Stan Oken
“The greatest measure of success in one’s life is how many other lives were made better because they lived.”
— Stan “Coach” Oken
Our Founder’s Legacy: Stan “Coach” Oken
River Way Ranch Camp’s founder, Stan “Coach” Oken, believed every child deserves a “win.” When he founded River Way Ranch Camp in 1967, he envisioned a summer camp where children could discover their strengths, build confidence, and feel proud of who they were.
Small for his age growing up, Stan found confidence through sports, teamwork, and a community that encouraged him. Those experiences shaped his life as an educator, coach, and mentor. At River Way, he wanted every camper to experience success, whether learning a new skill, finding the courage to try an unfamiliar activity, or making a new friend. Watching children grow in self-esteem was one of his greatest joys.
The Oken family has owned and operated River Way Ranch Camp since its founding, and we proudly carry on Coach’s legacy. With over 200 years of combined experience, our family and dedicated year-round staff devote each year to planning a fun, supportive, and educational overnight summer camp experience here in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills.
River Way has twice received the California Family Business Award and has been featured on the “Today” show. The purpose behind our work remains deeply personal: to give every child the opportunity to return home with greater confidence and a win of their own.