Swim, paddle, and splash on our beautiful Colorado waters!
If you like getting wet and staying cool, the A/U Ranches Water major is the answer for you! In addition to several lakes on our property and a junior Olympic-size pool, we are a short distance from high alpine lakes and the Arkansas River, with a full range of rapids and a world-class river park. Swim, canoe, raft, kayak, and have the time of your life!
Water Programs
Waterfront Rising 5th- to 8th-graders
You'll learn a range of waterfront skills appropriate to your abilities and grade level. Learn to navigate water craft, including canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Practice common swim strokes and develop your water treading capacity with drills and games in our junior Olympic-sized pool. Then take your skills on the road for your three-day outtrip, where you will explore alpine lakes like Twin Lakes and Turquoise Lake. Rising 7th- and 8th-graders will also get a taste of rafting on the Arkansas River! Previous water experience is not necessary to join this program.
Whitewater Rafting Rising 9th- to 12th-graders
Experience the most popular whitewater in Colorado – the Arkansas River. Our river guide counselors are certified by the State of Colorado and will teach you all about river safety and rafting techniques. You, too, have the awesome opportunity to learn how to be a raft guide! But rafting is not a solo job – you'll paddle as a “boat family” while developing your skills and confidence. Campers in this program will be required to pass a swim test at the beginning of the session. Welcome to the Arkansas River!
Rafting Outcamp Rising 9th- to 12th-graders Session 3 only
This unique program – new in 2025 – offers campers all the amazing experiences of our Whitewater Rafting program, with the added bonus of participating in a five-day river trip. Come journey down the Arkansas River, conquer rapids, camp under the stars, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Campers in this program will be required to pass a swim test at the beginning of the session.
Whitewater Kayaking Rising 9th- to 12th-graders
Our kayaking program is perfect for campers comfortable with the river and ready for a new challenge. Start off on the camp lakes and in the pool as you learn paddling techniques, kayak rolling, and rescue skills before moving on to the Arkansas River. Local river parks are perfect for developing river confidence and skills before moving to moderate sections of the river and a culminating paddle. Campers in this program will be required to pass a swim test at the beginning of the session.