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Trusted by Families since 1998.
Located at 2 beautiful locations in Alberta, we have offered summer camp for over 70 years. Campers choose from horseback riding, climbing, swimming, archery and range of other exciting activities. We focus on providing a highly personalized, safe, faith-oriented camp experience, encouraging each camper to develop confidence, friendship, independence and faith.
Visit the InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta website
We are a Christian camp that seeks to holistically introduce campers to Jesus, adventure, and skills, develop character & life-long friendships. Each camp session has a slightly different flavour from fun-focused, single-gender, out-tripping, skills development, horsemanship and more.
Choose the right programs and sessions for your child; InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta currently has 16 programs available; 1 TBD.
Filter activities :
Overnight Camp
Coed Ages: 1 - 18+ Traditional (multi activity)
$165 to $265
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Overnight Camp
Coed Ages: 15 - 17 CIT/LIT Program
$305
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Overnight Camp
Coed Ages: 18 - 18+ CIT/LIT Program
$305
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Overnight Camp
Coed Ages: 12 - 14 Traditional (multi activity)
$675
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Overnight Camp
Coed Ages: 10 - 12 Horseback Riding/Equestrian
$675
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Overnight Camp
All Girls Ages: 12 - 18 Wilderness Out-tripping
$1,635
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Overnight Camp
Coed Ages: 5 - 9 Traditional (multi activity)
$535
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Day Camp
Coed Ages: 5 - 9 Traditional (multi activity)
$295
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Overnight Camp
All Girls Ages: 9 - 12 Traditional (multi activity)
$675
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Overnight Camp
Coed Ages: 6 - 9 Traditional (multi activity)
$535
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Overnight Camp
All Boys Ages: 10 - 12 Traditional (multi activity)
$535
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Overnight Camp
All Boys Ages: 12 - 18 Wilderness Out-tripping
$1,465
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Overnight Camp
All Girls Ages: 10 - 12 Horseback Riding/Equestrian
$675
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Overnight Camp
Coed Ages: 9 - 12 Traditional (multi activity)
$675
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Overnight Camp
Coed Ages: 12 - 18 Traditional (multi activity)
$675
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Class/league/program
Coed Ages: 17 - 18+ Leadership (multi)
$0
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Day Camp
Coed Ages: 5 - 9 Traditional (multi activity)
$269
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Registration is online and generally opens mid to late November each year. Dates & Rates are usually posted in September. Registrations for Family Camps, Horsemanship Skills sessions and our Sr. Boys/Sr. Girls Horseback Riding Out-Trips and Sr. Skills Horse Track fill up quickly, so it's essential to register early to guarantee a spot. Deposits are required at the time of registration. Payment can be made by credit card (MasterCard, VISA/VISADebit) or by E-transfer. Financial Assistance available. Our website contains information about our Sessions, Cancellation Policies, Out-Trips, FAQs, How To Prepare For Camp, Packing Lists and much more! Have questions? Send us an email and we will respond within 2-3 business days or give us a call!
Payment Options:
Deposit required with acceptance | Yes |
Credit card payment | Yes |
Discounts
Discount if paid early | $50 |
Discount for 2nd child | $30 |
Discount for 3rd child | $60 |
Discount for 4th child | $60 |
Pioneer Camp Alberta is one of nine InterVarsity camps located across the country. The camping program was begun 1929, an expression of InterVarsity, an association of campus ministries intended to bring Christian values and awareness to young people, and support their spiritual and social growth. The camps were part of the initial vision, designed to create a unique opportunity to bring young people together around the unique challenges that a camp setting can provide. That remains perhaps more true today than ever. At camp they unplug, and turn their attention to the community they find there. The activities facilitate a greater understanding of campers’ talents and abilities, as well as the Christian values that inform the programming. The camp has grown over the years, adding new activities and facilities, all of it furthering the initial goals.
What Do You Like About Camp?
We choose Pioneer out of a number of good options/recommendations of others because of your unique combination of camp length (4 nights for her first time), horseback riding, swimming and location (within a two hour drive ... Show More
Camper Experience
She loved the relaxed feel and intimacy of staff and campers. The horsemanship and getting to be at a real, outside working camp was good for her and [she] loved it.
Year After Year
It is consistently great every year; horseback riding is a favourite, lots of great activities provided. And most importantly, the camp leaders are always amazing with the kids! That makes me feel at peace leaving my child... Show More
Activities
Wide games have always been the difference between Pioneer and other camps. I knew [our son] would have a great time because of the games. He went to [a different camp]…with some friends and said he would never go back. ... Show More
Activities
Adventurous out-trips for older campers.
Activities
Great selection of activities available.
Cabin Leaders
My daughter was anxious about not sleeping in her own home. The cabin leader helped support her through that. We couldn’t be more thankful that our kids had such a wonderful experience. Thank you!
Cabin Leaders
We have not experienced a lot of other camps…but I will say that it seems to be mostly the leaders that really make the difference. I love that the most meaningful time for our daughter is connecting with the leaders…h... Show More
Cabin Leaders
My daughter absolutely loves camp! She especially loves the connection to her cabin leader every year.
Camper Experience
Our daughter has never had anything bad to say about this camp. She counts down the days to camp every summer!
Camper Experience
Two weeks is a long time. My daughter had so much fun. We missed her more than she missed us!
Camper Experience
Loved it! My child dislikes a lot of stuff and yet he LOVES Pioneer Camp. High praise coming from him!
Camper Experience
My daughter and son rave about how much fun they both had and what amazing people they met. Excellent across the board!
Camp Memories
Our son came home from the Horsemanship Skills Session 1 Camp. He had such an amazing week and thought the Camp Leaders were so great.... Frozone, Cricket, Mowgli, Pud, Rapunzel, Acorn, Pelican, Shakes and the "Horse Husb... Show More
Camp Staff
Amazing love for all the kids in attendance.
Camp Staff
[They have a ] passion for living in faith and the dedication to each youth that attends.
Camp Staff
The staff is amazing. I just can’t say enough.
Family Camp
An opportunity to face challenges and grow as a family.
Full Days!
There are horses, great food and plenty of it, the out-trip is exciting, the layout of the land makes the games and the activities fun.
Full Days!
Horses and being outside and doing many activities that are fun and challenging. The kids get so much personally and spiritually from the experience.
Growing Up!
Empowering and [provided] a lot of confidence and excitement to my daughter.
Growing Up!
Adventurous. Boys to men. Healthy.
Growing Up!
Camp was so amazing for her last year. It totally got her out of her shell! Her confidence was through the roof after camp! [It was] like she was a whole new young girl!
Location
It’s a sleepover camp and it’s not in the city. It’s an opportunity for our children to grow both spiritually and in maturity
Location
Pioneer Camps are far from town, teaching kids to embrace their time there and helping them learn vital skills in becoming adults. Pioneer teaches the kids skills other camps don’t.
Location
Close to home and lots of age categories to choose from for our large family.
Scholarships & Life-Changing Experiences
I am so thankful for the scholarship we received that made it possible for our daughter to go to the best Christian camp, and have a life-changing experience that will impact her for the rest of her life. With tears of... Show More
New Experience
Our son noticed the Lego Theme right away when we arrived. From not wanting to stay, he didn’t want to leave. I watched him play 9 Square. That was a relief for his first camp experience!
New Experience
It’s a very safe and diverse camp. My daughter has asked numerous times to go back again next year. I’m so grateful that her first time at camp blew her mind. Thank you so much for providing such a safe and wonderful e... Show More
New Experience
Amazing! Our daughter’s first experience was all we wanted it to be.
No Electronics
I think it was great that no electronics were allowed. It is good for kids to leave them at home.
No Electronics
Clean living in fresh outdoors, with horses. As a parent, I think the no electronic device rule is great!
Registration
The support in registering and financial support makes this camp possible for my son to attend. My son always comes back with great and exciting stories, telling of all the new friends he has made and always has something ... Show More
Riding
The time she gets to spend with the horses and having pure “kid” time is priceless!
Riding
Horses and God. Perfect combination!
The Right Balance
Relaxed. Fun. Flexible. Supportive environment. I appreciate the religious component, and my son doesn’t mind that part either!
The Right Balance
Welcoming. Educational. Personal development. Incredible!
The Right Balance
Fun. Easy-going. Adventurous.
Upon Arrival
When we arrived our son became shy and didn’t want to join the other campers. [His cabin leader] came and asked him to play Frisbee and it was just what he needed. Thank you!
What Do You Like About Camp?
How outdoor minded it is, coming from the city it is great to let the kids experience a whole week of being outside, enjoying nature, etc.
What Do You Like About Camp?
My daughter comes from a split household and I believe this allows her to forget about problems and lets her be a kid.
What Do You Like About Camp?
Good Christian content. Love the way campfire is done. Like the variety of activities and physical boundaries are pushed a bit.
What Do You Like About Camp?
Long standing traditions, well-established, reputation and programs that focus on our kids.
What Do You Like About Camp?
Our kids were challenged by the horses and waterfront and overcame some of their fears! What a success!
What Do You Like About Camp?
Pioneer Camps are far from town, teaching kids to embrace their time there and helping them learn vital skills in becoming adults. Pioneer teaches the kids skills other camps don’t.
What Do You Like About Camp?
I love the Christian programming. My kids loved the campfire songs and we are still singing them!
What Do You Like About Camp?
The people, the kindness, the positive atmosphere, the feeling of security, the cohesion, the landscape.
What Do You Like About Camp?
Gave my child more confidence and self-esteem.
Year After Year
My son comes home so completely happy and satisfied year after year – he looks forward to camp all year long.
Year After Year
Most anticipated week of summer! Real life experience. Fun. Memories to last a life time!
Where I belong.
Pioneer Alberta is very important to me. I have learned to ride horses, canoe, climb the rock wall and most importantly learn about Jesus Christ. Camp has taught me true friendship, is a place where I belong, and it makes ... Show More
Year After Year
I had a fantastic time. I would like to come back next year.
Pioneer Camp had its genesis in 1942, but no permanent home was found for the camp until almost ten years later. Founded in 1951, Pioneer Camp has been operating ever since as a life-changing summer camp for children and youth.
We are committed to seeing young people transformed by the love of God actively at work in their lives. We are part of a network of nine InterVarsity camps across Canada operating under the names Circle Square and Pioneer Camp. InterVarsity has been providing summer camps and year-round programs for children, youth, young adults, and families since 1929.
In addition to our summer camp ministry, we also operate as a retreat centre from September to June. Please click here for information.
It is my honour to serve as the General Director of Alberta Pioneer. I have been involved with Pioneer for my whole life, and love the ways we get to invite campers, staff, and guests to meet Jesus and live adventurously. We look forward to having you join us.
Pioneer’s volunteer summer staff members undergo a rigorous application and interview process. Following the completion of a written application package requiring three references, staff are interviewed by the director and are required to have a criminal record check completed before they can work with children. Most of our staff are volunteers throughout the summer and many have been a part of Pioneer as campers, and now love to give new campers the amazing, life-changing experiences they had.
Sports facilities
Landscape
More details about property: PIONEER LODGE BARNS & ARENA: Take a walk down to the barn and meet the Lodge horses! Covered riding arena and outdoor arenas and corrals are perfect for lessons and programming involving our herd (mounted archery, games, teaching times, etc.). Numerous onsite trails to choose from. Enjoy the unique perspective of exploring the natural beauty of the land from horseback. LODGE MAIN GROUNDS: Archery Range, Basketball and Volleyball Courts, Climbing Wall, Fire Pits, Hiking Trails Indoor Recreation Room (with Ping-Pong and Foosball), Initiative Task Course, Playing Field, Pond for Canoeing & Water Activities, Riding Trails, Seasonal Swimming Pool, Sledding Hills, Wagon Ride / Sleigh Ride Trails RANCH BARNS & ARENAS: Take a stroll down to the barn and meet the Ranch horses! Large stalls and arenas for lessons and programming involving our herd (games, teaching times, etc.) Greenspace abounds for grazing and working with the horses. See our newly renovated Tack Shed. Over an hour and a half of onsite trails to explore by horseback. Discover the natural beauty that abounds at Pioneer Ranch from horseback. RANCH MAIN GROUNDS: Archery Range, Basketball Court, Climbing Wall, Fire Pits, Hiking Trails, Indoor Recreation Room (with Ping-Pong and Foosball), Initiative Task Course, Lake with Waterfront Access, Riding Trails, Wagon Ride / Sleigh Ride Trails, Two Meeting Rooms, Large Hall for Events, Library, Outdoor Amphitheater, Playing Field
Sleeping Accommodations
Amenities
Washrooms Facilities
More details about accommodations: TWO GREAT LOCATIONS!! PIONEER LODGE IS LOCATED 16 KM SOUTHWEST OF SUNDRE, overlooking the Red Deer River Valley with a fantastic view of the Rockies! The central Lodge has a large dining room, kitchen and meeting areas. Nikki’s Chalet, an additional meeting area, is a one minute walk down the hill from the Lodge. Guests either stay in dorm or twin rooms in the main Lodge or in heated cabins with twin or bunk-beds. Cabins are one large room on the main floor, with an overhead loft. The cabins are winterized, insulated, heated by gas and have electricity. PIONEER RANCH IS LOCATED ON CRIMSON LAKE, 16 KM NORTTHWEST OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE. Guests stay in cozy cabins along the shores of the lake. The central Ranch House has a large dining room, kitchen, and two meeting areas. The North Lodge, an additional meeting area, is located next to the Ranch House. Guests stay in cabins with bunk beds. Most cabins are one large room with bunks along the walls. Winterized cabins are insulated and heated with gas stoves. Summer cabins are insulated and heated with a wood stove. All cabins have electricity.
Are meals provided? Yes.
Is InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta technology free? Yes. Please leave cell phones, tablets and laptops at home. We are not responsible for any lost or broken items at camp.
Offers outdoor education program for schools or corporate groups: Yes
Our site in Sundre (Pioneer Lodge) and Rocky Mountain House (Pioneer Ranch) both offer outdoor education programs for school groups. Contact us and we'll work with you to put together a program that your students won't forget!
Available for private rentals: Yes
Our sites in Sundre (Pioneer Lodge) and Rocky Mountain House (Pioneer Ranch) both offer year round rentals to school groups, churches or other groups. Come join us on the archery range, at the climbing wall or on a trail ride! We have a ton of activities for you to participate in and a great staff to facilitate your time with us!
Cabin rentals also available for family getaways. Give us a call!
March 19, 2023
Staff & Volunteer Positions Available at Pioneer Camp Alberta!
Apply for seasonal staff & volunteer positions for summer 2023 at Pioneer Camp Alberta! ... Read More
Thank you for using Camps.ca —An Our Kids platform.
Trusted by Families since 1998.
Thank you for your interest in InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta. They will be in touch with you shortly.
Thank you for using Camps.ca —An Our Kids platform.
Trusted by Families since 1998.
Thank you for your interest in InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta. They will send you information about this session:
Thank you for using Camps.ca —An Our Kids platform.
Trusted by Families since 1998.
Questions about InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta?