of InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta

Pioneer Camp Alberta is one of nine InterVarsity camps located across the country. The camping program was begun 1929, an expression of InterVarsity, an association of campus ministries intended to bring Christian values and awareness to young people, and support their spiritual and social growth. The camps were part of the initial vision, designed to create a unique opportunity to bring young people together around the unique challenges that a camp setting can provide. That remains perhaps more true today than ever. At camp they unplug, and turn their attention to the community they find there. The activities facilitate a greater understanding of campers’ talents and abilities, as well as the Christian values that inform the programming. The camp has grown over the years, adding new activities and facilities, all of it furthering the initial goals.
Visit camp's website

User reviews of InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta — Read all 51 reviews

Year After Year
Camper (Camper)
I had a fantastic time. I would like to come back next year.

Year After Year
Parent (Parent)
Most anticipated week of summer! Real life experience. Fun. Memories to last a life time!

Year After Year
Parent (Parent)
My son comes home so completely happy and satisfied year after year – he looks forward to camp all year long.

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
Gave my child more confidence and self-esteem.

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
The people, the kindness, the positive atmosphere, the feeling of security, the cohesion, the landscape.

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
I love the Christian programming. My kids loved the campfire songs and we are still singing them!

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
Pioneer Camps are far from town, teaching kids to embrace their time there and helping them learn vital skills in becoming adults. Pioneer teaches the kids skills other camps don’t.

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
Our kids were challenged by the horses and waterfront and overcame some of their fears! What a success!

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
Long standing traditions, well-established, reputation and programs that focus on our kids.

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
Good Christian content. Love the way campfire is done. Like the variety of activities and physical boundaries are pushed a bit.

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
My daughter comes from a split household and I believe this allows her to forget about problems and lets her be a kid.

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
How outdoor minded it is, coming from the city it is great to let the kids experience a whole week of being outside, enjoying nature, etc.

Upon Arrival
Parent (Parent)
When we arrived our son became shy and didn’t want to join the other campers. [His cabin leader] came and asked him to play Frisbee and it was just what he needed. Thank you!

The Right Balance
Parent (Parent)
Fun. Easy-going. Adventurous.

The Right Balance
Parent (Parent)
Welcoming. Educational. Personal development. Incredible!

The Right Balance
Parent (Parent)
Relaxed. Fun. Flexible. Supportive environment. I appreciate the religious component, and my son doesn’t mind that part either!

Riding
Parent (Parent)
Horses and God. Perfect combination!

Riding
Parent (Parent)
The time she gets to spend with the horses and having pure “kid” time is priceless!

Registration
Parent (Parent)
The support in registering and financial support makes this camp possible for my son to attend. My son always comes back with great and exciting stories, telling of all the new friends he has made and always has something positive to say about his mentor. ... Read More

No Electronics
Parent (Parent)
Clean living in fresh outdoors, with horses. As a parent, I think the no electronic device rule is great!

No Electronics
Parent (Parent)
I think it was great that no electronics were allowed. It is good for kids to leave them at home.

New Experience
Parent (Parent)
Amazing! Our daughter’s first experience was all we wanted it to be.

New Experience
Parent (Parent)
It’s a very safe and diverse camp. My daughter has asked numerous times to go back again next year. I’m so grateful that her first time at camp blew her mind. Thank you so much for providing such a safe and wonderful experience ... Read More

New Experience
Parent (Parent)
Our son noticed the Lego Theme right away when we arrived. From not wanting to stay, he didn’t want to leave. I watched him play 9 Square. That was a relief for his first camp experience!

Scholarships & Life-Changing Experiences
Parent (Parent)
I am so thankful for the scholarship we received that made it possible for our daughter to go to the best Christian camp, and have a life-changing experience that will impact her for the rest of her life. With tears of gratitude, A Sr. Girls Paren ... Read More

Location
Parent (Parent)
Close to home and lots of age categories to choose from for our large family.

Location
Parent (Parent)
Pioneer Camps are far from town, teaching kids to embrace their time there and helping them learn vital skills in becoming adults. Pioneer teaches the kids skills other camps don’t.

Location
Parent (Parent)
It’s a sleepover camp and it’s not in the city. It’s an opportunity for our children to grow both spiritually and in maturity

Growing Up!
Parent (Parent)
Camp was so amazing for her last year. It totally got her out of her shell! Her confidence was through the roof after camp! [It was] like she was a whole new young girl!

Growing Up!
Parent (Parent)
Adventurous. Boys to men. Healthy.

Growing Up!
Parent (Parent)
Empowering and [provided] a lot of confidence and excitement to my daughter.

Full Days!
Parent (Parent)
Horses and being outside and doing many activities that are fun and challenging. The kids get so much personally and spiritually from the experience.

Full Days!
Parent (Parent)
There are horses, great food and plenty of it, the out-trip is exciting, the layout of the land makes the games and the activities fun.

Family Camp
Parent (Parent)
An opportunity to face challenges and grow as a family.

Camp Staff
Parent (Parent)
The staff is amazing. I just can’t say enough.

Camp Staff
Parent (Parent)
[They have a ] passion for living in faith and the dedication to each youth that attends.

Camp Staff
Parent (Parent)
Amazing love for all the kids in attendance.

Camp Memories
Camper Parent (Parent)
Our son came home from the Horsemanship Skills Session 1 Camp. He had such an amazing week and thought the Camp Leaders were so great.... Frozone, Cricket, Mowgli, Pud, Rapunzel, Acorn, Pelican, Shakes and the "Horse Husb... Read More

Camper Experience
Parent (Parent)
My daughter and son rave about how much fun they both had and what amazing people they met. Excellent across the board!

Camper Experience
Parent (Parent)
Loved it! My child dislikes a lot of stuff and yet he LOVES Pioneer Camp. High praise coming from him!

Camper Experience
Parent (Parent)
Two weeks is a long time. My daughter had so much fun. We missed her more than she missed us!

Camper Experience
Parent (Parent)
Our daughter has never had anything bad to say about this camp. She counts down the days to camp every summer!

Cabin Leaders
Parent (Parent)
My daughter absolutely loves camp! She especially loves the connection to her cabin leader every year.

Cabin Leaders
Parent (Parent)
We have not experienced a lot of other camps…but I will say that it seems to be mostly the leaders that really make the difference. I love that the most meaningful time for our daughter is connecting with the leaders…h... Read More

Cabin Leaders
Parent (Parent)
My daughter was anxious about not sleeping in her own home. The cabin leader helped support her through that. We couldn’t be more thankful that our kids had such a wonderful experience. Thank you!

Activities
Parent (Parent)
Great selection of activities available.

Activities
Parent (Parent)
Adventurous out-trips for older campers.

Activities
Parent (Parent)
Wide games have always been the difference between Pioneer and other camps. I knew [our son] would have a great time because of the games. He went to [a different camp]…with some friends and said he would never go back. ... Read More

Year After Year
Parent (Parent)
It is consistently great every year; horseback riding is a favourite, lots of great activities provided. And most importantly, the camp leaders are always amazing with the kids! That makes me feel at peace leaving my child there a week ... Read More

Camper Experience
Parent (Parent)
She loved the relaxed feel and intimacy of staff and campers. The horsemanship and getting to be at a real, outside working camp was good for her and [she] loved it.

What Do You Like About Camp?
Parent (Parent)
We choose Pioneer out of a number of good options/recommendations of others because of your unique combination of camp length (4 nights for her first time), horseback riding, swimming and location (within a two hour drive of Calgary) ... Read More
Location & Site Details
Address

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd., Rocky Mountain House, AB, T4T 1A4
Sundre, AB
32134 Range Road 63, Sundre, Alberta, T0M 1X0
Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Road, Alhambra, Alberta, T0M 0C0
Accommodations

Sleeping Accommodations

Cabins
Dorm or Building
Tents

Amenities

Electricity in Sleeping Area
Shower in Sleeping Area
Toilet in Sleeping Area

Washrooms Facilities

Flush Toilets
Showers (indoor)

More details about accommodations: TWO GREAT LOCATIONS!! PIONEER LODGE IS LOCATED 16 KM SOUTHWEST OF SUNDRE, overlooking the Red Deer River Valley with a fantastic view of the Rockies! The central Lodge has a large dining room, kitchen and meeting areas. Nikki’s Chalet, an additional meeting area, is a one minute walk down the hill from the Lodge. Guests either stay in dorm or twin rooms in the main Lodge or in heated cabins with twin or bunk-beds. Cabins are one large room on the main floor, with an overhead loft. The cabins are winterized, insulated, heated by gas and have electricity. PIONEER RANCH IS LOCATED ON CRIMSON LAKE, 16 KM NORTTHWEST OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE. Guests stay in cozy cabins along the shores of the lake. The central Ranch House has a large dining room, kitchen, and two meeting areas. The North Lodge, an additional meeting area, is located next to the Ranch House.Guests stay in cabins with bunk beds. Most cabins are one large room with bunks along the walls. Winterized cabins are insulated and heated with gas stoves. Summer cabins are insulated and heated with a wood stove. All cabins have electricity.

Are meals provided? Yes

Is InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta technology free? Yes Please leave cell phones, tablets and laptops at home. We are not responsible for any lost or broken items at camp.
Property Details

Sports facilities

Archery Range
Basketball Court
Climbing Wall
Horseback Riding Arena (indoor/outdoor)
Soccer Field
Swimming Pool

Landscape

Forested Area
Lake/Pond/River
Nature Trails
Open Field

More details about property: PIONEER LODGE BARNS & ARENA: Take a walk down to the barn and meet the Lodge horses! Covered riding arena and outdoor arenas and corrals are perfect for lessons and programming involving our herd (mounted archery, games, teaching times, etc.). Numerous onsite trails to choose from. Enjoy the unique perspective of exploring the natural beauty of the land from horseback. LODGE MAIN GROUNDS: Archery Range, Basketball and Volleyball Courts, Climbing Wall, Fire Pits, Hiking Trails Indoor Recreation Room (with Ping-Pong and Foosball), Initiative Task Course, Playing Field, Pond for Canoeing & Water Activities, Riding Trails, Seasonal Swimming Pool, Sledding Hills, Wagon Ride / Sleigh Ride Trails RANCH BARNS & ARENAS: Take a stroll down to the barn and meet the Ranch horses! Large stalls and arenas for lessons and programming involving our herd (games, teaching times, etc.) Greenspace abounds for grazing and working with the horses. See our newly renovated Tack Shed. Over an hour and a half of onsite trails to explore by horseback. Discover the natural beauty that abounds at Pioneer Ranch from horseback. RANCH MAIN GROUNDS: Archery Range, Basketball Court, Climbing Wall, Fire Pits, Hiking Trails, Indoor Recreation Room (with Ping-Pong and Foosball), Initiative Task Course, Lake with Waterfront Access, Riding Trails, Wagon Ride / Sleigh Ride Trails, Two Meeting Rooms, Large Hall for Events, Library, Outdoor Amphitheater, Playing Field
Rentals & Services

Offers outdoor education program for schools or corporate groups: Yes
Our site in Sundre (Pioneer Lodge) and Rocky Mountain House (Pioneer Ranch) both offer outdoor education programs for school groups. Contact us and we'll work with you to put together a program that your students won't forget!

Available for private rentals: Yes
Our sites in Sundre (Pioneer Lodge) and Rocky Mountain House (Pioneer Ranch) both offer year round rentals to school groups, churches or other groups. Come join us on the archery range, at the climbing wall or on a trail ride! We have a ton of activities for you to participate in and a great staff to facilitate your time with us! Cabin rentals also available for family getaways. Give us a call!

Associations
What's New

Director's Message

Ruth Lewis, Executive Director
40 years of experience working with youth through camping and InterVarsity Christian Fellowship

We love kids. We love seeing them discover they can do more than they realize. We love watching them develop life-long friendships. We love listening to their laughter. We love seeing them grow and mature as they discover how much God loves them. We love welcoming them back to camp, year after year.

Our Pioneer Lodge site in Sundre is primarily devoted to Elementary aged campers 5 - 11 year olds, while our Pioneer Ranch site in Rocky Mountain House is devoted to Junior and Senior High ages.

Out-Tripping is a key element of our Ranch site, where campers at Senior Girls and Senior Boys go on a four to five day Out-Trip, either Backpacking, Hiking Base Camp, River Canoeing or Horseback Riding. We believe that as young people experience nature and the great outdoors, they begin to see more of who God is.

Founded in 1951, Pioneer Camp Alberta is part of a network of nine InterVarsity Camps across Canada operating under the names Circle Square and Pioneer. We are committed to seeing young people transformed by the love of God actively at work in their lives.

Ask a question

In the News

March 19, 2023
Staff & Volunteer Positions Available at Pioneer Camp Alberta!
Apply for seasonal staff & volunteer positions for summer 2023 at Pioneer Camp Alberta! ... Read More

February 20, 2021
At the Ranch: Jenny's Story
Why I'm still involved with Pioneer Camp Alberta...... Read More

June 16, 2020
Join Pioneer Alberta's 2020/2021 LEAD Program!
Are you 18-25 and unsure as to what you are doing with your life in September? Plans up in the air due to COVID-19 restrictions? Try LEAD! ... Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

Does InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta have good reviews?
We've collected reviews from past attendees. Read 51 reviews of InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta here.
What types of programs does InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta offer?
InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta runs: overnight camps, day camps, year-round programs. Programming specializes in: Traditional (multi activity) , CIT/LIT Program, Horseback Riding/Equestrian, Wilderness Out-tripping, Leadership (multi). Browse the program calendar for rates and dates.
What age does InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta start?
InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta has programs for children aged 5 to 19.
How much does is cost to attend InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta?
Fees to attend InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta range from $269 to $1,499/week.
Does InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta offer support for children with special needs?
InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta does not offer support for children with special needs.
Does InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta offer busing?
No, InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta does not offer transportation.

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