In partnership with the Arizona Elk Society's Habitat Project team, our EmpoweRanch crew is excited to invite you to join us in the cool pines for our second EmpoweRanch Veterans Camp Out℠ 2025! 

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. In partnership with Arizona Elk Society’s Habitat Project, 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 to preserve and protect an important natural resource at Apache Maid near Stoneman Lake.

Camp Highlights:

Outdoor Therapeutic Recreation: Engage in activities that promote health and well-being, such as intentional hiking and nature exploration activities, mindful movement, guided meditation, breathwork, and other mindfulness techniques.

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

Outdoor Skills: Learn, practice, and/or share essential outdoor skills such as fire-building and shelter construction.

Service to the Habitat: Participate in a meaningful service project in partnership with the Arizona Elk Society to improve and preserve the local habitat at Apache Maid.

Enjoying Nature: Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring natural beauty and wonders of the Mogollon Rim. You’re likely to see or hear elk, deer, coyotes, ravens, hawks, squirrels, frogs, and other forest-dwelling animals. The forest will be abundant with wildflowers. For the foragers, mushroom hunters, and those interested in learning, the monsoon rains should lead to some tasty wild edible fruits and fungi!

What You Need to Bring:

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

• Appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions

• Personal gear and toiletries

• Preferred snacks/beverages

• Meals Will Be Provided by Our Generous Partner: The Arizona Elk Society will generously provide all meals during the camp, ensuring you are well-nourished and energized for each day's activities. Please bring preferred food if you have dietary restrictions. 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 1st-3rd, 2025

Location: Apache Maid near Stoneman Lake in northern Arizona east of I-17 about 30 mi. south of Flagstaff at approx. 6,700 ft elevation (directions and map will be provided)

Please Note: A future Veterans Family Camp is in the works, but this camp is specifically for veterans/active-duty military members only. Participants must be able to traverse rocky and uneven sloping terrain to participate in many of these activities. AZ Elk Society welcomes us to use clean porta-potties onsite, or you can bring your own camp latrine setup.

IF YOU CHOOSE TO BRING DOGS: For safety and respect of everyone including your dog(s), all dogs must be leashed and under handler’s control at all times while at camp. This is especially critical to ensure safety for working service dogs.

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

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 the second annual EmpoweRanch Veterans Camp Out℠ 2025!

NOTE: BY DEFAULT, THIS PAGE WILL READ “SOLD OUT” UNTIL REGISTRATION OPENS. IF YOU ARE SEEING THIS, REGISTRATION HAS NOT OPENED YET.