How the West was One

Back in 1983, Kanakuk decided that it was time to add another kamp to it's growing family. With K1 established and enjoying summer ministry since the mid twenties, and K2 beginning in 1978 for teenagers, it was only natural to build something for our middle schoolers that would sweep them off their feet. Bring on some Cowboys (and some Covered Wagons new for 2011).

Breaking a bit from tradition, our Western Style kamp complete with ranch style bunkhouses (and in-cabin restrooms) made it easy for new kampers to enjoy the Kanakuk experience with their boots and cowboy hats. After electing Cecil Eager as the Kwest Sheriff, instead of Cherokees and Choctaws warring in competition, it was now the Wranglers and Rangers, two cowboy outfits that battled more fiercely than Texas and OU on game day of the Cotton Bowl.

If you have never been to Kwest, there are few things you should know. Ask anyone who has been there and they will tell you one thing: it feels like you're with one big family. With the setting of an ol' style Western town as a back drop, you can't help but feel like you're with friends and neighbors whether you stop by our office (the Western Union) or drop in the Dining Hall (our Goodnight Chuckwagon). Everyone is friendly and everyone is smiling.

Like an old time hand water pump that sends never ending fresh water to the bucket, there seems to be a non-stop well of encouragement and smiles. Friendly would be an understatement for sure when you think about our staff and team that make the place go. That's why year after year, our kampers will tell you that Kwest was their favorite.

It's hard to beat a place where you feel like your with family and things are so fun. Everyone needs encouragement and an uplifting smile, especially in those turbulent middle school years where things can get dramatic.

For over 25 years now Kwest has specialized in making our kampers feel like Junior High can be the greatest time of life. This summer we will swing open the gates, grab our hats and boots, and prepare to have more fun and excitement than the Oklahoma Land Rush! Grab your horse and get here fast...we can't wait to have some fun.

Good weather, Good eats, and Good fun!

Kwest staff and kampers couldn't make it without the chuckwagon.

There is nothing better than seeing a meal at your table that feels almost like a home cooked meal. Jenica (our head kitchen manager) and her team have plenty of experience, expertise, and enthusiasm to help make every meal feel and taste like the best one you have ever had the privilege of eating.

We were up and running on our first full day today. The sky was blue, the temperature was perfect, and everyone was enjoying a break from school and a wonderful introduction into summer. Sometimes I wonder if 1st term might just be our best one. Everyone is so excited to be out of school and start having summer fun. Like I said, we are off and running incredible well.

Tonight was opening night at the Tribal Ring and our Chiefs and Princesses did an awesome job leading their tribes in cheers, competition, and taking part in our ceremonies. We had a spectacular backdrop of lighting in the far distance that made the night almost magical. It was really a special one.

We can't wait for tomorrow. It's so good to be rollin.

Ward