September 15, 2025
Why Free Time Is A Camp Activity
Ben Moss
At Circle F Dude Ranch Camp, we’re all about wide open spaces packed with possibilities. It’s how we’ve built our program, designed our days, and shaped the experience we offer kids on our 500 acre playground. And yes, that includes free time.
In a world where kids’ days are often scheduled down to the minute, giving them the chance to just be isn’t a luxury it’s essential.
Nature Is The Playground
At Circle F, we carve out intentional moments where kids can explore the land, connect with nature, and slow down. Free time might look like playing in the dirt, throwing a ball, or sitting on a log, but it’s packed with purpose. During these moments, kids are tapping into creativity, making choices for themselves, learning time management, getting comfortable with stillness, and discovering what they love to do. Whether they’re stretched out in the shade of a 200 year old oak tree, playing games with friends, or sprawled in the grass with a book, this “unstructured” time is teaching skills that will serve them long after camp ends.
Supervised, Safe, and Structured by Intention
Let’s be clear: free time doesn’t mean chaos. Campers are always supervised, and we have clear boundaries and safe zones in place. Within those boundaries, kids are free to make decisions, explore, and feel a true sense of ownership over their time. Free time isn’t a break from camp it is camp and in that space, some of the most important parts of childhood happen.
