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InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta

Locations: Rocky Mountain House, AB; Calgary, AB

InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta

Locations: Rocky Mountain House, AB; Calgary, AB

Type:

Day camp, Overnight camp, Family programs
Focus:

Traditional (multi activity)
Cost:

$165 to $1,635/session
Ages:

5 to 19
Gender:

Coed, All Girls, All Boys
Main language:

English
Capacity:

Varies
Programs:

View 16 available; 1 TBD
Reviews:

View 52 available
e-Brochure:

View e-brochure

Request more info

Della Ganske

View phone number

Visit camp's website

Overview
Here's what makes InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta stand out
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 a 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.

Special needs: Not available

Religious affiliation: Christian
Visit the InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta website

Upcoming Events

May 30, 2025
Pioneer Women's Weekend
07:00 pm

June 15, 2025
Leaders In Training Registration Deadline
11:55 pm

Programs, Rates & Dates

Programs and Sessions Calendar

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.

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Type/Gender

Specialty

Location

Date

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Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 1 - 18+

Traditional (multi activity)

$165 to $265

Calgary, AB PO Box 660	Jun 27-30		$165 - $265
Rocky Mountain House, AB 403048 Buster Creek Rd.	Jun 27-30		$165 - $265

Leaders-In-Training 1 (LIT1)

view details

Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 15 - 17

CIT/LIT Program

$305

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Jul 01-12

$305

Leaders-In-Training 2 (LIT2)

view details

Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 18 - 18+

CIT/LIT Program

$305

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Jul 01-12

$305

view details

Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 12 - 14

Traditional (multi activity)

$675

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Jul 07-12

$675

Horsemanship Skills

view details

Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 10 - 12

Horseback Riding/Equestrian

$675

Calgary, AB
PO Box 660

Jul 07-12

$675

view details

Overnight Camp
All Girls
Ages: 12 - 18

Wilderness Out-tripping

$1,635

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Jul 14-26

$1,635

Overnight Explorer

view details

Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 5 - 9

Traditional (multi activity)

$535

Calgary, AB
PO Box 660

Jul 21-25

$535

Day Camp Explorer

view details

Day Camp
Coed
Ages: 5 - 9

Traditional (multi activity)

$295

Calgary, AB
PO Box 660

Jul 22-25

$295

view details

Overnight Camp
All Girls
Ages: 9 - 12

Traditional (multi activity)

$675

Calgary, AB
PO Box 660

Jul 28-Aug 02

$675

view details

Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 6 - 9

Traditional (multi activity)

$535

Calgary, AB
PO Box 660

Aug 05-09

$535

view details

Overnight Camp
All Boys
Ages: 10 - 12

Traditional (multi activity)

$535

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Aug 05-09

$535

view details

Overnight Camp
All Boys
Ages: 12 - 18

Wilderness Out-tripping

$1,465

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Aug 05-16

$1,465

Girls Horsemanship

view details

Overnight Camp
All Girls
Ages: 10 - 12

Horseback Riding/Equestrian

$675

Calgary, AB
PO Box 660

Aug 11-16

$675

view details

Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 9 - 12

Traditional (multi activity)

$675

Calgary, AB
PO Box 660

Aug 18-23

$675

view details

Overnight Camp
Coed
Ages: 12 - 18

Traditional (multi activity)

$675

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd.

Aug 18-23

$675

LEAD (Leadership Experience and Discipleship) Program

view details

Class/league/program
Coed
Ages: 17 - 18+

Leadership (multi)

$0

Calgary, AB
PO Box 660

Sep 02, 2025-Apr 30, 2026

$0

view details

Day Camp
Coed
Ages: 5 - 9

Traditional (multi activity)

$269

Calgary, AB PO Box 660	Date TBD		Cost TBD
Rocky Mountain House, AB 403048 Buster Creek Rd.	Date TBD		Cost TBD

Registration Details

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!

Financial Aid & Payment Details

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

Register or request details

Reviews & Insider Perspectives

The Our Kids review of InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta

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.

Visit the InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta website

More reviews of InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta

Show all 52 reviews

Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
Read review

Parent, Parent

Camper Experience
Read review

Parent, Parent

Year After Year
Read review

Parent, Parent

Activities
Read review

Parent, Parent

Activities
Read review

Parent, Parent

Activities
Read review

Parent, Parent

Cabin Leaders
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Parent, Parent

Cabin Leaders
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Parent, Parent

Cabin Leaders
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Parent, Parent

Camper Experience
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Parent, Parent

Camper Experience
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Parent, Parent

Camper Experience
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Parent, Parent

Camper Experience
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Camper Parent, Parent

Camp Memories
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Parent, Parent

Camp Staff
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Parent, Parent

Camp Staff
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Parent, Parent

Camp Staff
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Parent, Parent

Family Camp
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Parent, Parent

Full Days!
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Parent, Parent

Full Days!
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Parent, Parent

Growing Up!
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Parent, Parent

Growing Up!
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Parent, Parent

Growing Up!
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Parent, Parent

Location
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Parent, Parent

Location
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Parent, Parent

Location
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Parent , Parent

Scholarships & Life-Changing Experiences
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Parent, Parent

New Experience
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Parent, Parent

New Experience
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Parent, Parent

New Experience
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Parent, Parent

No Electronics
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Parent, Parent

No Electronics
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Parent, Parent

Registration
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Parent, Parent

Riding
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Parent, Parent

Riding
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Parent, Parent

The Right Balance
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Parent, Parent

The Right Balance
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Parent, Parent

The Right Balance
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Parent, Parent

Upon Arrival
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Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
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Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
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Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
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Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
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Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
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Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
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Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
Read review

Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
Read review

Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?
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Parent, Parent

Year After Year
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Parent, Parent

Year After Year
Read review

Mason - age 10, Camper

Where I belong.
Read review

Camper, Camper

Year After Year
Read review

More reviews of InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Alberta

Parent, Parent

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 of Calgary) ... Show More

Parent, Parent

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.

Parent, Parent

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 there a week ... Show More

Parent, Parent

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

Parent, Parent

Activities

Adventurous out-trips for older campers.

Parent, Parent

Activities

Great selection of activities available.

Parent, Parent

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!

Parent, Parent

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

Parent, Parent

Cabin Leaders

My daughter absolutely loves camp! She especially loves the connection to her cabin leader every year.

Parent, Parent

Camper Experience

Our daughter has never had anything bad to say about this camp. She counts down the days to camp every summer!

Parent, Parent

Camper Experience

Two weeks is a long time. My daughter had so much fun. We missed her more than she missed us!

Parent, Parent

Camper Experience

Loved it! My child dislikes a lot of stuff and yet he LOVES Pioneer Camp. High praise coming from him!

Parent, Parent

Camper Experience

My daughter and son rave about how much fun they both had and what amazing people they met. Excellent across the board!

Camper Parent, Parent

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

Parent, Parent

Camp Staff

Amazing love for all the kids in attendance.

Parent, Parent

Camp Staff

[They have a ] passion for living in faith and the dedication to each youth that attends.

Parent, Parent

Camp Staff

The staff is amazing. I just can’t say enough.

Parent, Parent

Family Camp

An opportunity to face challenges and grow as a family.

Parent, Parent

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.

Parent, Parent

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.

Parent, Parent

Growing Up!

Empowering and [provided] a lot of confidence and excitement to my daughter.

Parent, Parent

Growing Up!

Adventurous. Boys to men. Healthy.

Parent, Parent

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!

Parent, Parent

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

Parent, Parent

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.

Parent, Parent

Location

Close to home and lots of age categories to choose from for our large family.

Parent , Parent

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 gratitude, A Sr. Girls Paren ... Show More

Parent, Parent

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!

Parent, Parent

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 experience ... Show More

Parent, Parent

New Experience

Amazing! Our daughter’s first experience was all we wanted it to be.

Parent, Parent

No Electronics

I think it was great that no electronics were allowed. It is good for kids to leave them at home.

Parent, Parent

No Electronics

Clean living in fresh outdoors, with horses. As a parent, I think the no electronic device rule is great!

Parent, Parent

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 positive to say about his mentor. ... Show More

Parent, Parent

Riding

The time she gets to spend with the horses and having pure “kid” time is priceless!

Parent, Parent

Riding

Horses and God. Perfect combination!

Parent, Parent

The Right Balance

Relaxed. Fun. Flexible. Supportive environment. I appreciate the religious component, and my son doesn’t mind that part either!

Parent, Parent

The Right Balance

Welcoming. Educational. Personal development. Incredible!

Parent, Parent

The Right Balance

Fun. Easy-going. Adventurous.

Parent, Parent

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!

Parent, Parent

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.

Parent, Parent

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.

Parent, Parent

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.

Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?

Long standing traditions, well-established, reputation and programs that focus on our kids.

Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?

Our kids were challenged by the horses and waterfront and overcame some of their fears! What a success!

Parent, Parent

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.

Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?

I love the Christian programming. My kids loved the campfire songs and we are still singing them!

Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?

The people, the kindness, the positive atmosphere, the feeling of security, the cohesion, the landscape.

Parent, Parent

What Do You Like About Camp?

Gave my child more confidence and self-esteem.

Parent, Parent

Year After Year

My son comes home so completely happy and satisfied year after year – he looks forward to camp all year long.

Parent, Parent

Year After Year

Most anticipated week of summer! Real life experience. Fun. Memories to last a life time!

Mason - age 10, Camper

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

Camper, Camper

Year After Year

I had a fantastic time. I would like to come back next year.

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Meet the Staff

Director's Message

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.

Staff and Counsellors

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.

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Location & Operations
Address

Rocky Mountain House, AB
403048 Buster Creek Rd., Rocky Mountain House, AB, T4T 1A4
Calgary, AB
PO Box 660, Sundre, Alberta, T0M 1X0
Property Details

Sports facilities

Archery Range
Basketball Court
Climbing Wall
Horseback Riding Arena (indoor/outdoor)
Soccer Field
Swimming Pool

Landscape

Forested Area
Lake/Pond/River
Nature Trails
Open Field

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
Accommodations

Sleeping Accommodations

Cabins
Dorm or Building
Tents

Amenities

Electricity in Sleeping Area
Shower in Sleeping Area
Toilet in Sleeping Area

Washrooms Facilities

Flush Toilets
Showers (indoor)

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.
Rentals & Services

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!

Associations
What's New

In the News

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

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