Cowboy Camp

An agricultural literacy initiative

The Mission of Cowboy Camp

The mission of Cowboy Camp is to increase agricultural literacy by providing young people with a pathway to future agricultural involvement through their own interests and unique angles of advocacy; whether that be the future producer who raises food, an engineer who designs machinery to harvest it, a lawmaker who creates legislation to support agriculture or as an informed consumer.

Cowboy Camp supports the 4-H Beyond Ready initiative and creates a learning environment where young people can master skills, chase their dreams, and thrive in a changing world.

2027 Information Coming Soon! Registration opens the last Saturday in January 

Register for Cowboy Camp


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About Cowboy Camp

During this three day, overnight experience, teens will have the opportunity to connect with agricultural communities, practices and producers.

Every camp activity is intentionally designed to teach, inform and provide accurate sources of information.

Intermediates and Seniors (Ages 11-18) 

 

"Cowboy Camp was awesome! I loved spending time outdoors 

doing agriculture & wildlife related activities. Listening to the speakers helped me learn more about the careers I am interested in. Also, being outdoors with awesome people is a blast!!"

- 2026 Cowboy Camp Participant

Outdoor Education

4-H youth shooting a bow and arrow at Cowboy Camp

Utah's public lands support both agriculture and outdoor recreation. 

Grazing provides various benefits by supporting watersheds, wildlife habitats and ranching in rural communities. Responsible grazing helps to keep our public lands healthy and thriving by reducing the risk of wildfires and controlling invasive species.

At Cowboy Camp, participants will embark on hikes, canoe, shoot a bow and arrow, fish, and visit some of Utah's most stunning landscapes; including Bryce Canyon National Park. 

4-H Mock Envirothon

Cowboy Campers hiking Bryce Canyon National Park

Utah's ranchers and farmers work hard every day to not only secure our food sources, but to also be good stewards of the land. As young people work through the five Envirothon stations, they will learn how Utah's soil, wildlife, pollinators, and water are all connected to agriculture. 

Soils and Land Use 
Forestry 
Wildlife
Aquatic Ecology
Current Issue 

Develop Cowboy Skills

4-H youth roping at Cowboy Camp

Swing a rope, catch a steer, and practice to take home the title of Cowboy Camp Top Hand! 

Cowboy Camp's unique design allows for young people to connect with industry experts.

While at camp, youth campers will have the opportunity to learn from real cowboys and cowgirls, eat locally grown commodities, and try their hand at the skills farmers and ranchers use on their productions. 

Mule Rides

4-H youth riding a mule at Cowboy Camp

Explore the scenic beauty of Southern Utah from the back of a mule. Riders who choose this adventure will embark on a ride to Willis Creek Narrows through slot canyons. This ride, guided by Mecham Outfitters, tops out to a panoramic view of the Colorado Plateau Region.

Riders do not need extensive riding experience, but must be able to complete the entire ride.

Weight Limit is 240 lbs

All riders must wear long pants, closed toed shoes and a helmet.

 

2026 Top Hand Buckle

 

Cowboy Camp Top Hand Competition

Each year at camp, a new Top Hand is named! This award recognizes the participant who demonstrates outstanding leadership, and a strong understanding of the knowledge and skills taught throughout the week, all while embodying the mission of Cowboy Camp.

The 2026 competition included: 

  • Archery
  • Cowboy Poetry
  • Knowledge Quiz
  • Team Fishing Challenge
  • Roping

Thank you to our sponsors & community partners!