For over 80 years, Circle V Ranch Camp, a ministry of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles (SVDPLA), has been a place where children experience adventure, personal growth, and the beauty of nature. Nestled on 30 breathtaking acres in the Los Padres National Forest, Circle V provides campers the opportunity to connect with nature, make lifelong friends, and develop confidence in a faith-filled environment.
At the heart of this transformative camp experience is Ray Lopez, who has served as Camp Director for over 17 years. His journey with Circle V began in 1993 as a counselor, and in the 30 summers since, he has witnessed firsthand the profound impact camp has on everyone who steps foot on its grounds.
A Place Where Kids Can Just Be Kids
“Circle V gives children the chance to have good old-fashioned fun,” says Lopez. “Here, kids can just be kids—free from the stressors of home, school, and technology. For many, this is their first time truly experiencing the great outdoors, seeing a clear starry night, or encountering deer and turkeys wandering the camp.”
Each summer, campers spend five days and four nights immersed in a variety of activities including swimming, archery, arts and crafts, sports, and team-building games. Most importantly, they are surrounded by positive role models—camp counselors who listen, encourage, and support them as they grow in confidence and resilience.
A Life-Changing Experience for Campers and Staff Alike
“I think of all the kids that come through our camp and am reminded of how important they are, how good they are,” Lopez shares. “We get to see lives impacted in so many ways. Kids begin to understand that even when they make mistakes, they can try again. That they are loved unconditionally.”
Many of the children who attend Circle V Ranch Camp come from families who might not otherwise be able to afford the cost of a traditional summer camp. Thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters, SVDPLA ensures that every child has the opportunity to experience camp, regardless of financial circumstances.
Faith is at the Core of Circle V Ranch Camp
More than just a place for outdoor adventure, Circle V is a place where campers deepen their faith. Guided by Catholic values, the camp fosters a spirit of kindness, community, and service. “One of the challenges is that kids don’t always know they can be loved,” says Lopez. “Sometimes, all it takes is for someone to listen to them, hear their story, or play a game with them.”
The camp’s dedicated counselors and staff—whom Lopez calls “some of the most amazing camp counselors in the country”—model what it means to live with faith, generosity, and enthusiasm. Their impact extends far beyond the summer, as campers return home with a renewed sense of self-worth and a deeper understanding of God’s love.
A Personal Mission Rooted in Service
For Lopez, Circle V is more than just a summer camp—it’s a lifelong mission. “I wake up every day blessed to be part of this,” he says. “This job isn’t easy; it takes everything you’ve got and more. But God asks that of each one of us who comes here because of the miracles that take place.”
His love for camp extends to his own family. Lopez met his wife at Circle V, and their two sons, Joshua and JP, have grown up at the camp. “It’s been a blessing for me and my family,” he reflects. “My hope is that one day, my boys will fill the shoes of our incredible counselors and continue instilling the Circle V values of kindness, faith, and love.”
Join Us for Summer 2025!
Circle V Ranch Camp continues to change lives year after year, and we invite you to be part of this life-changing experience. Registration for Summer 2025 is now open! Whether you’re a parent looking for a meaningful summer experience for your child or a supporter eager to help provide a camper with an opportunity to attend, your involvement makes a difference.
Sign up today and give your child the gift of adventure, faith, and lifelong friendships. For families in need, SVDPLA offers camperships to cover the cost of attendance, ensuring that financial hardship is never a barrier to experiencing the magic of Circle V.
For more information and to register, visit our website at circlevranchcamp.org or call (805) 686-2696.
Together, let’s continue transforming lives—one summer at a time.
