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Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch Hosts 39th Annual National Wheelchair Sports Camp

Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch in Stewartville, Minnesota, is hosting the 39th Annual National Wheelchair Sports Camp (NWSC) from June 7 to June 12, 2025. This week-long event brings together individuals with physical challenges of all ages to engage in adaptive sports and recreational activities in a supportive and inspiring environment.

A Tradition of Empowerment

Founded by Bob Bardwell, a T12 paraplegic who was injured in a 1973 construction accident, Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch has been a beacon of hope and empowerment since 1976. The NWSC, established by Bardwell, aims to provide a transformative experience for campers, encouraging them to look beyond their disabilities and embrace their abilities. The camp offers a variety of activities, including wheelchair basketball, archery, ziplining, and horseback riding, all designed to challenge participants and foster a sense of community.

Activities and Accommodations

Campers stay in fully accessible, hotel-style rooms at the Miracle Lodge, which includes amenities such as refrigerators and microwaves. All meals are provided, with a salad bar available at lunch and dinner, and snacks provided in the evening. The camp also offers transportation from the Rochester airport and bus station for those in need

A Community of Support

The NWSC is more than just a sports camp; it is a community where individuals can build lasting relationships and find inspiration. Campers are mentored by world-class Paralympic athletes and are encouraged to push beyond their perceived limits. As one camper shared, “This camp has changed me forever! I’ve never experienced a more empowering and encouraging place on earth where all are welcome and invited to shine and thrive in their own element.”

Looking Ahead

As the 39th Annual NWSC unfolds, Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch continues its mission to provide a space where individuals with physical challenges can discover their potential and build a supportive community. The camp stands as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the human spirit.

For more information or to register for future events, visi