Camp Trinity at Bar 717 Ranch

About Us | Info for Program Directors

Expert Camp & Trip Recommendations
Call 617-264-0939

Choice Camps Recommendation of Camp Trinity at Bar 717 Ranch

Founded in 1930, Camp Trinity at Bar 717 Ranch is the oldest accredited co-educational summer camp in California. Still owned and operated by the founding Gates family, Camp Trinity welcomes campers and staff from all over California and the world.

Located in the heart of the Trinity Alps, Bar 717 Ranch boasts 450 rustically charming acres surrounded by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. At Camp Trinity, campers learn pioneer traditions such as cooperation, resourcefulness, and sharing while participating in a variety of nature-focused activities. With a fully functioning ranch at their fingertips, campers experience nature, develop friendships, learn new skills, and enhance their self-esteem. Surrounded by a competent and encouraging staff, campers learn practical skills and values that mold them into outstanding leaders.

Program Description

Camp Trinity at Bar 717 Ranch gives campers a free choice of activities each day. Every morning the camp opens activity areas and campers choose where to spend their time. The camp offers a variety of activities ranging from horsemanship to arts and crafts to leadership training. No competitive team sports are offered at the camp.

Because Bar 717 is a fully operational ranch, campers don’t just learn how to ride a horse; they are taught the comprehensive process of caring for the horse and its surroundings. Through Bar717’s horsemanship program, campers can expect to learn about grooming, saddling, and barn maintenance from an expert staff of certified instructors.

Camp Trinity campers can take overnight and extended backpacking trips throughout scenic surrounding areas. A popular destination for overnights is the Trinity Alps Wilderness located about 30 miles from camp. Campers who are 15-16 years old can take part in the Camper in Leadership Training Program which takes a hands-on approach to developing future counselors and staff members.

Staff Overview

The Camp Trinity at Bar 717 Ranch Camp staff is comprised of highly-trained riding and nature professionals eager to teach campers new skills. Camp Trinity activity leaders are certified in their particular field and all full-time counselors must complete a minimum of two years of college prior to employment.

Camp Trinity boasts a high staff retention rate and 1/3rd of their staff were campers who completed the Camper in Leadership Training Program.

Setting & Accommodations

The Bar 717 Ranch is located on 450 acres of mountains, meadows, creeks, and pasture land surrounded by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. With an elevation of 2,000 feet, days are warm and nights are cool.

Campers live on open-air platform cabins that offer protection from the elements while providing stunning views of the countryside. The platform cabins have flush toilets and water basins; showers are a short walk. Each platform accommodates 5-12 campers and 1-2 counselors.

Much of the food at Camp Trinity is produced on the ranch and in the local community. Meals are served family style and are approved by a licensed nutritionist.

Safety Standards

Camp Trinity employs a physician and registered nurse in residence at all times. The medical center is open 24 hours a day.

Every Bar 717 Ranch staff member is Wilderness First Aid certified. The riding program is led by staff trained through the Certified Horsemanship Association. Waterfront staff members are certified lifeguards.

Camp Trinity is accredited by the American Camp Association and meets more than 300 safety standards set forth by the organization. The camp is also a member of the Western Association of Independent Camps.

Camp Trinity at Bar 717 Ranch Session Dates

Session Name	Dates	Ages	Tuition
First Session	6/20/13-7/3/13	7-17	$2,260
Second Session	7/4/13-7/17/13	7-17	$2,260
Third Session	7/18/13-8/7/13	7-17	$3,280
Family Camp (Adult)	8/19/13-8/22/13	18-70	$880
Family Camp (Child 12-17)	8/19/13-8/22/13	12-17	$630
Family Camp (Child 6-11)	8/19/13-8/22/13	6-11	$505
Family Camp (2-5)	8/19/13-8/22/13	2-5	$380