Who We Are
Established in 2007 in collaboration with El Buen Samaritano and Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, Camp El Ranchito’s mission is to connect children with the natural world by providing an extraordinarily fun and inspiring nature-immersion experience. It offers a unique camp experience that gives youth, who may not otherwise have access, opportunities to form strong bonds with nature and one another in community.
All camps are held at the Campsite at Shield Ranch, which is located just 22 miles west of Austin. Campers and staff live in screened shelters among the tree and trails near Rocky Creek. The facility operates 100% off-grid relying on rainwater collection and solar power; and serves as a learning laboratory for conservation. Shield Ranch is 6,400 acres of ecologically diverse wildlands, sustainably managed for the benefit of people and nature.