Circle J History

Reverend Reg Goff is credited with originating the name "Circle J." The love of Jesus "J" radiates to the "Circle" which represents the fellowship experienced at Circle J Ranch.

During the 1930s and '40s summer camp had been operated by the Wyoming District of the Methodist Church at Meadowlark Lake in the Big Horn Mountains. It was only usable for a few weeks during the summer and as Forest Service regulations became more complicated, it became desirable to obtain deeded land for a more permanent facility.

In 1953, the Doyle Ranch in the Ten Sleep Canyon was purchased and is the present property for the Circle J. The ranch house was renovated: a kitchen and dining/meeting hall added. Ramsey Hall and Avery Hall were built to house campers and retreat participants. A shower house and R.V. park were added as well. Today, Circle J Ranch has sleeping quarters for 64 persons, has an R.V. park with 16 hookups (no sewer), tenting area, and the dining/meeting lodge and a small cabin.

The first church of Washakie County, built in 1904, was moved to Circle J in 1975 and is a dedicated Wyoming Historical Site. The church is still used for camping and retreat groups as well as weddings and an occasional church service.

Located at the base of the Big Horn Mountains, Circle J has the Ten Sleep Creek running through its woods and meadows, providing excellent trout fishing. The canyon walls afford wonderful hiking opportunities on Circle J's trails or make your own way. Skiing (downhill and cross-country) and snowmobile trails are minutes away from the camp. Geologic wonders, wilderness areas, and archeological findings are all within a short distance of Circle J.

Circle J is located seven miles east of Ten Sleep, Wyoming, and 54 miles west of Buffalo, Wyoming (over the Big Horns on US Hwy 16 known as the Cloud Peak Scenic Byway). Circle J is a non-profit organization.