Meet the Founder:

Stan Oken, Coach

As an educator and continued owner of River Way Ranch Camp, Coach, has devoted his life to ensuring every child experiences all that summer camp has to offer. The Oken family has owned and operated River Way Ranch Camp since 1967. With over 100 years combined experience, the Oken family continues to provide a stable, fun, and educational summer adventure for children. Recipient of the California Family Business Award in 2001 and 2008, River Way has also been featured on the “Today” show. The Oken family, along with year-round staff, devotes the entire year to the planning and organizing of the upcoming summer.

Meet the Directors:

Nancy Oken, Munchkin

Vice President of Camping

With experience as a high school educator and coach, Munchkin is one of the three siblings managing the Oken family business. Since 1985, Munchkin’s expertise and guidance has helped make River Way the family it is today.
[Photo: Stan with daughter Nancy Oken]

Jerry Reid, Mahoney

Camp Director

Mahoney came to River Way in 2007 with decades of experience as a former Parks & Recreation Director and past member of the State Board of Directors for California Park and Recreation Society (CPRS). A BS in Recreation Administration and a Master’s in Public Administration ensure River Way is successful year round. Mahoney’s abilities as a Certified Lifeguard Instructor, Ropes Course Facilitator, Class B driver, make him an excellent manager for River Way’s staff. But it is his hands on approach and ease with our campers that make him a natural Camp Director.

Phil Slaton, Mr. Phil

Associate Camp Director

With decades of education and camp experience, Mr. Phil is the glue that holds the River Way family together. Since 1999, staff and campers alike, credit Mr. Phil with enhancing their camp experience. As he oversees the daily operations, Mr. Phil is never too busy to give a smile, a pep talk, or advice.

Veronica Molina, Tootsie

Tootsie has been with us since 2005. She has had many different hats in camp including General Counselor, Ranchero Girls Division Leader, C.I.T. Director and Assistant Camp Director. Tootsie has come to us with a background in education where she spent time in the classroom and in non profit programming. Recently she worked in youth development and coordinated an After School Program at the High School Level.

Office Team