Ponderosa Youth Ranch
Camping in Sugar Creek
53 Acres of Wilderness Adventure
53 Acres
Beautiful wilderness
10 Spots
Camping sites
Bike Trails
Nature exploration
Group Friendly
Scouts & families
Welcome to the Wilderness
Located just a few miles from Independence in the heart of Sugar Creek, Missouri, J46 Youth Ranch is a not-for-profit trust offering 53 acres of beautiful wilderness for families and groups.
Rent one of our 10 individual camping spots or the large community area with fire pit for primitive camping. Bring your canoes or paddle boats to explore our 2 lakes, and ride the scenic bike trails through the property.
Available for a nominal cost per use, or an annual membership for unlimited access throughout the year.
Outdoor Adventures Await
From primitive camping to water activities, discover the perfect outdoor experience for your group
Primitive Camping
Experience authentic outdoor camping with 10 designated camping spots plus a community fire pit area across 53 acres of pristine wilderness.
Fishing & Boating
Cast your line in our 2 stocked lakes or paddle through calm waters. Canoes and paddle boats welcome — no motorized boats.
Bike Trails
Ride through miles of winding trails designed for cyclists through dense Missouri forest, meadows, and scenic overlooks.
Community Fire Pit
Gather around the large community fire pit area, perfect for group events, storytelling, campfire cooking, and s'mores under the stars.
Register & Reserve Your Spot
Ready to plan your camping trip? Fill out our quick registration form to get pricing information, check availability, and secure your spot at J46 Youth Ranch.
Fill Out the Form
Share your group details, preferred dates, and any questions about the ranch.
We'll Confirm
Our team will reach out within 24 hours to confirm your reservation and provide payment details.
Enjoy the Ranch!
Arrive ready for adventure — primitive camping, fishing, biking, and more await.
Prefer to call? Reach us at 816-695-8445 or email [email protected]
Easy to Find
Address
11700 Park St, Sugar Creek, MO
Entrance next to Mike Onka Park
Location
Just a few miles from Independence
In the heart of Sugar Creek
Ready for Adventure?
Contact us today to reserve your spot or learn more about our facilities
Get in Touch
Perfect For
- Scout Troops
- Church Groups
- Youth Organizations
- Family Campouts
- Educational Programs
- Team Building
Available for nominal cost per use or annual unlimited membership