The campsite will be used for Camp El Ranchito and year-round nature-immersion programming for community groups. It is available by reservation for nonprofits and mission-aligned businesses.
The Shield Ranch headquarters is located at 9433 Bee Caves Road, Austin, with 131 acres owned and operated by the nonprofit Shield Ranch Foundation.
The new 14-acre Campsite at Shield Ranch has an open-air pavilion, 11 screened shelters and an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant trail.
According to a press release, the campsite’s shelters can sleep up to 74 guests on cots and provide storage for camp gear. The pavilion seats 96 guests within a large gathering space. There is also a commercial kitchen, restrooms and office space. Both the shelters and pavilion offer moveable panels that can be closed during storms or cooler weather.
“The campsite demonstrates our commitment to share more broadly with our community in ways that will serve groups while protecting the land for future generations,” Andrea Mellard, executive director of the Shield Ranch Foundation, said in the press release. “In a rapidly urbanizing region, it’s increasingly important to provide outdoor experiences to promote health, connection and moments of wonder.” 512-476-4816. www.shieldranch.com
