A hands-on outdoor experience for children ages 4β12 built around animals, sensory play, outdoor adventure, creativity, and genuine confidence-building. Every child belongs here.
Little Ranchers Summer Camp is Ukiah's first ranch-based summer program, a place where children ages 4 to 12 step away from screens and into something real. Each morning is filled with animal connections, creative exploration, outdoor adventure, and the kind of confidence that only comes from doing things with your own two hands.
We believe every child learns differently and shines in their own way. Our program is designed to meet children where they are, building on their strengths, honoring their pace, and celebrating every small victory along the way.
Activities vary day by day and session to session as we learn more about the strengths and interests of each group. No two days are ever the same!
Every camper, regardless of age, enjoys the exact same full camp experience. Same animals, same activities, same adventure. The only difference is who they're grouped with. We simply make sure kids are always with others their own age, so a 5-year-old is never grouped with a 12-year-old.
Little ones in this group build early confidence through hands-on animal interaction, sensory play, creative art, and movement, all within the full camp program. Group time with other children their own age helps develop social skills, friendship, and a love of learning in a warm, nurturing setting.
Kids in this group thrive on hands-on discovery, from caring for animals to cooking, gardening, and outdoor adventure. Sharing the full camp experience alongside peers their own age encourages teamwork, growing independence, and meaningful friendships built through group activities and play.
Older campers build real-world skills, deepen their connection with animals, and take on the full camp program with a sense of ownership and pride. Being grouped with peers their own age fosters deeper conversations, stronger bonds, and the kind of collaborative group play that builds lasting confidence and social connection.
All campers, regardless of age group, experience the exact same amazing camp program: every animal, every activity station, every rotation. The only difference is who they're grouped with. We keep groups by age so every child is always surrounded by peers at a similar stage, energy level, and development, making friendships feel natural and the experience feel just right.
Each day offers a mix of structured activities and free exploration in a safe, supervised ranch environment. Children rotate through stations every 40 minutes, keeping energy up and curiosity alive all morning long.
Hands-on time with horses, ponies, goats, cows, chickens, and kittens. Children learn gentle care, build trust, and experience the magic of connecting with animals.
Active outdoor fun across our beautiful ranch property, movement, games, exploration, and the freedom to run, climb, and discover in a safe environment.
Hands in the soil, tending to plants, visiting the chicken coop, and learning where food comes from. A grounding, sensory-rich experience every child loves.
Painting, clay, piΓ±ata making, tapestry, and more. Children express themselves freely in a space where every creation is celebrated.
Rhythm, movement, and self-expression through music and dance. A joyful, high-energy station that gets kids moving and smiling.
Real kitchen skills in our Courtyard Kitchen, children participate in food preparation and cooking, building independence and practical life skills.
Structured and free social activities including games, swings, sandpit, hammocks, and clay, building friendships and social skills naturally.
Imaginative, sensory-rich play experiences in our White Barn. A calming, creative space where children explore at their own pace.
Here's a look at a typical day on the ranch. Every session is structured, safe, and full of discovery.
Families who need an early start are welcome from 7:30 AM. Children settle in with light free play and morning activities until the full group arrives.
Children settle in, meet staff, and begin light free play as everyone arrives and gets comfortable for the day.
First activity rotation, animal connections, sensory play, or outdoor adventure depending on the group's schedule.
Second rotation, art, cooking, music, or nature exploration. Children move to a new station and a new experience.
A quick 20-minute break for children to enjoy their own snacks, hydrate, and recharge before the next round of activities.
Third rotation, gardening, social games, clay, or water games. Energy stays high and curiosity stays engaged.
Fourth rotation, another rich hands-on experience at a new station across the property.
Final activity rotation of the morning, outdoor play, creative projects, or animal time to close out the activity block.
Children enjoy their packed lunch together in a relaxed group setting, a great time for conversation, connection, and winding down before pickup.
Quiet activities and a gentle end-of-day transition. Families arrive for pickup and hear a brief update from staff.
Our ranch is home to some incredible animals, and your camper connects with them every single day. Here's a little sneak peek at who's waitingβ¦
Sessions run Monday through Friday all summer long. Register early, spots in each session are limited!
Simple, transparent pricing for general camp enrollment. For individualized support options, see below.
We welcome children of all abilities. Our standard program is designed for children who thrive in a group setting. Some children benefit from additional guidance, structure, or a smaller group environment. To support each child's success, we offer enhanced support options with adjusted staffing levels.
Ideal for children who benefit from additional guidance and encouragement within a smaller, more attentive group environment throughout the camp day.
Designed for children who benefit from more structure, closer supervision, and a higher level of personalized care and guidance throughout the camp day.
One-on-one support for children who benefit from consistent, dedicated assistance throughout the day, your child's very own camp companion from arrival to pickup.
Little Ranchers is built on the belief that every child, regardless of background, learning style, or ability, deserves a summer filled with joy, connection, and growth. We create a space where children feel safe to be exactly who they are, and where every small step forward is celebrated.
Ready to secure your child's spot at Little Ranchers? Fill in the details below to begin. You'll complete your enrollment forms and payment in the next steps - it only takes a few minutes!