Thanksgiving at CRISTA Camps: Celebrating Gratitude and Fellowship

November 27th, 2024

CRISTA Camps Blog 2024 Thanksgiving Hero Image

Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday at Miracle Ranch in Port Orchard, Washington. It's a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the blessings of life in a close-knit, faith-filled community. Enjoying the scenic beauty of Horseshoe Lake and the surrounding trees, Miracle Ranch offers the perfect setting to come together and give thanks. Families and individuals gather at the camp each year to embrace the spirit of gratitude through unique events, time-honored traditions, and meaningful fellowship.  

Thanksgiving at Miracle Ranch  

Celebrating Thanksgiving at Miracle Ranch provides a unique experience for guests. Whether booking an adult retreat with friends or coworkers or bringing your family after Thanksgiving to celebrate at Christmas Fest, your time will be filled with opportunities to connect, celebrate, and enjoy the outdoors. Guests can participate in festive gatherings highlighting the importance of gratitude and unity. It's a time to reflect on the past year's blessings and express gratitude for the relationships that God has blessed us with.  

A stay at Miracle Ranch could include making new Thanksgiving traditions like a post-meal Thanksgiving hike, where families can explore the beautiful trails of Miracle Ranch while burning off all the turkey and gravy! Walking through the crisp autumn air, surrounded by towering evergreens and lakeside views, it's easy to find a moment of quiet reflection and gratitude for the beauty of God's creation. You could also make a new tradition of braving the cold water of Horseshoe Lake and going out on the canoes. You can participate in many activities to create a new Thanksgiving tradition.   

Building Community and Fellowship  

Thanksgiving at CRISTA Camps isn't just about the meals or events; it's about the people. Guests are welcomed into a warm, supportive environment where lasting friendships are formed. Whether you're sitting around a cozy campfire sharing stories or sharing a meal with each other in the dining hall, every interaction is an opportunity to build deeper connections. 

For many, Miracle Ranch is a place to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Through games, group activities, and shared moments of prayer, the camp fosters an atmosphere of fellowship that keeps guests returning year after year. The opportunity to fellowship and spend time together over the holidays is often taken for granted. We hope that time at Miracle Ranch will allow you to prioritize fellowship with family and friends.   

Enjoying The Holidays on Horseback  

This Thanksgiving season also brings exciting news for horse lovers! Miracle Ranch is offering new dates for trail rides, running from December 12-14, 12-16, and 12-17. These trail ride experiences allow participants to spend time with Miracle Ranch's gentle horses, ride through our wooded trails, and warm up with a cup of hot chocolate afterward! It's another unique opportunity to give thanks to God for His creation and the special bond between humans and animals.  

The minimum age for a trail ride is 8 years, and the weight limit is 210 pounds. Please wear long pants and closed-toed shoes and warm clothes or a waterproof jacket if the weather requires it. Helmets are provided, but individuals are welcome to bring their own ASTM-certified riding helmets.  

Whether you're an experienced rider or new to the saddle, these trail rides offer a nurturing environment where riders of all skill levels can grow and thrive. The camp's skilled instructors ensure that everyone feels supported, making this Thanksgiving experience unforgettable.  

Giving Thanks in Nature  

At Miracle Ranch, Thanksgiving is also about taking a step back from the busyness of life and immersing yourself in God's creation. The tranquil setting invites reflection and prayer, allowing guests to connect with their faith in a meaningful way. As families gather for worship services and group devotions, the camp becomes a place to express gratitude for God's provision and the community He has blessed us with.  

This Thanksgiving, CRISTA Camps invites you to celebrate the season of gratitude in a beautiful, natural setting where community and faith come together. Whether through shared meals, fellowship, or simply enjoying the outdoors, there's no better place to give thanks. Join us at Miracle Ranch for a Thanksgiving experience that will leave you feeling renewed and grateful.