Summer 2022 Expeditions FAQ’s
This FAQ’s resource is intended to help our camper families to understand our Expeditions Program. The questions and answers below are many we field as new families determine if TVRC Expeditions is a fit for their child.
If you have any additional questions or wish to set up a time to discuss the program in more detail please feel free to reach out to our Admissions Manager, Matthew McGee
To set a meeting with Matthew Visit his Calendar
To view the Parent Handbook click here
Expeditions is a two week backpacking program that embarks on a variety of incredible trips in the backcountry of Wyoming. The base camp is located on the Ranch property at Old Cabin Meadows, but the facilities are different from what campers use during our Traditional camp. Unlike our Traditional program, which is centered around western experiences and horseback riding, the Expeditions program is focused on wilderness backpacking experiences.
The Outriders program was created for our 2020 season which we ran instead of our Traditional program due to limitations during the Pandemic. That summer, pack trips were included in the program. Moving forward, Expeditions will only include backpacking trips and no longer involves horses. We feel that changing the name to Expeditions will be less confusing. You can leave your jeans and cowboy boots at home!
See attached Expedition Pack-list
Since there is no cell service or internet connection at Old Cabin Meadows and on the trail, there will be very little communication with your camper. Trail Counselors do carry SAT phones with them so they can call the ranch and can be reached in case of an emergency. For information about your camper, contact our Expeditions Coordinator by calling (307) 455-2885 or expeditions@tvrcamp.org.
Because photos are taken in the backcountry with no cell service or internet connection, we are not able to upload photos until they return from their trips. Updates will therefore not occur daily, but we will upload photos directly into CampMinder where families can access them once a trip returns.
No. All luggage must be brought with your camper. Ideally, campers arrive with everything they need packed in the backpack which they will carry on trail. A small carry-on style bag may provide useful additional packing space.
There is no visitation since very little time is spent on the Ranch and those days are filled with resupplying and programming. We encourage you to come to the Ranch for Departure Day. You may visit the Expeditions Base Camp and/or Camp Proper facilities if you desire and circumstances permit.
Laundry will be provided once between trips when they are resupplying and resting at the Ranch. Expect dirty clothes to return at the end of camp.
It’s not so much about prior experience, but a willingness to try new things and stick with challenges. The Expedition program focuses on wilderness backpacking trips in the remote mountain ranges of Northwest Wyoming. Does your camper want to take on new challenges and are they excited about outdoor adventures? It’s ok to be nervous with the understanding that these experiences are difficult. The Expedition programs participate in authentically challenging backpacking trips with both significant mileage and elevation gain in the mountains. Your camper’s personality and attitude will have a big impact on whether they enjoy this experience and are successful or not. Do they make friends easily, get along with others, and generally have a positive attitude? How do they deal with setbacks, challenges and/or new situations?