Magness Adventure Camp

Nestled within the scenic expanse of the Black Forest, with sweeping views of Pikes Peak and the majestic Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Magness Adventure Camp stands as a premier destination for outdoor education and recreation in Colorado. More than just a campground, Magness Adventure Camp is a vibrant hub for transformative experiences, particularly for youth, fostering leadership, self-reliance, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Operated by Scouting Colorado, this facility is designed to offer a dynamic environment where adventure and learning converge.

Magness Adventure Camp prides itself on providing a safe, engaging, and inspiring setting for a wide array of programs, from immersive summer camps for Cub Scouts and other youth groups to specialized training for adult leaders. It's a place where campers can challenge themselves, acquire new skills, build lasting friendships, and create unforgettable memories against the backdrop of Colorado's breathtaking landscapes. The camp's rich history, as part of the larger McNeil Scout Ranch at Peaceful Valley, speaks to its enduring legacy in fostering character development and outdoor stewardship.

For Colorado locals, Magness Adventure Camp represents an invaluable resource for family-friendly outdoor adventures and youth development opportunities right in their backyard. This article will provide a detailed overview of what makes Magness Adventure Camp a standout choice for your next outdoor escapade, covering its convenient location, the diverse services it offers, and the unique highlights that set it apart as a true Colorado gem. Prepare to discover a place where adventure knows no bounds and the spirit of the outdoors thrives.

Magness Adventure Camp is conveniently located at 22799 N Elbert Rd, Elbert, CO 80106, USA. This prime location places it within easy driving distance for many residents of the greater Denver metropolitan area and surrounding Colorado communities. Situated on the west side of the extensive McNeil Scout Ranch at Peaceful Valley, the camp benefits from the tranquil and picturesque setting of the Black Forest.

Access to Magness Adventure Camp is straightforward, typically involving a drive south from Denver on I-25, then transitioning onto Highway 86 and finally to Elbert Highway. While the address is easily navigable by GPS, visitors should be aware that the camp is part of a larger scout ranch, and it's essential to look for specific signage for Magness Adventure Camp to ensure proper entry. There are multiple entrances to the overall ranch, with Gate 2 typically leading to Magness Adventure Camp, while Gate 1 leads to Camp Cris Dobbins and Camp Dietler. Parking is generally available, though it might be a short walk from the parking area to some of the specific camp facilities. Visitors are encouraged to bring wagons for transporting gear if they have them. The rural setting means visitors should be prepared for typical unpaved camp roads, but the overall accessibility makes it a feasible destination for weekend trips and extended stays. Its proximity to towns like Elizabeth and Castle Rock ensures that essential services and amenities are within a reasonable drive, allowing for both immersion in nature and convenient access to modern conveniences if needed.

Services Offered:

• Overnight camping experiences, particularly for Cub Scouts and other youth groups, typically lasting 3-4 days.
• Age-specific and grade-appropriate programs for various Cub Scout ranks (Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos I, Arrow of Light).
• A wide variety of program areas and activities, including sports, handicrafts, and nature studies.
• Access to a beautiful lake for aquatic activities such as swimming, canoeing, and paddle boating.
• Archery and BB gun ranges with supervised instruction.
• Rock climbing opportunities, often part of structured adventure programs.
• Dining hall services providing meals for campers (dietary restrictions can typically be accommodated with prior arrangement).
• Sleeping accommodations, often in canvas wall tents on raised wooden platforms, though campers may have the option to bring their own tents.
• Dedicated staff providing instruction, supervision, and program facilitation.
• Opportunities for siblings (age 6 and up) to participate in some camp activities with specific sibling programs during Cub Scout-only times.
• Facility rentals for various groups, including birthday parties, adventure overnights, field trips, business meetings, workshops, and pack/troop/group activity days.
• Support for earning merit badges and rank requirements for Cub Scouts.
• Potable water sources available throughout the camp for hydration.
• Vault toilets and shower facilities (campers are advised to bring shower sandals).

Features / Highlights:

• Premier Cub Scout Resident Camp: Magness Adventure Camp is a primary facility for the Denver Area Council (DAC) of the Boy Scouts of America, offering comprehensive and exciting resident camp programs tailored for Cub Scouts.
• Stunning Natural Setting: Situated in the Black Forest with panoramic views of Pikes Peak, the camp provides an inspiring and picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities, offering an authentic Colorado experience.
• Diverse Activity Offerings: Beyond traditional camping, the camp boasts a wide array of adventure and skill-building activities, including a beautiful lake for water sports, archery and BB gun ranges, and rock climbing, ensuring there's something to engage every camper.
• Focus on Youth Development: The camp's programs are designed to foster leadership, teamwork, self-confidence, and a love for the outdoors, contributing significantly to the personal growth of young participants.
• Structured and Supervised Environment: With dedicated staff and age-appropriate programming, the camp provides a safe and supportive setting for youth to explore new challenges and learn valuable life skills.
• Year-Round Versatility: While known for its summer camps, the broader McNeil Scout Ranch offers activities and facility rentals for various events throughout the year, showcasing its adaptability for different groups and seasons.
• Convenient Proximity to Denver: Despite its natural setting, the camp is approximately an hour's drive from downtown Denver, making it easily accessible for families and groups from the metropolitan area.
• Colorado Adventure Point Connection: Magness Adventure Camp is closely associated with Colorado Adventure Point, a year-round facility offering hands-on learning, leadership training, and high-adventure activities, further expanding the scope of opportunities.

Contact Information:

Address: 22799 N Elbert Rd, Elbert, CO 80106, USA

For general inquiries or information regarding programs and facilities, please contact Scouting Colorado:

Scouting Colorado Main Office Phone Number: (720) 266-2140 (This is a general contact for the council that operates Magness Adventure Camp)

For specific program registration or details, it is highly recommended to visit the official Scouting Colorado website or relevant event registration platforms like Doubleknot or ScoutingEvent.com, as direct camp phone numbers for day-to-day inquiries are often routed through the main council office.

Website for more information and specific event registrations: scoutingcolorado.org

For residents of Colorado, Magness Adventure Camp is an exceptional local resource that offers far more than just a place to sleep under the stars. It represents a fantastic opportunity for families and youth groups to engage with the natural beauty of their home state while participating in structured, enriching activities. The camp's dedicated focus on youth development, particularly through its Cub Scout programs, means parents can confidently send their children to an environment that prioritizes learning, skill-building, and character formation. For those seeking adventure, the camp's access to a lake, archery and BB gun ranges, and rock climbing facilities provide ample opportunities for active engagement.

Beyond organized programs, Magness Adventure Camp's setting in the Black Forest, with stunning views of Pikes Peak, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it perfect for family camping trips or group retreats. Its relatively close proximity to major population centers like Denver means it’s easily accessible for weekend excursions, minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment. Whether you're looking to introduce your children to the joys of camping, seeking a venue for a scout troop event, or an organization planning an outdoor team-building retreat, Magness Adventure Camp delivers a well-rounded and memorable experience tailored to the Colorado spirit of adventure and community. It's truly a local treasure, fostering a love for the outdoors and building foundational skills for future generations of Colorado explorers.

Magness Adventure Camp

22799 N Elbert Rd, Elbert, CO 80106, USA