Passing the Torch
What a season! Camp has never been so busy, the weather was magical, our guests and participants absolutely gleeful out there chasing rainbows on the Madison. . . how much better does it get!

We capped off the season with a gang of veterans from the Fort Harrison VA Recreational Program, coming down from Helena in full regalia, poised to venture onto the Madison. Mike Bassett’s expertise in steering and coaching the veterans is legendary, as he pulls vets from all walks, nooks, and crannies into his rec programs.

The weather and fish cooperated as our fleet took over the Varney stretch of the Madison. A sumptuous lunch was enjoyed in the islands with bald eagles and osprey riding the wind currents overhead, though are both on the lookout for an easy meal.

Our newish staff, Patrick Quinn and Todd Hoar, captained the oars as Peter Pauwels, ever the master, coached the flotilla down the river. Pat and Todd are the manpower we really needed to complete the loop. These highly competent men have the right stuff to take the program to the next level.

Mid-summer, Peter and I, in tacit agreement, decided that it was time to pass Camp Bullwheel onto Ability Montana. Ability has leased the property for the last three years and proven their capability and sincerity in continuing the programs, all designed to benefit people with disabilities. The name will remain- Camp Bullwheel in honor of where it all started, the property originating from the homesteaders, the Daems Family. The iconic wheel is one of very few still in existence, instilling power, strength, and faith to our growing following.

The future is bright for Camp Bullwheel. Ability Montana’s recreational programs and staff are growing exponentially along with the population of southwestern Montana, with a plethora of opportunities targeted for people with disabilities.

Your continuing support has made this possible! Seriously. My words of gratitude. . . to those that stepped up. To our volunteers, kudos. To the support in the Madison Valley and so many names of caring individuals, worldwide!

I speak for myself and Peter Pauwels- This effort over the past seven years has been the joy and honor of our lives. I will continue to fund raise for Camp Bullwheel and invite your participation as well.

Donate

Your contributions go directly to the operations and facilities that make the Camp Bullwheel magic happen.

Volunteer

There’s plenty to do!  We anticipate needing cooks, oarsmen, cleaners, and construction volunteers.  Come be a part of the action!

be our guest

We are still accepting applications.  We will process applications as they are received.

Ability Montana

For more information about Ability Montana
June 1, 2022, we began a partnership with Ability Montana.  Camp Bullwheel is overjoyed to partner with and provide this recreational destination a stone’s throw from the Madison River at Varney Bridge.