Sioux YMCA Trekker Trip

In 2018, Camp Chief Ouray hosted our first trip to the Sioux YMCA’s overnight camp, Camp Marrowbone in Eagle Butte, SD. The Sioux YMCA, located on the Cheyenne River Reservation, works with community members to establish sustainable programs and impact change. They empower young people, engaging in academic, athletic and artistic programming. The Sioux Y serves the youth of the reservation on-site, in the Tribal schools, in the community and through Camp Marrowbone.

We are so excited to offer our Sioux YMCA Trekker trip again in summer 2022 for campers ages 14-17! On the drive to the Sioux YMCA, the group will make a few stops for day hikes and camping in National Parks across Wyoming and South Dakota. Upon arrival in South Dakota, campers will spend four days fully immersed at the Sioux YMCA’s Camp Marrowbone. Here, campers will learn about the organization’s mission, vision and history. During this powerful cultural exchange experience, participants will also assist with hands-on volunteer projects. 

“The trip was amazing. I went into it expecting two weeks of service and community building, and I got that and so much more. I wasn't expecting to make such deep friendships along the way, and I certainly didn't know how beautiful the sights would be in that part of South Dakota. When I do the Most Beautiful Thing devo, I usually say Camp Marrowbone in the morning!”

- Eliza Tutty, 2018 Sioux Y Trekker Trip participant 

She also shared that she thinks “other people should experience this for a few reasons. Firstly, because getting out into the world with a group of people other than your family makes you see things differently. It gives you freedom to perceive things without their bias. Also, I just think that the best feelings in the world are being with great people and spending your time helping others. This trip did both for me, and I'm sure it can for other people as well.”

Learn more about Camp Marrowbone. 
Learn more about the Sioux YMCA.

Trip Details:

Dates: July 10 – July 23, 2022 (Sessions 5-6)
Cost: $1,120/camper
Ages: 14-17 year old
Capacity: 10 campers (need minimum of six to run, two CCO Trip Leaders will accompany the group)

In addition, Camp Chief Ouray staff can provide letters for participants to show proof of community service.

Please contact Kelvina Doss, Leadership and Trips Director, with any questions, kdoss@ymcarockies.org / 970-887.2648 x 1905. 

Learn more and register for the Sioux YMCA Trekker Trip.