Meramec Adventure Ranch

More adventure. More connection. More purpose.

At Meramec Adventure Ranch, we believe adventure is more than just an activity — it’s a catalyst for growth, connection and confidence that lasts a lifetime. If you’ve ever gathered around a campfire with friends, felt the reassuring grip of a hand on a rocky path or basked in pride after a challenging hike, you’ve gotten a glimpse at adventure learning. Now, it’s time to explore more.

Located between St. Louis and Rolla, MO, our 1,200-acre Adventure Base is one of the Midwest’s most extensive outdoor learning environments — and Missouri’s only therapeutic adventure and wilderness program for youth in the state system. Here, every moment is designed to help people discover more in themselves and each other.

Experience growth and connection through customized programs led by our expert staff. Whether you’re booking a day trip, overnight stay or longer lodge or campsite visit, your support helps us provide life-changing programs for at-risk youth and families.

Our expansive setting is ideal for various groups, including:

More Adventure

Get ready for nonstop excitement with activities that challenge, inspire and energize:

The Adventure Barn with rope swings, foam pits, slacklines and more
High-challenge courses including ziplines, rock climbing, rappelling, obstacle courses and wild mud courses
The Adventure Lake with THE BLOB, swings, water ziplines, slides, boats and more
Water sports including canoeing, sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and whitewater rafting
Mountain biking on single tracks and flow tracks
Wilderness skills such as medicine and first aid, land navigation and swift water rescue
Horseback riding on scenic equestrian trails
Archery ranges and 3D courses
Hiking and trail running
Fishing (equipment provided)
Sports fields and courts for football, soccer, volleyball and basketball
Team building outings and much more

Our dedicated team will help you develop an adventure-based learning activities program tailored to the specific goals, needs and abilities of your group.

More Purpose & Confidence

Adventure learning doesn’t just create fun memories — it builds skills that last. With expert guidance from our experienced staff, participants leave Meramec Adventure Ranch with:

Stronger self-confidence
Greater resilience
Teamwork and leadership skills
A deeper sense of belonging and purpose
The knowledge that they are capable of so much more than they imagined

More Connection

Whether you’re here for a day trip, an overnight or a multi-day retreat, Meramec Adventure Ranch offers the perfect setting to unplug from everyday distractions and reconnect — with nature, with your group and with yourself.

Enjoy lodge accommodations for up to 180 guests, or opt for a rustic camping experience under the stars for up to 200 campers. End the day gathered around a bonfire or sharing stories in our council rings.

We welcome groups of as few as 10 participants and offer one-day, weekend and weeklong adventure learning experiences. Click below to book today, or call (573) 775-5513 for more information.

More Than an Adventure — A Mission That Matters

Every adventure at Meramec Adventure Ranch does more than build skills — it fuels hope, healing and lasting change for Missouri’s youth and families.

For over 60 years, KVC Missouri has empowered thousands of young people through transformative experiences like hiking, climbing, horseback riding and wilderness exploration. These aren’t just activities, they’re tools for building confidence, discovering purpose and realizing potential.

Meramec Adventure Ranch is a sanctuary for youth facing trauma, abuse, neglect and mental health challenges— a place where they can feel safe, supported and seen. Here, connection leads to healing and challenge sparks growth.

When your group chooses Meramec Adventure Ranch for a retreat, outing or team-building experience, you’re not just planning a getaway, you’re giving back. You’re creating more opportunities for kids to explore who they are, what they’re capable of and how deeply they matter.

Breaking Barriers & Building Futures

We believe every young person deserves access to life-changing adventure learning— regardless of financial circumstances. As the only program of its kind in Missouri and one of the few nationwide serving youth in the state system, Meramec Adventure Ranch depends on the generosity of donors and people like you to make that possible.

Your participation supports real impact — breaking down barriers and opening doors to more growth, more confidence and more connection for the youth who need it most. A donation of as little as $35 can make a difference to a teen in crisis! Click below to learn more and to make a difference today!

Meet Our Director

Meramec Adventure Ranch Director Brett Bailey

Brett Bailey – Director of Meramec Adventure Ranch

Brett Bailey leads the Therapeutic Adventure and Wilderness arm of KVC Missouri. A former Army Ranger, he served in the infantry and participated in multiple deployments before transitioning into the child welfare field. He holds a bachelor’s degree in social sciences, secondary education and missions studies from Evangel University, as well as a master’s in counseling from Liberty University. With 18 years at KVC, he began his journey as a youth care worker and played a significant role in creating the Meramec Adventure Ranch. Read his full bio here.

Staffing and Accreditations

All activity staff members are trained extensively and regularly to the highest standards, using state-of-the-art equipment, training and techniques. Programming staff also have advanced wilderness first aid training and certifications.