Some Northern Nevada children will trade screens for saddles this summer as a new ranch camp aims to teach teamwork, discipline, and confidence through rodeo training, outdoor challenges, and mentorship from working cowboys and first responders through a weeklong overnight experience in Minden.
The inaugural session of the Nevada Cowboy Experience is scheduled for July 27 to 31 at the historic P & K Ranch, formerly known as The Stodieck Brothers Ranch. The free nonprofit camp will host 24 boys ages 11 to 14.
Founded by a group of dads and entrepreneurs looking for ways to give back to the community, the camp was created in response to challenges many children face, including excessive device use, bullying, harmful online content, and a lack of motivation and communication skills.
Led by working cowboys, professional rodeo athletes, sheriff and fire department personnel, and local experts, the camp focuses on mentorship, leadership, and practical life skills through outdoor activities and ranch work.
“We're raising a generation that doesn’t know what it’s capable of because no one’s asked them to find out,” camp co-founder Mike Dunn said. “That’s why we built the Nevada Cowboy Experience, to give our youth a place to unplug and discover who they are through real work, real challenges, and real connection because a screen can’t teach grit or show you what you’re made of.”
Camp activities include roping lessons with Nalder Cattle Company, riding instruction from Zephyr Cove Stables, and training sessions led by professional bow hunters and DC Muay Thai. Participants will compete in teams throughout the week, earning points based on teamwork, discipline, and performance before a final championship event on the last day.
Presentations from the Douglas County Sheriff’s SWAT and K9 teams, along with team-building exercises guided by East Fork Fire Protection District personnel, are also part of the program.
Camp co-founder Justin Schlag said the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department and East Fork Fire Department committed active duty personnel to serve as camp counselors and provide professional guidance, safety, and emergency medical services if needed.
Organizers said a pilot camp held last summer helped confirm the program’s mission.
“Watching these kids spend every hour of the day completely unplugged and fully engaged under the guidance of real cowboys and dedicated professionals was extraordinary,” Dunn said. “The transformation was immediate and powerful; their confidence, teamwork, and sense of purpose grew before our eyes.”
The camp is free for participants and funded by local businesses and families. Organizers said a percentage of participants are selected based on difficult living or financial situations. Board members receive no compensation, and all donations go directly toward camp operations and youth development.
“It’s super cool to be involved in the camp,” said Nick Nalder, co-founder and owner of Nalder Cattle Company. “Most kids don’t get opportunities like this, and after the pilot camp, several asked their parents if they could come help me work the ranches throughout the year, and want to pursue a career in ranching.”
Camp organizers said they hope to eventually expand the program across Northern Nevada and create opportunities for young girls in future sessions.
For information about applications or donations, visit NevadaCowboyExperience.com.
The Nevada Cowboy Experience, founded and operated in Douglas County,
Nevada, is a transformative kids’ camp that celebrates the rich traditions of the cowboy lifestyle while fostering life skills, character, and community.
The Nevada Cowboy Experience is an overnight camp for boys who are ready to earn their spurs. Campers ride horses, throw ropes, and live ranch life — alongside archery, martial arts, crafts, and outdoor adventure.
Led by real cowboys, rodeo athletes, and first responders, NCE isn’t just a camp. It’s a rite of passage. Boys leave with new skills, lifelong friendships, and the kind of lessons that stick long after the boots come off.
The Nevada Cowboy Experience isn’t just a camp — it’s a movement. We’re keeping cowboy traditions alive while forging our next generation of leaders. Your support puts your brand where it matters: in the dirt, on the ranch, and in the lives of boys who will carry these lessons forever.
Nevada Cowboy Experience is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
For sponsorship or if your kids is interested in the camp
www.nevadacowboyexperience.com
Mike Dunn 775.901.6633
