Our EmpoweRanch crew is excited to invite you to join us in the cool pines for our third EmpoweRanch Veterans Camp Out℠ 2026! 

This special three-day, two-night camping retreat is designed exclusively for military veterans and active-duty military personnel, offering a unique opportunity for connection, restoration, and renewal amidst the wild beauty of northern Arizona's Mogollon Rim. This is an opportunity to enjoy camping and camaraderie with other veterans and service members while gaining beneficial fresh perspectives, skills, connections, and insights for yourself and giving back by working together on a service project.

Camp Highlights:

Outdoor Therapeutic Recreation: Engage in experiences that support health and well-being, including intentional nature exploration, mindful movement, Yoga Nidra, guided meditation, breathwork, grounding practices, and other mindfulness techniques.

Grow with the Herd: Meet and interact with the animals who call Whispering Hope Ranch home, and take part in an intentional, unmounted experience with members of the EmpoweRanch herd. The equine experience may incorporate grounding, mindfulness, reflection, and exploration of equine communication.

Build Connection: Foster camaraderie and bond with fellow veterans and military members through fun team-building challenges and shared experiences.

Outdoor Skills: Learnfire-building, nature exploration, hiking, and other practical outdoor skills

Service to the Habitat: Participate in a meaningful service project to benefit the habitat, animals, and people. Different roles and adaptations will be available so participants can contribute in ways that work for them.

Savor Nature: Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring natural beauty and wonders of the Christopher Creek area just beneath the Mogollon Rim. You’re likely to see or hear elk, deer, coyotes, ravens, hawks, squirrels, frogs, and other forest-dwelling animals. The forest should be abundant with wildflowers, fungi, and other seasonal discoveries for participants interested in nature observation and forest ecology.

What You Need to Bring:

• Personal camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, cot, tarp, lantern, flashlight, etc.)

• Appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions

• Personal gear, toiletries, and enough of all medications, inhalers, allergy medications, and essential supplies for the full weekend. Participants are responsible for managing their own medications.

• Preferred snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. All food must be stored according to camp bear-safety procedures.

• Optional: personal first aid kit, books or art supplies, pocket knife, etc.

• Meals Will Be Provided by Our Generous Partner: Courtesy of Child Crisis Arizona, catered meals will be provided by Urban Phoenix, ensuring you are well-nourished and energized for each day's activities. Please describe all dietary needs and food allergies in the registration form. We will review what can be accommodated and let you know in advance if we recommend bringing any supplemental food.

  Saturday night’s dinner will be prepared camp and community-style with Dutch oven cooking. Be mindful we will be in bear country, so food will need to be stored appropriately. Meal plan will be shared at least a week from camp start date.

Join us for this unforgettable experience of connection, growth, service, and renewal. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot soon!

Dates: Friday-Sunday, August 28th-30th, 2026

Location: Whispering Hope Ranch near Christopher Creek, AZ; ~30 min. NE of Payson off the 260 (directions and map will be provided)

Please Note: A future EmpoweRanch Veterans Family Camp and Adaptive Veterans Camp is in the works, but this camp is specifically for veterans/active-duty military members only. Some activities take place on uneven natural terrain. Please describe any mobility, access, pacing, or support needs in your registration so we can plan appropriate routes, adaptations, and activity options.ADA-accessible portable restrooms will be available onsite. If you need another restroom arrangement or accommodation, please describe it in your registration or request a private conversation with our team.

Service Animals and Dogs: Trained service animals and service animals in training are welcome. Pets and emotional-support animals require advance approval. Every dog must be disclosed during registration so we can plan appropriately around working service animals, ranch animals, chickens, wildlife, food areas, and shared camping spaces. Handlers are responsible for their animal’s supervision, care, relief, cleanup, and behavior throughout the weekend.

Transportation Disclaimer

EmpoweRanch is unable to provide transportation to, from, or during the Veterans Camp Out. Participants are responsible for their own transportation and mobility throughout the weekend. Cell service may be limited. Participants should plan to arrive during the designated 2:00–4:00 p.m. check-in period and before dark. Detailed directions and arrival-day contact information will be sent to confirmed participants.
We hope to offer transportation assistance in the future and appreciate your understanding.

To register: Click the “Register Here!” button below and follow registration instructions. You will receive a confirmation email upon completion.

NOTE: Contacting EmpoweRanch or a partner organization does not reserve a space. Registration is complete after the form, commitment deposit, and EmpoweRanch review have been completed and you have received your final confirmation email.

Cost: To reserve your spot, a $25 refundable commitment deposit will be required at registration. This deposit will be fully refunded at camp check-in to ensure your commitment to attending. This camp out is offered for free in gratitude for your service and made possible thanks to our donors, volunteers, and partners.

We look forward to seeing you at our third annual EmpoweRanch Veterans Camp Out℠ 2026!