Summer Fun at Camp Cimarron in Payne County, Oklahoma

When I was in junior high and high school, I looked forward to summertime each year, and not because it meant the escape of school, but because it mean that it was time to attend Camp Cimarron. Many of my friends were forced into music camp and sports camp and computer camp by their parents, but I chose to attend Camp Cimarron because it was one of the most entertaining ways to spend my free time.

Owned by Camp Fire Boys and Girls, Camp Cimarron is an excellent combination of human values, Christian practices, and more fun than a kid can stand. Rather than focusing on one particular activity, Cimarron touches on scores of different interests that kids of all ages are encouraged to explore. Campers are allowed to choose three main activities and one additional event in which to participate, and through the course of a seven-day session, are taught the basics in those activities.

In addition to chosen special activities, campers also participate in daily swimming hours and nightly events, such as talent shows and dances. Twelve campers each session, in the 8th-12th grades, can sign up for "Wrangler Unit," meaning that they work exclusively with the horses in Ben's Barn. They assist Horseback Staff in teaching the younger students and learn the responsibilities and duties surrounding horse care. Meals are eaten in the Canodge, which is the Camp Dining Hall, and trail rides and hikes are taken throughout the miles of trails winding through Camp Cimarron.

Each afternoon, campers also have an opportunity to have a snack at the Canteen, which sells chips, cokes, candy bars, and cookies. Parents can add a Canteen Account for their children before camp starts so that children can buy goodies. They also sell t-shirts, caps, jewelry, and other Camp Cimarron apparel for campers to take home with them.