Testimonials

I loved everything! The people were amazing, the hikes we did were breathtaking and we had so much fun!  I learned a lot about myself, how to be free in the wilderness and forget about all obligations except for a day in the woods. I can't wait to see you guys next year!
– "Calamari," age 15

The excellent communication from the CYP staff before and during Jack's camp session was very meaningful and reassuring.  Jack has a tremendous experience - thanks!
– parent of 12-year-old camper "Astro"

It was a great experience! We really shopped around for the right feel for a camp. We absolutely made the right choice! Thanks!
– parent of 12-year-old camper "Mustang"

What I liked best? Everything! I guess especially hiking, drinking mountain water, swimming, the mountain views and the other campers. I apply things I learned at CYP to cross-country and socializing such as not being scared to introduce yourself.  Also I learned a lot of factual stuff about the mountains and roughing it out in the wild.
Columbine– "Applesauce," age 15

Pickle's love of camp has increased every year--especially after the teen backpacking trips. This year he came home very serious about being a junior counselor during the 2007 summer sessions. Thanks for all you do!
parent of 16-year-old camper "Pickle"

CYP has been the best camp my child has attended. The age appropriateness has allowed her to remain interested and challenged for years. The counselors are excellent! CYP is more than just a summer camp--the environmental programs during the school year are wonderful. Thank you all so very much!
– parent of 15-year-old camper

I think CYP has played a big part in helping Butterfly become a happy, healthy adolescent. The good feelings she has about camp carry her through the summer and the whole year! Thanks you guys!
– parent of 16-year-old camper “Butterfly”

CYP has proven to be a positive experience for my daughter as she is willing to take on the adventure of new friends. The CYP kids are good, positive folks. It’s good for her to connect with kids outside of her tight school friends. She has had less time these past two years with her older brother, so being with different ages and a mix of boys and girls is a plus for her. You strike a good balance!
– parent of 12-year-old camper “Woodpecker”

I just wanted to say how beneficial CYP has been for my son. It has enriched his life and built his self-esteem. Prior to CYP, he had no camping experience. As a low-income single mother with health problems and a period of time spent on disability, camping was simply not within my ability to provide. At the same time, I felt strongly that such an experience was important to my son’s development and would build an appreciation for nature. Fortunately, we became aware of the Colorado Youth Program. The tireless and enthusiastic staff goes out of their way to make kids and parents feel welcome. My son quickly grew to love camping despite initial hesitation and has been back multiple summers. He is very proud of the trails he helped build. The first year, he insisted that I drive up to the camp and inspect the improved trail while he explained how and why it was constructed. It was a proud moment for me. Thank you for making it possible!
– parent of 16-year-old camper “Polaris”

I really, really miss CYP and you guys so much! I can’t forget the fun we had at camp. There are no camps like CYP anywhere. All the meals, hikes, games…I can see the sight when I just close my eyes! Sometimes I even dream about camp. I see the Rocky Mountains and everybody from camp, then we all have another fun adventure together. To tell you the truth, after camp I was feeling funny sleeping in my room instead of a tent. Rafting was cold, but super fun–I guess that’s why I couldn’t stop smiling all day. The food was so great and it was worth the long walk to get up the mountain on Alpine Day. It’s almost been a year, but I still hang my award and name tag from the ceiling—that way I can think about camp when I see them.
– “Tiger,” age 13

CYP is such a great organization for kids of all backgrounds. My son had an amazing time at camp and the staff is incredible with children. He learned things, had fun and made friends, both child and adult! My son wouldn’t be able to participate in wonderful programs like this if there were no sliding scale. Thank you!
– parent of 11-year-old camper “Fang”

Just a quick note to say “thank you” for making camp possible for "White Lightning" again this year. I know he and his family really appreciate it. On our way back to Denver, we stopped for a quick lunch before we hit the freeways. We shared a table with a Boulder businessman who asked W. L. what his favorite activities at camp were (he was still wearing his CYP knit cap despite the weather.) His response was that the best activities were: birding, rafting and “yomping.” The momentary look of confusion on the man’s face was priceless. When I gently suggested that yomping might be like hiking, "White Lightning" was adamant: “Yomping is yomping.” I couldn’t argue! It is not an overestimation at all to realize that the camp experience and the mentoring he has received from all of you is making a BIG difference!
– teacher of 13-year-old camper "White Lightning"

I love that the girls were out in nature with wonderful young adult role models, a great community of kids, healthy activities, and an opportunity for independence. We deeply appreciate everything you’ve done for our family and the community at large.
– parent of 3 campers