Camp Rio Blanco Update
Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains Gifts Camp Rio Blanco
to Local Non-Profit to Preserve Outdoor Legacy
The Board of Directors of Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains (GSTOP) is pleased to announce the transfer of Camp Rio Blanco in Crosbyton, Texas, to the non-profit organization Camp Rio Blanco Circle of Friends, Inc. (CRBCOF), effective October 1, 2025. The combined effort to preserve the legacy of Camp Rio Blanco while continuing to provide outdoor experiences to girls in the GSTOP council along with youth throughout the community was a key factor in this decision.
The land for Camp Rio Blanco was originally gifted to the Girl Scouts in 1958 by the Bridwell family of Wichita Falls, as part of the historic Bridwell Ranch. GSTOP has honored this gift for more than six decades through youth outdoor education programs that support its mission of building girls of courage, confidence, and character.
Established in 2018 as a 501(c)(3) organization, CRBCOF is dedicated to preserving and improving Camp Rio Blanco for outdoor experiences. Since its inception, the organization has been a trusted partner to GSTOP, providing ongoing support for camp improvements and enhancements while helping to maintain the site’s legacy as a destination for youth to connect with nature.
Throughout 2025, GSTOP CEO Becky Burton and CRBCOF President Sharon Johnson worked closely to finalize an agreement transferring the camp’s land and buildings to CRBCOF. Under the new arrangement, CRBCOF will assume full ownership and management of the property starting October 1, 2025. GSTOP will continue to have access to rent the camp for council programs, volunteer trainings, and troop camping events.
In a joint statement, Burton and Johnson said:
“We are excited for the new opportunity that Camp Rio Blanco will offer to the youth in the community with the transfer to Camp Rio Blanco Circle of Friends. This group of dedicated volunteers brings the passion, drive, and love for outdoor education needed to ensure the camp’s continued success. Local Girl Scouts will continue to be able to explore and enjoy this wonderful camp through future events and opportunities. We look forward to seeing Camp Rio Blanco thrive for generations to come.”
For more information about Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains, visit www.gs-top.org. To learn more about Camp Rio Blanco and Camp Rio Blanco Circle of Friends, visit www.crbcircleoffriends.org
August 28, 2025
