Teen Valley Ranch was founded by Bob and Pat Anderson with a vision to create a place where young people could encounter Christ in a meaningful and lasting way. 

In 1968, TVR became incorporated as New Life Fellowship under a board of directors. The original property consisted of 34 acres in Plumtree, North Carolina—once home to an old apple orchard. At that time, the only structure on the land was a hay barn, which has since been remodeled and now serves as our Snack Shack. 

Today, TVR spans 147 acres and sits at an elevation ranging from 3,000 to 3,500 feet, depending on your location on campus. 

In 1978, Bob and Pat Anderson felt the Lord leading them to begin a sister camp, Trails End Ranch, located in Ekalaka, Montana. 

Following the Andersons, Brad Talley stepped in as director. He and his wife Linda faithfully served for 20 years. In 1998, the Talley family transitioned from TVR, and Brad now serves as lead pastor at Grace Community Church in Angier, North Carolina. 

George Wright, who had served as assistant director under Brad, became the next director. After 19 years of ministry at TVR, George and his family transitioned in 2001, and he now serves as lead pastor at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Banner Elk, North Carolina. 

James Tarpley, formerly assistant director under George, became director and served until 2004. He and his wife Jenny later launched Visio Photography and they both serve faithfully at their home church - Grace Community Church in Marion, North Carolina. 

In 2005, Greg Oakley stepped into the role of Executive Director. Alongside his wife Shelia, Greg faithfully led the ministry for many years, shepherding its growth and impact.  In 2026, amidst years of difficult health challenges, Greg stepped down from his role at camp.  He and Shelia continue to love the ministry of TVR and live just a few miles away from TVR’s property. 

In April 2026, the board of directors appointed Josh Benfield as Executive Director at TVR.  Josh had previously served on full time staff at TVR from 2002-2006.  He also served for 18 years as a pastor in the Fuquay-Varina, NC area.  He and his wife, Tracy, have 4 children and love serving as part of the TVR family! 

TVR serves over 4,500 young people and adults each year with retreat programs for every age group. Some of our retreat options include: summer camp, youth retreats, family retreats, couples retreats, winter retreats, ski retreats, Christian school retreats, ladies and men’s retreats, and an annual Christmas Tree retreat.