Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp - Covid-19 Updates

Interim Executive Director

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 17:11:58 GMT

Sky Ranch Appoints Interim Executive Director

Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp is pleased to announce the appointment of Missie Bonser as Interim Executive Director.

Missie joined Sky Ranch in April 2025 as Interim Youth and Outreach Program Director and helped lead us through the summer season. Prior to joining Sky Ranch, Missie served as Director of Development for a global anti-trafficking non-profit, as Program Director at Lutherock in NC, and for 28 years in youth, worship, missions and leadership ministries at Trinity Lutheran in Monument, CO. Ordained as an ELCA Deacon, Missie brings a wealth of experience and relationships that will continue to grow Sky Ranch’s mission to facilitate an encounter with Christ on the mountaintops.

Missie and her husband Howard, have called Palmer Lake, Co home for 31 years. She is splitting time working remotely from there and from the Fort Collins office. Their family and ministry roots began with serving 4 summers each at Rainbow Trail, where they've had a long and deeply involved history. Howard works as a middle school math teacher and coach in Monument.They have 3 young adult children, Ben and Noah (also educators and coaches in SoCo) and Eden (a grad student in Chicago.) Rounding out the Bonser clan are their 2 dogs-Onyx and Koda and their 21 year old cat-Chandler Bing. A few favorite things- beaches, hiking, bougie coffee, traveling the world and bingeing "Friends" or "Gilmore Girls."

"My call as a Deacon in the ELCA has always centered on walking alongside God’s people, helping them discover their gifts, and nurturing communities where all belong and are empowered to serve. I am passionate about helping people discover their missional heartbeats and connecting them to opportunities for generosity. This new role seems to be the Spirit stirring up all those elements and creating an open door to serve with this awesome year round team and Board and help write a new chapter for the Sky Ranch community."- Missie

We are excited to move into this next season of learning and growth as Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp. Additional details regarding the transition, year-round staff restructure, and search for a permanent Executive Director will be forthcoming.

- Sky Ranch Board of Directors

Executive Director Transition

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 21:12:21 GMT

Message from the Sky Ranch Board of Directors

Dear Sky Ranch Community,

We write today to share that Lori Bode has resigned as Executive Director of Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp, expressing that after much reflection and prayer, she has discerned it is time for Sky Ranch to be led into its next season by someone with different gifts.

Lori noted that serving this ministry has been one of the great honors of my life and she expressed deep gratitude for the trust, partnership, and shared mission that shaped her time at Sky Ranch. She highlighted the meaningful work accomplished during her tenure, including strengthening the physical and operational foundations of the camp, completing the Pavilion, expanding staff leadership, and continuing the journey as a Reconciling in Christ organization.

Most importantly, Lori shared how profoundly she valued the community of radical hospitality at Sky Ranch and the transformational moments experienced by campers and guests in this sacred community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Lori for her leadership and care for this ministry. We ask the Sky Ranch community to join us in praying for Lori and her family as they enter into new adventures, as well as Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp.

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to Liz Huffman, Board President, at izzie@huffman.com

In peace and gratitude,

Sky Ranch Board of Directors

2025 Newsletter

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 19:45:01 GMT

Exciting News: The 2025 Fall Newsletter is Here!

We are thrilled to announce the release of our 2025 Newsletter ! Packed with exciting updates, highlights, and upcoming events, this edition is a must-read for everyone interested in staying connected and informed .

2024 Newsletter

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 19:32:30 GMT

Exciting News: The 2024 Newsletter is Here! ��

We are thrilled to announce the release of our 2024 Newsletter ! Packed with exciting updates, highlights, and upcoming events, this edition is a must-read for everyone interested in staying connected and informed.

2023 Annual Report

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 16:14:37 GMT

It's that time of year again, time for the annual meeting!

Linked below are the documents for the meeting. If you have any questions, please send an email to info@skyranchcolorado.org. We get back to you as soon as possible to address your questions. We are excited to be meeting in person once again and hope we will see you there.

2023 Fall Newsletter

Sat, 17 Feb 2024 03:37:53 GMT

2023 Fall Fence Post Newsletter

The newsletter is now available for you to enjoy reading! We can't wait for you to dive into the newsletter and catch up on all the latest news and updates! From new projects to upcoming events, there's so much to explore and be excited about.

Pavilion Project - Construction + Updates + Progress Photos

jeff@skyranchcolorado.org (Jeff Fairfax) — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:26:46 GMT

Pavilion Project - Completed in December of 2023

Timberline Builder's Project Completion Video:

https://fb.watch/qZX3UvLWKH/

Bekah's Ordination

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:38:29 GMT

Introducing Your Program Director: PASTOR Bekah

On November 17, 2023, Rebekah Swygert Boatwright was recognized as a called and ordained minister of word and sacrament within the church of Christ. Pastor Bekah was officially ordained at Bethel Lutheran Church in Windsor, CO, and has been appointed by the Rocky Mountain Synod Council to engage in ministry at Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp. Rejoice with us, God is good.

Welcome Tyler Stewardson!

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:28:53 GMT

Meet Sky Ranch's High School Program Director!

Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp is excited to introduce our High School Program Director: Tyler Stewardson.

Tyler is from Logan, UT. He grew up as a Lutheran in Cache Valley and attended Luther Heights Bible Camp each summer up in the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho. Tyler says, “I owe so much to the ELCA Lutheran Church for guiding me, supporting me, and being a proactive light in my life.” During Tyler’s college summers, he returned to work at Luther Heights Bible Camp as a Counselor, Backpacking Guide and Assistant Program Director. In 2019, Tyler graduated from Utah State University in Outdoor Product Design and Development and spent the last few years honing his skills in the outdoor gear world as a product designer, developer, and product line manager. By the end of 2022, Tyler was missing “the joy of outdoor ministry and the camp world”. He returned to outdoor ministry as the Director of Camp Operations at Camp Lutherwood Oregon. He knew he had “made the right decision to dive back into the camp world” where he “felt alive again.” Tyler has a passion for the outdoors and leading high adventure programming. Like our Program Director, Bekah, he loves to share his musical gifts playing guitar, he enjoys recognizing the strengths of counselors and encouraging them to grow in their skills. We look forward to welcoming Tyler to Colorado and into our special family here at Sky Ranch.

Tyler shares: “Having been a Counselor, Backpacking Guide, and Assistant Program Director, I heavily valued being able to help young adults walk in their faith. I have been a positive role model for many, and it is so enjoyable to see those campers now growing up and becoming leaders in their home congregations. That feeling has always been one of the major cornerstones for my love of outdoor ministry.”

Cole Hemmah Farewell!

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:18:02 GMT

Peace to the People...

Dear Friends and Family of Sky Ranch,

It is with mixed emotions that I share the news that Cole Hemmah is leaving Sky Ranch Lutheran camp, this fall. While we are sad because it is hard for us to imagine life around here without Cole on our team, we are excited for the new opportunities he has, and we know his gifts will be a blessing to others. Cole’s fiancé, Katie Jo (former Sky Ranch counselor), has accepted a position as the Farm to School Program Director for a county in New York. Consequently, they will be moving over the next couple of months. We share Cole’s excitement and support for Katie Jo. Our staff have witnessed how hard she has worked towards achieving a job in the vocation she is passionate about. Congratulations to Katie Jo!

Cole worked multiple summers for Sky Ranch as a Counselor, Offsite Guide and Offsite Coordinator. In March of 2020, Cole joined the year-round team as our High School Program Director. Cole has a fun-loving, playful, calming, and gentle spirit. He is well-respected by those who know him. Cole’s outdoor recreation, environmental education, training, and management skills have been incredible assets to the success of this ministry. However, I believe his greatest asset has been the many relationships he has cultivated over the years. After all, as I often say, camp ministry is one where the power of community is strengthened by the relationships that are formed.

As Cole prepares to say goodbye as an employee of Sky Ranch, he shares the following reflection:

“Working at Sky Ranch as a seasonal and year-round staff has been the most formative experience of my life. I have met the closest people to me personally, established a solid foundation in my faith, and overall, I have grown immensely in my professional and personal life. Sky Ranch was supposed to be a small piece of my summers during college and has turned into a center point for so many things in the last 9 years of my life. Thank you to all the summer staff I got to work with from 2015 to 2023, thank you for the support I have received from organizational partners, supporters of camp, my coworkers, friends, and family. I have high hopes for the future of Sky Ranch and the awesome staff who join us on the mountains each year and I already am looking forward to when I can visit camp again in whatever way comes next.”

I know I am not alone in my appreciation for everything Cole has done for Sky Ranch. He has touched the lives of many. Cole, Katie Jo, and their two dogs, Starla and Oliver, will be missed immensely. However, Cole knows that he will forever be a part of our Sky Ranch family. May God continue to bless Cole and Katie Jo. Please join me in prayer…

Loving creator,

As we say farewell to Cole, we entrust him to your care. We pray for happiness and joy to be ahead of him, for wisdom and guidance to be beside him, and for grace and truth to be behind him, pushing him onwards into your goodness. We know that you will always love and protect him and continue to use his gifts for your service.

Amen

Lori B. Bode (she, her, hers)

Sky Ranch Executive Director

Sky Ranch Fence Post - 2023 Fall Newsletter

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 21:56:22 GMT

Breaking News:

Sky Ranch's Fence Post Publication of 2023 Fall Newsletter is available for YOU!

We are thrilled to share with you all the exciting things happening at Sky Ranch and what lies ahead for the upcoming season! Click the link below to download your digital copy today! If you are interested in receiving a physical copy, please contact our office and request your copy.

Welcome Ingrid Johnson!

jeff@skyranchcolorado.org (Jeff Fairfax) — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 18:50:48 GMT

Sky Ranch Welcomes New Office Manager!

Welcome, Ingrid Johnson!

Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp is thrilled to announce Ingrid Johnson as our next Office Manager.

Ingrid is from Columbia, SC. She is a psychology graduate of Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC. Before serving as the Summer Registrar for Sky Ranch this year, Ingrid worked previously at a camp outside of Asheville, NC. She served as a counselor and senior staff member for several summers before working on their year-round staff as a Guest Services Intern. Ingrid comes with a multitude of experience in outdoor ministry, including the registration process. She shares a passion for and dedication to how camp impacts the lives of youth and adults. We are excited to welcome and support Ingrid in this new role with Sky Ranch.

Ingrid shares: “Camp has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’ve spent summers first as a family camper, then as a camp kid while my mom served as the camp nurse, followed by many summers as a camper until finally serving on staff as a counselor and leadership staff member. Upon graduation from Winthrop University, I got to spend more than just my summers at camp as I joined the year-round staff serving on guest services.

I have been serving on Sky Ranch staff since May as the summer registrar. One of the joys I had in this role was watching the faces of the campers as they got out of the car to spend a week with the amazing staff I worked with. As I saw campers meeting their counselor and cabin mates, I’m reminded of those moments in my own life where camp has brought me joy, the fun I’ve had and the friendships I’ve created. Camp has the power to change everything! I’ve seen how camp changes children’s lives. The relationships they form and develop, with the children around them and with God, are beautiful. God is at work in them; I see it every day.

Camp has been foundational in my faith journey and relationship with Christ. I’m excited for the ways in which I will grow in and with the Sky Ranch community.”

Ally Mertz Farewell!

Ally@skyranchcolorado.org (Ally Mertz) — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 21:55:48 GMT

It's hard to say goodbye...

Dear Friends and Family of Sky Ranch,

It is bittersweet that I share the news that Ally Plucheck Mertz is leaving Sky Ranch Lutheran camp, effective September 30th. After almost 14 years in our work/ministry family, she has decided to spend more time with her actual family and pursue a new direction in her vocation.

Ally began working for Sky Ranch as the summer cook in May of 2009. She returned as the cook for the summers of 2010-2012. She was responsible for ensuring many of our campers and guests were well fed and cared for in more ways than just nutritional nourishment! In 2011, Ally was able to share her gifts of hospitality as the Fall Host. Because of the High Park fire in 2012, she worked in the Fort Collins office for half of the summer helping with registration and office duties. In fall of 2012, she helped in the office as support staff and began her role as our Office Manager on January 1, 2013. She has managed a great deal in this role over the past (almost) 10 years. Ally’s office management skills and institutional knowledge have been incredible assets to the success of this ministry. However, I believe her greatest asset has been the many relationships she has built over the years. After all, camp ministry is one where the power of community is strengthened by the relationships that are formed.

As Ally prepares to say goodbye as an employee of Sky Ranch, she shares the following reflection:

“Sky Ranch holds a very special place in my heart. As I reflect

over the past 14 summers, I have a lot to be grateful for. I am grateful to be a part of this supportive community and appreciate the love that comes from it. I am grateful for the life skills that I have learned over the years, although some things will be more useful than others. I am grateful for the friendships that I have because of camp. But most of all, I am grateful for the power of Sky Ranch and how it is such a special place for so many. One of the biggest joys of my job is getting to hear how this place has changed lives and will continue to do so. I can’t wait to share this place with my daughter, again!”

I know I am not alone in my appreciation for everything Ally has done for Sky Ranch. She has touched the lives of many. And although my time in knowing Ally has been shorter than most, like everyone she meets, she welcomed me into the Sky Ranch community immediately. Ally and her family will certainly be missed on a day-to-day basis. However, she knows that she will forever be a part of the amazing family of Sky Ranch. May God continue to bless Ally, Matt, and Quinn. Please join me in prayer…

Loving creator,

As we say farewell to Ally, we entrust her to your care. We pray for happiness and joy to be ahead of her, for wisdom and guidance to be beside her, and for grace and truth to be behind her, pushing her onwards into your goodness. We know that you will always love and protect her and continue to use her gifts to your service.

Amen

Lori B. Bode (she, her, hers)

Sky Ranch Executive Director

Covid Protocol & Policy Update 5-23-22

Ally@skyranchcolorado.org (Ally Mertz) — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 15:51:42 GMT

Covid-19 Update!

Over the past 50+ years, our priority has been the safety of our guests, volunteers, campers and staff. Although the Coronavirus has turned much of our world upside down, one thing that hasn’t changed is our focus on safety. As the level of our community health changes, we will continue to evaluate best practices and policies to ensure a safe, fun and faith filled summer. Click here to stay up to date on our CO VID-19 protocol s for summer 2022.

Executive Director Transition

jeff@skyranchcolorado.org (Jeff Fairfax) — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 21:53:56 GMT

Meet Our New Executive Director!

Welcome Lori Bode!

Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp is excited to announce Lori Bode as our next Executive Director.

Lori comes from Lutheridge, an ELCA Lutheran camp in North Carolina, where she served the past 7 years as a program

director. Lori has many years of experience in human resources and accounting. We welcome Lori’s passion for outdoor ministry, experience managing and supporting staff development, and knowledge of multiple aspects of camp ministry. Sky Ranch is excited to welcome Lori and her family to Colorado and support her during this next chapter in the ministry of Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp.

Lori shares; “I am really excited to be the next Executive Director for Sky Ranch! Outdoor ministry has been an important part of most of my life. From being a camper, counselor, area director and program director, what I love about camp is the impact it makes on one's faith journey and the life skills one gains from being in an intentional Christian community. My husband, Bo, and I met as camp counselors. We have two beautiful children. Our daughter, Madison, is a junior at East Carolina University majoring in Musical Theatre. Our son, Arden, is a junior in high school, and also has a love for choral performance. Our family, along with our dog Raven (and Madison's two cats), are all excited for our move from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Rocky Mountains. I look forward to joining the family of Sky Ranch and continuing to tell the story of how camp changes lives.”

Sky Ranch - COVID-19 Updates

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 17:49:44 GMT

Sky Ranch has received a variance from Larimer County and will be able to open its campground and cabins to Individual family households beginning August 9. Ple ase read full update below with more information.

**Campground and Cabin Update**

Family and Community Survey:

We would like to understand how we can best support your family and congregation during this unique period of social distancing, knowing that camp may look very different this summer. Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey in order to help us better understand how Sky Ranch can continue to serve our community.

Survey can be found here: https://forms.gle/8KzgvQT7XqjZuKBR9

- June 9, 2020 - Click Here

- May 6, 2020 - Click Here

- May 5, 2020 - #GivingTuesdayNow!

- April 29, 2020 - Closure of Sky Ranch Property

- April 15, 2020 - Click Here

- March 25, 2020 - Click Here

- March 18, 2020 - Click Here

Resources:

Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

World Health Organization www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public

Colorado Department of Public Health https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/2019-novel-coronavirus

Summer + Fall 2021 Updates

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:57:37 GMT

Sky Ranch is blessed to be in a position to offer summer camp, weekend retreats, and Fall programming this year! Continued thanks to all who worked tirelessly to protect our beloved camp from the Cameron Peak Fire and those in healthcare who have ensured we are well informed and ready with protocols to Facilitate a safe encounter with Christ on the Mountaintops!

Our top priority at Sky Ranch is the safety and well being of all who join us this summer. Due to the geographic diversity of our campers and guests these policies are based on guidance from local health officials and may vary from your respective community. These policies are in no way a final draft and will continue to be updated based on recommendations from appropriate health agencies and organizations.

2021 Fall Covid-19 Policies - Please Read

2021 Summer Covid-19 Policies and Procedures

Frequently Asked Questions - Covid-19

Cameron Peak Fire Updates

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:57:37 GMT

As of August 14, 2020 - Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp has been evacuated from the property due to the Cameron Peak Fire in the North Poudre Canyon.

For the most current information regarding the Cameron Peak Fire, click on the links below:

InciWeb - https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6964/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CameronPeakFire/

October 24, 2020

Firefighters continue to respond to the Cameron Peak Fire, which began on August 13. The fire is currently 127,398 acres and is 42 percent contained. Windy and dry conditions fueled the fire on Monday, October 5, and the fire crossed a containment line on the north side. In total, at least 95 structures have been destroyed in the fire, including three primary residences.

Winds Tested the Containment Lines yesterday on the Cameron Peak Fire. Most of the containment lines held Monday during the Red Flag wind event. Near Sky Ranch, large air tankers and helicopters worked with firefighters to hold the fire above Comanche Reservoir. Additional resources and personnel have been directed into the area today. While the winds will likely decrease today, fuels remain critically dry and firefighters will continue to experience active fire behavior.

Thank you for your prayers and support! Please continue to pray for all those affected and fighting the fires in Colorado and across the West.

Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp - Covid-19 Updates

Interim Executive Director

Sky Ranch Appoints Interim Executive Director

Executive Director Transition

Message from the Sky Ranch Board of Directors

2025 Newsletter

Exciting News: The 2025 Fall Newsletter is Here!

2024 Newsletter

Exciting News: The 2024 Newsletter is Here! ��

2023 Annual Report

It's that time of year again, time for the annual meeting!

2023 Fall Newsletter

2023 Fall Fence Post Newsletter

Pavilion Project - Construction + Updates + Progress Photos

Pavilion Project - Completed in December of 2023

Timberline Builder's Project Completion Video:

https://fb.watch/qZX3UvLWKH/

Bekah's Ordination

Introducing Your Program Director: PASTOR Bekah

Welcome Tyler Stewardson!

Meet Sky Ranch's High School Program Director!

Cole Hemmah Farewell!

Peace to the People...

Sky Ranch Fence Post - 2023 Fall Newsletter

Breaking News:

Sky Ranch's Fence Post Publication of 2023 Fall Newsletter is available for YOU!

Welcome Ingrid Johnson!

Sky Ranch Welcomes New Office Manager!

﻿

Ally Mertz Farewell!

Covid Protocol & Policy Update 5-23-22

Covid-19 Update!

Executive Director Transition

Meet Our New Executive Director!

Sky Ranch - COVID-19 Updates

Summer + Fall 2021 Updates

Cameron Peak Fire Updates