Why The Nature Place?
The Land
There is a growing body of evidence that indicates that direct exposure to nature is essential for physical and emotional health, and to reduce stress. In Richard Louv’s books, “Last Child in the Woods” and “The Nature Principle" he shows that “The more high-tech we become, the more nature we need.” http://richardlouv.com
The Nature Place is a safe place where you can disconnect in order to re-connect with what is important in your life.
We are situated on 6,000 acres of private land in Colorado, bordering Pike National Forest and the Fossil Beds National Monument in the western foothills of Pikes Peak. Located at an elevation of 8600 feet, The Nature Place lies in a Montane Life Zone, which includes many mountain meadows, aspen groves, open pine forests, small mountain streams, spruce and fir forests, and several stocked fishing ponds. The forests are filled with birds, squirrels, coyotes, hawks, elk, deer and the occasional bobcat.
We hope you choose to tap into the restorative powers of the natural world found at the Nature Place. Come here to boost your mental acuity and creativity; promote health and wellness; build a smarter and more sustainable organization and importantly - to strengthen your human bonds.
The Reputation
In 2011: 76% of our guest decision makers chose The Nature Place for a repeat visit, and 45% of our groups have a 10 to 20+ year history with The Nature Place. Approximately 3000 guests enjoy the facility each year.
The Nature Place continues to build on its reputation for excellence in customer service and world class programs in leadership and team development and natural history exploration — attested to by the number of businesses and organizations who return to The Nature Place year after year. Groups from Compassion International, Turner Construction, Chiropractic Leadership Alliance (CLA), University of Denver, Kent State University, Williams and Smith Colleges, Denver Public Schools, and more have been quick to recognize the value of The Nature Place experience for their groups. Most return because of the outstanding hospitality and staff, quality of meeting rooms, accommodations, food, educational opportunities, overall environment, variety and quality of recreational activities and amenities. See a partial list of our clients.
A long partnership with the University of Denver (DU) starting in 1991 is a cornerstone experience for every student seeking a graduate degree of any variety in the respected Daniels College of Business. Revised in 2010 through a joint effort between DU professors and The Nature Place staff, this program continues to influence future business leaders across the nation.
“The retreat definitely enhanced my personal development, improving my self-confidence levels and my interaction with other people. I will take the skills I gained with me wherever I go in my personal and professional life.” — A University of Denver MBA graduate.
The Nature Place grew out of a boys’ summer camp started in 1948 by Sandy and Laura Sanborn. Expanding into a camp for both boys and girls in 1960, The Sanborns received so many inquiries from adult groups and businesses, that they decided to open The Nature Place, a luxurious “educational camp” for adults, in 1978.
Based on the concept that adults, like children, benefit from time spent in the natural world. The Nature Place was conceived as a center where adults could experience the joys of continuing education and reignite their connections with the natural world. Most of The Nature Place facility was constructed between 1978 and 1980, with several buildings added later. It now hosts executives, organizations of many varieties and families from all over the world.
Reasons to make The Nature Place your choice for a meeting, conference or retreat facility:
The people. A dynamic, hard-working staff who truly live what we do — a staff deeply connected to the land, continuous learning and caring for the people we serve.
The programs. Creative experiential training and outdoor education programs that can be are customized to your needs and/or integrated into your existing education programs that will change perspectives for a better future.
The facility. Comfortable studio apartments with fire places, wonderful home-cooked food and a large array of sports and recreational opportunities.
The details. The Nature Place listens! The staff cares deeply about creating a unique experience for you. Ask — and we will make it happen.
The environment. Through environmental awareness and education, The Nature Place fosters respect for all living and non-living things and promotes ecological stewardship and sustainability. Click here to read more about The Nature Place’s natural benefits.
To plan a retreat, conference or event, please call 719-748-3475 or email