Top 4 Youth Group Activities in New Mexico

New Mexico has tons of youth group activities for those who are searching to mature and learn new skills through the exploration of, and interaction with, the land. Our list ranges from Boy Scouts of America ranches to faith-based wilderness treks, here are the top 4 youth group activities in New Mexico. 

1. Philmont Scout Ranch

Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of the Rocky Mountains in New Mexico, Philmont Scout Ranch is a National High Adventure Base that is also home to the National Scouting Museum and the Seton Memorial Library. The ranch is a working ranch that maintains small herds of cattle and other livestock. 

Philmont treks are not for the faint of heart. If your child is interested in exploring land through backpacking treks or would enjoy seeing the inner workings of what it means to be a rancher make sure they meet all the requirements for signing up. Check out all of the adventures at Philmont Scout Ranch! (Must be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America) 

2. Gorham Scout Ranch

Located in Chimayo, New Mexico, Gorham Scout Ranch is home to 2,650 acres of adventure. The acres of adventure include a 40-foot-tall climbing tower, half-Olympic sized pool, ATV-ing, rocket launching, high ropes course, opportunity to work on First Aid, and—of course—s’mores. The camp is open to boys and girls of all ages.

Although the pandemic is not over yet, Gorham Scout Ranch has not had a single COVID-19 case in all of 2021! If your child is looking for a more immersive experience than staying in a cabin/lodge, Gorham Scout Ranch offers a ‘Webelos Week in the Woods’ (participants must be entering the fourth or fifth grade for this program).

3. Wilderness Trek 

Wilderness Trek is a faith-based outdoor adventure program located in several states, including New Mexico. This experience provides humans of all ages the potential to learn leadership skills, and outdoor skills.

Group and individual trek options are available, and anyone can see the Northern New Mexico area. The individual trips available include College Week, Female Leadership, High school Discipleship, Mother and Daughter, Father and Son, and Student-Athlete. Check out Wilderness Trek for mostly week-long immersive outdoor adventures that are sure to change your life forever.

4. Glorieta Camps

Glorieta Camps is a Christian summer adventure camp operating out of an area near Santa Fe, New Mexico. From school to family retreats and even an opportunity to build your own retreat. Glorieta Camps contain an offering for everyone in your family. It doesn’t end there, for Glorieta Camps even also offers races! The races include Tatonka 5k and 10k runs to the Big Mountain Enduro race.

The staff at Glorieta are trained and passionate about providing a morally, emotionally, and physically sound environment for every camper there. If you and/or your child are looking to challenge the body in order to inspire the mind (a fundamental principle at Glorieta). Then check out the camp for your next summer adventure.

New Mexico River Adventures is your premier whitewater rafting & adventure company. Our daily trips depart to the Rio Grande River and Rio Chama. From family-friendly to exciting adventures, we’re sure to have a trip for everyone. Join us this summer and cool off in the scenic canyons of New Mexico. Happy adventuring, and be sure to stop by New Mexico River Adventures before or after your other adventure!