On the surface, a Christian camp might seem an unlikely place to discover a passion that transcends religious devotion. Yet, for many, these camps offer more than spiritual enlightenment. They serve as a backdrop for personal growth and unexpected discoveries. Such was the case for Julie Miller, a travel writer who found her true devotion not in the chapel, but in the stables of Teen Ranch, a Christian recreational camp on the outskirts of Sydney.
As a teenager, Miller was consumed by a passion for horses, a desire unmet by her parents despite her persistent pleas. Her prayers for a pony went unanswered, leading to a sense of frustration with her faith. However, when an opportunity arose to attend Teen Ranch, a week-long Christian camp, Miller and her friend Kim seized it, hoping to indulge their equestrian dreams under the guise of spiritual retreat.
The Unexpected Sanctuary of Teen Ranch
Located in Cobbitty, Teen Ranch has been a haven for young campers since its establishment in 1961. Modeled after American summer camps, it offers a mix of outdoor activities, including horse riding, canoeing, and archery, all within a framework of evangelical ministry. For Miller and Kim, the camp was a chance to immerse themselves in the world of horses, an opportunity their parents approved of due to its religious affiliations.
The camp’s program, designed to combine physical activity with spiritual teachings, inadvertently fueled the girls’ equestrian passions. Daily riding lessons, trail rides, and horse care tasks became the highlight of their days, overshadowing the religious sermons and Bible studies that punctuated the camp’s schedule.
A Bond Beyond the Saddle
During her time at Teen Ranch, Miller formed a special bond with a pinto gelding named Dandy. Despite his challenging demeanor, she found a kindred spirit in the horse, sharing a mutual preference for leadership and independence. This connection deepened her love for horses, transforming what was once a distant dream into a tangible reality.
Beyond the stables, the camp life offered a sense of belonging and acceptance. The camaraderie among campers, the structured activities, and the shared experiences created a community where Miller’s pony obsession was not only accepted but celebrated. This environment fostered personal growth and a sense of independence, qualities that would shape her future endeavors.
From Camper to Counselor
The impact of Teen Ranch extended beyond Miller’s initial week-long stay. Over the next few years, she returned regularly, her visits evolving from camper to counselor. As a staff member, she embraced new responsibilities, guiding younger campers and contributing to the camp’s operations. This transition marked a period of maturation, where she learned the value of hard work and the importance of mentorship.
Reflecting on her experiences, Miller acknowledges the profound influence Teen Ranch had on her life. The skills and friendships she developed there provided a foundation for her adult life, even as her focus shifted to other pursuits. Yet, the love for horses, kindled during those formative years, remained a constant thread.
A Lifelong Passion Realized
In her 50s, Miller’s childhood dream finally came true. Liberated from the constraints of earlier responsibilities, she acquired her first horse, fulfilling a lifelong aspiration. This achievement, a testament to her enduring passion, brought a sense of closure and gratitude.
“In my liberated, unshackled 50s, my prayers were answered, and I finally, at last, got my first f—ing pony. And for that, dear God, I am eternally grateful.”
Teen Ranch continues to operate, offering school holiday programs that blend adventure with spiritual guidance. For many, like Miller, it remains a place of discovery, where devotion takes on new meanings beyond the confines of traditional faith.
For more information about Teen Ranch, visit teenranch.com.au.
Julie Miller’s story is part of a series exploring cherished holiday destinations. Her journey from camper to horse owner highlights the unexpected paths to fulfillment that such places can offer.
