Bates Bar J Ranch is a year-round working ranch and riding camp located in the foothills of the Rockies, 64KM Northwest of Calgary, Alberta.

The aims of the camp are to promote good fellowship, appreciation of outdoor beauty, wildlife and domestic animals and to strengthen high standards in moral character. Young people should develop new skills, make new friends, improve character, assimilate the beauty of mountains, hills, streams, wildlife and woodland, all the while having good fun.

2009 is our 48th camping season and we look forward to welcoming our new and returning campers.

Covering 3000 acres, the ranch is nestled in a beautiful valley where Grease Creek flows into the Little Red Deer River.

The ranch has registered Paints, Percherons and Quarter horses as well as the usual farm pets plus a resident herd of not so wild mule deer.

The ranch is tucked into the foothills away from public roads and traffic. You can hike or ride for miles through the open valleys, ford rivers, climb hills, and stop at pure fresh springs for a refreshing drink.

The lodge has a modern kitchen, dining room, two large sitting rooms, one with a stone fireplace. Bedrooms and dormitories can accommodate approximately 80 guests. A balcony across the front of the lodge overlooks the river.

We have added a 2000 square ft. recreation center near the lodge. This is ideal for group activities, dances, games and band practices, etc., etc.

We wish to meet and enjoy people who love the beauties of the natural outdoors and who cherish wholesome ideals and standards.