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Where Healing Happens

A sanctuary where hope is rewritten.

We provide a sanctuary and faith-based support to foster children who have endured unimaginable trauma.

A place where hope is rewritten

Every summer, Lonesome Dove Ranch welcomes children from hard places into a safe, joy-filled environment where healing begins.

Watch our recap video that reflects the heart of our mission: to reverse the effects of trauma through the love of Christ, meaningful relationships, and unforgettable moments. See the transformation that happens when kids are seen, celebrated, and reminded they matter.

17 Years of Healing

The heart of Lonesome Dove Ranch

Lonesome Dove Ranch, nestled on 120 peaceful acres in Royse City, Texas, is a sanctuary for foster children—often the forgotten of society—who have endured unimaginable trauma, sexual abuse, or neglect. For 17 years, our mission, "Where Healing Happens," has guided us in providing a safe, nurturing environment where these children can rediscover joy, build trust, and begin to heal. Through life-changing camps and personalized care, we ensure every child feels valued and loved.

Discover more of our story and meet our founders:

Who We Are
The heart of Lonesome Dove Ranch
Ranch Life

What a week at the ranch looks like

01

Therapeutic Riding

Horses with histories of abuse create powerful bonds, helping children feel values and hopeful.

02

Adventure Activities

From crafts, woodworking, fishing, and jet skiing to horseback riding and water slides, these activities foster joy, confidence, and connection.

03

Custom Birthday Celebrations

Personalized parties remind children they are loved and uniquely special.

04

Training Families

Prepare families for adoption and help place children in secure and loving homes.

05

Spiritual Support

Prayer, worship, and moments like leaving burdens "at the foot of the cross" help foster emotional and spiritual restoration.

06

Community and Care

Licensed counselors, caring volunteers and supportive camp environment ensure safety and love.

Best Days Ever

Camps and programs

Campers at Lonesome Dove Ranch

300–350 children served annually

  • Currently 7 camps per summer
  • No more than 50 children per camp to ensure personalized care

1200–1300 volunteers

  • Adult to child ration of 2-3:1
  • Focused attention and support for each child

Ages served

  • Current kids camps target 6-12 years old
  • Current teen camps target 13-15 years old

100% privately funded

  • Supported entirely by individual donors, local businesses, and churches
  • No government funding

Future vision

  • Plans are underway to create a foster care village for long-term residential care
In Their Words

Letters from the families we serve

"M" has been attending Lonesome Dove Camp from the time she was 6 until now (she is 11). This camp is the highlight of her year every year! She looks forward to coming and counts down the days when we get close! At Lonesome Dove Camp, she feels loved and seen- just like our Heavenly Father loves her and sees her! When it's time to say goodbye, she wants to make sure she goes to all of her newly made friends and counselors to say a very heartfelt goodbye, because it is clear that in just a short time, she has bonded with other kids and her counselors in very big ways! The thing she has always looked forward to the most is the Jet Ski ride! Though this year, she said she actually got to ride the horse, so that's her new favorite! This camp is so therapeutic for "M"; we feel that it teaches her that she is very much loved, seen, and special in God's eyes. We are so thankful for the opportunity to give this experience to her each and every year. We understand what a HUGE commitment it is for all of the volunteers and donors who make this camp possible!! We are just so very thankful.

— "S"

My girls, "Z" & "K", came back from camp sad, and one of them was crying because she did not want it to end. They both shared how special they were treated and how they got to experience their birthdays. They spoke highly about the special tree that fell and how it still survived. They enjoyed the water slide, the bubbles, and especially the pool. Thank you so much to the crew and counselors at the camp who were open-hearted to these special little girls!!! They will always remember this experience for the rest of their lives.

— "C"

The kiddos LOVED camp! This was our youngest's first time, and she couldn't have been any more excited and happier to go. The kiddos really enjoyed the jet skis and making friends. They all have expressed how much they miss their counselors and new friends.

— "A"

We are completely blown away after our daughter's first experience at Lonesome Dove Ranch. The love and kindness poured into her is unlike anything we've ever experienced. She tried activities she's never tried before, she gained valuable perspective from hearing about other kids' stories, and she learned that God's love can conquer any trials we face in life. She returned home with a freshness and lightness, knowing she is not alone and that she is loved. I feel that our entire family benefited even though she's the one who physically went to camp. I simply don't know how to thank everyone enough. This is a life-changing ministry, and we will be proud to help support it financially, knowing the difference it makes. Thank you!

— "S"

This camp is the highlight of my children's summer. Every aspect of the camp is thoroughly thought out and designed specifically for each camper, down to the very details. The cherry on top is the photo album that my kids come home with every year, with the stories that they tell me about friends they made, experiences they had, and memories that they will cherish forever. I also have to say that my husband and I are able to reconnect and use this time for some well-needed rest. There's nothing more important than knowing your children are safe, having fun, and growing closer to God, which allows us to focus on self-care. Thank you so much for exceeding our expectations every year.

— "A"

My son went to LDR for the first time this year. He absolutely loved it! It was his first time at sleepaway camp, and the counselors and staff made him feel so comfortable. He told us his favorite part was jet skiing and swimming. He can't wait for next year! Thank you for the communication and the care of our son!

— Parent of a Camper
Explore More Testimonies

Are you a foster parent or a social worker?

If you are a foster parent or social worker and are interested in sending your foster child/children to camp at Lonesome Dove Ranch, please fill out this form. You will receive a notification when new applications become available.

Interest Form