About this Nominee
Founded in 1999 by the Barr family, Candlelight Ranch began as a vision to share the peace and magic of nature with children who might otherwise never experience it. What started as a family retreat soon became a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to opening the outdoors to children and families of all abilities and backgrounds.
Today, Candlelight Ranch provides transformative, nature-based programs through four core pillars:
Children in Nature – outdoor science, adventure, and conservation activities that build curiosity and respect for the natural world.
Families in Nature – intentional family experiences that strengthen bonds, encourage quality time, and foster healing.
Military Families in Nature – specialized programs that provide connection, respite, and support for military children and caregivers.
Outdoor Explorers – recreation therapy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, designed to build confidence, independence, and joy in the outdoors.
Nestled on 41 acres along the north shore of Lake Travis, Candlelight Ranch offers a safe and accessible environment where participants can climb an adaptive rock wall, soar across all-accessible zip lines, kayak in a private cove, bond with horses, or simply sit in stillness surrounded by nature. For many, it is their first time hiking a trail, catching a fish, or looking up to see a sky full of stars.
In 2024, more than 1,700 children and caregivers experienced the Ranch through partnerships with over 40 Central Texas nonprofits and schools, immersing themselves in day, overnight, and weekend programs that blend outdoor adventure with environmental education, therapy, and healing. These experiences create lasting impacts—helping children build resilience, confidence, and belonging, while fostering stronger family connections and a deeper respect for the environment.
From a humble dream of the Barr family to connect children with nature, Candlelight Ranch has grown into a community cornerstone—ensuring that children of every ability and background have the chance to experience their “best day ever” in nature.