We have hosted church and youth retreats for over 20 years.

We run summertime retreats continuously from May through September. There are three different sessions available, Sunday through Tuesday, Monday through Wednesday, or Sunday through Thursday. Each season the returning groups become larger as word spreads of the good time to be found at River Ranch Resort. Kids enjoy the clean, well kept grounds and cabins and the many activities the river and resort have to offer, while the adult chaperones enjoy the rest and relaxation that comes with us doing all the cooking, serving, and cleaning. This would explain the 87% repeat business we see. Join the many groups from the far reaches of the four state area and all points between, on the beautiful Elk River for fun and fellowship. Call early to reserve the dates that work best for your group.  We also can usually accommodate off season dates as well, and weekends are ok during this time.

Retreat Prices and Information

Starting Package to include:

3 days – 2 nights in A/C cabins with a 5 mile canoe trip lasting 2-3 hours depending on how long you wish to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Elk River. Includes 5 home cooked meals, sand volleyball, basketball, swimming dock, and 60 acres to hike and explore. You will get a fireside devotional on both nights, including a complimentary marshmallow roast on the second night. We also have an A/C Rendezvous Room for prayer, church service, and bible study that will accommodate up to 200 people. We also offer a mini raft float on your arrival date if you make it here before 2:00 pm.

We have slashed the prices so that it is more affordable for your groups to come and enjoy the outdoors and really be exposed to the beauty that God provides to us!

Group SizeCost Per Person
Minimum of 10$90 per person
Additional Days$30 per person per day (meals provided) 
*Sunday – Thursday Only. Must be checking out on Thursday.

We Also Have Several Upgrade Options Available

Upgrade Option #1 – Live Christian DJ
For $200 per evening we can arrange a live christian DJ so your group doesn’t have to worry about providing a time of worship! Another way we can take some pressure off so you can let the spirt work within you and your trip!

Upgrade Option #2 – Acoustic Worship team
For $75 per evening we can arrange a acoustic worship team to come and provide a more intimate time of worship. This is another great way we can take some pressure off so you can let the spirt work within you and your trip!

Upgrade Option #3 – Bow & Arrow Shooting with trained instructor
For $100 per 2 hour session you can have your interested youth get some time to learn from a trained instructor the basics and have fun shooting a bow & arrow! How cool would that be for some of your kiddos!

Upgrade Option #4 – add $10 per person
Add a tour of Bluff Dwellers Cavern. The area’s most scenic cavern! (Nice savings over $12.00 full admission price.)

Upgrade Option #5 – The Ultimate Meal Selection
This option has several different things to choose from

  1. Grilled boneless Chicken thighs $8 per person
  2. 1/2 rack baby-back ribs $10 per person
  3. Texas Jack Ribeye Steaks- $25 per person

Upgrade Option #6-add $15 per person per day
Upgrade to one of our 6 lodge cabins. 1-4 are along the beautiful Elk River for spectacular views, 5 and 6 are located close to the volleyball court and our swim areas. These sleep 16-24 people depending on which cabins are selected. 

Upgrade Option #7 – $300 per use
We also offer a 3,500 sq. ft Rendezvous Room that can be reserved to provide beautiful riverside dining, church services, or bible study. Includes A/V equipment as well as a 120″ screen for presentations. This room can be reserved based upon availability! Your group will not be disappointed with this option!

A 50% deposit along with a copy of your tax exempt letter will secure your retreat package for your desired date.
NOTE: Credit card payments add 5% service charge

Your Retreat Itinerary

Here is your basic itinerary of our church retreat package that your group can expect here at River Ranch Resort. Ideally a chaperone for every ten youths is a good rule of thumb; of course this can vary from group to group. We expect chaperones to not only be ambassadors but responsible for conduct, safety, and general guidance while at the resort. Below are times and schedules of activities that we have found work well, for a smooth and rewarding experience during your stay at River Ranch Resort. Retreat director Gary Duke is in charge of all activities. He will be available day and night should any questions or special situations arise. Suggestions and input as to how we can improve your spiritual retreat are always welcome.

TimeItinerary
Day 1IF YOU ARRIVE BY 2:00 PM. A COMPLIMENTARY SHORT RAFT FLOAT IS AVAILABLE. Please let Gary know 1st thing upon arrival if you are interested in this option.
6:00pmDinner will be served at the Hungry Camper Café in the Company Store. Fresh baked pizza, dessert cups and unlimited fountain drinks will be served.
7:00-9:00pmFree time. At this time, hand-dipped ice cream will be open.
9:00-11:00pmFree time-sand volleyball, swimming, Bible study and a fireside devotional.
11:00pmIs quiet time; everyone in their cabin lights out. No wandering around the park.
Day 2 
8:00amBreakfast at the Hungry Camper Café: a variety of cold cereals, hot biscuits and sausage gravy, milk, orange juice or unlimited fountain drinks.
10:00amFloat departure time. Meet Gary at the floating shed ready to depart for the float trip and remember to have your cabin key so that they can be held while you float. (DO NOT TAKE THEM OUT ON THE RIVER)Your float lunch will include ham and turkey subs, chips, cookies, and water will be packed and ready to eat while on your float. You will be responsible for your own personal drinks, snacks, and coolers for your float. You will also need to bring sun block, hat, and river shoes. If you should forget one of these items we will have them in stock at our 6000 sq. ft. Company Store.
6:00pmDinner will be served at the Hungary Camper Café in the Company Store. Jumbo all beef hot dogs, baked beans, potato chips and unlimited fountain drinks will be on the menu.
7:00-9:00pmFree time. At this time hand dipped ice cream will be open.
9:00-11:00pmFree time-sand volleyball, swimming, Bible study and a fireside devotional with marshmallow roast.
11:00pmIs quiet time; everyone in their cabin lights out. No wandering around the park.
Day 3 
8:00amBreakfast at the Hungry Camper Café: a variety of cold cereals, hot biscuits and sausage gravy, milk, orange juice or unlimited fountain drinks.
10:00amIs check out time and cabin inspections. At this time you can either head to Bluff Dweller’s Cavern or depart for home.

IF YOU ARE READY TO BOOK YOUR SUMMER RETREAT OR IF YOU JUST HAVE SOME QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS PLEASE CONTACT GARY DUKE AT RIVER RANCH RESORT

PHONE—(800) 951-6121

EMAIL—events@riverranchresort.com