In the 1970s, local couple John and Nelda Nevels started taking troubled boys into their home in Morrow, Arkansas. This Christ-centered outreach was known as the King’s Ranch. In 1973, this ministry became affiliated with Teen Challenge USA, and became the first residential Teen Challenge program and addiction treatment exclusively for adolescent boys.

King’s Ranch grew and eventually moved to its current location in 1980. Because of the kindness and generosity of the people of Morrow, Arkansas, the ministry was allowed to move to 5 acres of land and buildings previously used by the Morrow Community School district. Later, an additional surrounding 30 acres were purchased for expansion. In 1993, the ministry changed its name to Teen Challenge Ranch of Northwest Arkansas.

Over the past 50 years, Teen Challenge Adventure Ranch has continued to grow. Today, it’s a 40-bed residential facility for teen boys ages 14-17. As a state-licensed, CARF-accredited treatment center, the facility is equipped to provide 24-hour care for teens struggling with substance abuse, serious mental health conditions, or maladaptive behaviors.

Our campus sits on a 31-acre ranch and includes the Full-Life Center for therapy and academics, Equestrian Center, Recreation Building, and two Dorms. Exterior facilities include a pond, low and high ropes courses with a zipline, a soccer field, disc golf, and basketball. Additionally, the facility owns and maintains a separate property bordering the national forest for outdoor adventure excursions.