Camp Discovery Where Friendship, Fun and Dreams are Discovered

About Camp Discovery

Camp Discovery is a non-profit organization founded by Joe and Fran Tonsmeire of Lemhi, Idaho. The Tonsmeire family has been part of the ranching and outfitting community in Idaho for over 30 years. Through their lifelong endeavors they have seen first hand the enjoyment, growth and recuperative benefits found in nature and wilderness and are eager to share their love of the outdoors with those who face serious challenges.

“In the winter of 2004 Joe began his cancer treatments in Boise, Idaho at Mountain States Tumor Institute and St. Luke's Hospital. It wasn't long before we became aware of the Children's Oncology Center there. The mental and physical effect of cancer treatments are extremely difficult to handle but it is particularly painstaking to see children and their families having to deal with it. You immediately want to reach out and do something.

First, we began sponsoring a craft program for the children while they were in the hospital. This was a big hit with the children but it somehow wasn't enough. Then, the idea for a recreational camp for children with disabling diseases began to take shape. With the enthusiasm of several caring people it has become a reality, we held our first two camps in the summer of 2007.

In the years to follow we hope many children and their families will discover a meaningful experience with nature through rafting, hiking, interaction with horses and other ranch animals in the beautiful wilderness of central Idaho. With an open heart and an expanding vision the organization could eventually include other groups in need and more camps with specific interest. We look forward to the journey.”

Fran Tonsmeire

Dedication to Joe Tonsmeire

Joe lived life to the fullest. Most of his days were spent in the outdoors, whether on wilderness adventures, working on the ranch, climbing mountains, riding the range or chasing an elk up many a mountain top. He loved the land and rivers deeply and was truly an adventurer. His family and many friends are left with countless treasured memories of the adventures shared. And all the while it appeared Joe was having the most fun of all.

The following poem was written by Joe's daughter Amy.

With the pace of a mountain goat and the heart of Lion,
he never stopped living - he'd rather die trying;
From the top of McKinley or thru raging falls,

he's riding the range and shooting the stars;
The River it called and the trail it began,

and the wind always whispered to this special man;
A figure of love, and passion and grace,

blue dancing eyes and a smile on his face;
I wonder now what we should do or should say;

I'll follow his tracks and cherish each day;
Well the River it called and the trail it began

and the wind always whispered to this special man.

Mission Statement
Offering the healing benefits of nature, art and outdoor experiences to those challenged by serious illness

Executive Director:

Mary Wright - Salmon, Idaho

Board of Directors:

Fran Tonsmeire - Co-Founder and Owner Wilderness River Outfitters, Lemhi, Idaho
Katsey Long - Private Practice Counseling & Therapy, Jackson, Wyoming
Joyce Scott - Director, The Shepherd's Home, McCall, Idaho
Dan Tonsmeire - Director, Apalachacola Riverkeepers, East Point, Florida
Gary Power - Idaho Fish & Game Commissioner, Salmon, Idaho

Board Advisors:

Terry Myers - Former Executive Director, Whitewater Therapeutic Riding, Salmon, Idaho
Arthur Tonsmeire - Owner, Tonsmeire Properties, Fairhope, Alabama
Amy Tonsmeire - Commercial Artist, Salmon, Idaho

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