Facilities & Technology
Every day at the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus, people of all ages engage in thoughtfully designed experiences to discover new things about themselves, their relationships with their peers and their community. We believe that the natural environment enhances human connection by fostering the time and space for meaningful experiences, mentoring, and reflection. Groups that host their events at James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus find that the natural environment is not just in the background, but an integral part of their experience.
John & Jacolyn Bucksbaum Family Outdoor Gateway
The John and Jacolyn Bucksbaum Family Outdoor Gateway is an extraordinary event venue, located approximately one and a half miles inside the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus. It is tucked away in high country at 7,900 feet in elevation. The Bucksbaum Outdoor Gateway offers multiple event configurations and includes the main hall and stage, outdoor amphitheater, two learning studios, one arts studio, one conference room, and an indoor rock wall. Enjoy the seclusion of the surrounding wilderness or utilize the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus technology capabilities to connect with friends, family, and colleagues across the globe.
The John and Jacolyn Bucksbaum Family Outdoor Gateway is available to book as a special event space and is utilized to support our lodging accommodations and our outdoor experiences.
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Facility Features
7,850 sq ft. can be configured in a banquet, reception, or recreation setup to accommodate up to 306 guests.
- A main hall with a platform stage that can accommodate 150 people.
- Stage can also open to an outdoor amphitheater for a unique setting
- Two (2) Learning Studios that can accommodate 8-25 people
- One (1) Arts Studio that accommodates 12-15 people
- One (1) Conference Room that can accommodate 12 people
- Indoor Climbing Wall
- Wi-Fi accessible
- Full audio and video support
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The Outdoor Experience
The Bucksbaum Outdoor Gateway serves as the hub for all things outdoor recreation. Guests can check out outdoor equipment from the gear library, consult staff about recreation opportunities on the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus and beyond, or meet their group to embark on an Outdoor Experience program.
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Learning Studios
Learning Studio 1 is available to book as a standalone event space or incorporated into a reservation package. Connected to the Bucksbaum Outdoor Gateway, the Learning Studio 1 features:
- Standard conference room set up can accommodate up to 12 people
- Standard classroom set up can accommodate up to 16 people
- Standard oval seating set up can accommodate up to 25 people
- Integrated A/V: Built-in TV
- Easy access to Bucksbaum Outdoor Gateway parking
- Easy access to the Heli Pad where groups enjoy a large flat outdoor space for games and activities
Learning Studio 2 is also available to book as a standalone event space or incorporated into a reservation package. Connected to the Bucksbaum Outdoor Gateway, the Learning Studio 2 features:
- Standard classroom set up can accommodate up to 16 people
- Standard oval seating set up can accommodate up to 25 people
- White board
- Easy access to the outdoors and covered patio
- A/V equipment cart available
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Art Studio
The Art Studio is available to book as a standalone event space or incorporated into a reservation package. Connected to the Bucksbaum Outdoor Gateway, the Art Studio features:
- Standard classroom setup can accommodate up to 16 people
- Standard oval seating setup can accommodate up to 25 people
- Whiteboard
- Easy access to the outdoors and covered patio
- A/V equipment cart available
- Wash sink
- Drop cloths
- Arts and crafts tables and easels
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Conference Room
The Conference Room is available to book as a standalone event space or incorporated into a reservation package. Connected to the Bucksbaum Outdoor Gateway, the Conference Room features:
- Standard conference room set up can accommodate up to 10 people
- Integrated A/V: Built in TV with click share and
- Easy access to Bucksbaum Outdoor Gateway parking
Andy & Barbara Taylor Upper Camp Dining Hall
The Andy and Barbara Taylor Upper Camp Dining Hall is a wonderfully secluded getaway, located approximately one and a half miles inside the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus. It is tucked away in high country at 7,900 feet in elevation, Andy and Barbara Taylor Upper Camp Dining Hall offers a fireplace, multiple event, and dining space configurations with the ability to accommodate up to 300 guests, a projection system and surrounded audio, a commercial kitchen, and a wraparound partially covered deck. Breathe in the crisp alpine air and soak in the stunning views that surround you. At night, use your wilderness ethic to stargaze into a dark sky environment and let the sky overwhelm you.
The Andy and Barbara Taylor Upper Camp Dining Hall is available to book as a special event space and is utilized to support our lodging accommodations.
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Facility Features
5,312 sq ft. can be configured in a dining hall, banquet, reception, lecture, two classrooms, or boardroom set up to accommodate up to 306 guests.
- Food and beverage capabilities (including alcohol, with special permit license)
- Wi-Fi accessible
- Full audio and video support
- Covered deck patio for 75 people
- Fireplace
- Commercial kitchen with outstanding culinary team
- Stunning views
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Welcome Center
The Welcome Center is available during all events at the Kennedy Mountain Campus, hours may vary and will be announced during your Welcome and Safety Briefing at the beginning of your event. Guest Services are available in the Welcome Center.
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Sunset Deck
Enjoy stunning views and accommodate groups up to 75 people.
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Conference Room
The Dining Hall Conference Room is available to book as a standalone event space or incorporated into a reservation package. Connected to the Andy & Barbara Taylor Upper Camp Dining Hall and located adjacent to the Storytelling and Reflection Lab, the Conference Room features:
- Standard conference room setup can accommodate up to 8 people
- Integrated A/V: Built-in TV with click share and
Easy access to the Dining Hall, Storytelling and Reflection Lab, Health Center, and parking.
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Health Center
The Health Center is available to book as part of a reservation package. For University of Denver student groups, the KMC Health Center is activated as an extension of the University of Denver Health and Counseling Center. Connected to the Andy & Barbara Taylor Upper Camp Dining Hall the features include:
- Reception area
- Exam room
- Isolation room
- Sleeping area with two beds for medical personnel
- Kitchenette with sink, microwave, fridge/freezer
- Washer and dryer
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Storytelling & Reflection Lab
The Andy and Barbara Taylor Upper Camp Storytelling and Reflection Lab opens a new dimension at the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus as students and guests can integrate their outdoor experiences into reflection and storytelling through technology. The media lab contains 12 computer stations and will soon be the hub of other digital equipment available for checkout to allow students and guests to capture and share their experiences at the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus. The 600 sq ft. is configured in a lab set up to accommodate 12-15 people and features:
- Supports the extension of the urban campus Digital Media Center
- Utilizes 12 high-definition Apple iMac workstations for video and audio editing
- Intimate, creative place where people discover their own voice and learn to bring it to life
- Utilize writing, audio, and video to tell your story and experience of the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus
- Workshop and educational opportunities to maximize the use of the storytelling lab
- Coming soon: audio and video-enhanced equipment for checkout
Brandon & Wendy B. Johnson Campfire Circle
Step into the warmth of tradition and reflection at the Brandon and Wendy B. Johnson Campfire Circle in the heart of the Taylor Upper Camp. Just as the crackling fire has ignited community and storytelling for generations, this space kindles the spirit of the Kennedy Mountain Campus and 4D Experience vision.
This cherished space provides a sanctuary where stories are shared, laughter echoes, and meaningful connections are forged around the warm embrace of crackling flames. As the fire illuminates the faces of those gathered, it symbolizes the light of knowledge, growth, and shared experiences that make our community stronger. This circle embodies our commitment to creating lasting memories, deepening connections, and embracing the warmth of togetherness in the midst of the natural beauty that surrounds us. Join us at the Johnson Campfire Circle, where the flames of tradition illuminate our path to a brighter tomorrow.
Indoor & Outdoor Meeting & Activity Spaces
The indoor and outdoor meeting and activity locations at the University of Denver’s James C. Kennedy Mountain campus are endless. From the studios in the Activity Center to Cliff Lake and everywhere in between, KMC has a place that meets your group's needs.
Cabin Common Rooms
If you are lodging in one of our Community Cabins, you can enjoy the flexibility of the built-in common room. If you are lodging in one of our Homestead Cabins, you can enjoy the flexibility of the built-in Shower House patio.
A few of our favorite spots are:
- Bucksbaum Outdoor Gateway Helicopter Pad
- Cabin Meadow
- Brandon and Wendy Johnson Campfire Circle
- Challenge Course Pavilion
- Dining Hall Deck
- Cliff Lake Pavilion
- Roosevelt National Forest Overlook
- Backcountry Meadow
Mid Camp
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Riding Center
There are barn facilities at the Kennedy Mountain Campus, though opportunities for equestrian activities are currently found off-site.
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Emmerich Family Trail
Journey across the Mid Camp on foot to experience scenic views and refreshing mountain air, for all experience levels.
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South Lone Pine Creek
The gentle flow of South Lone Pine Creek weaves through the heart of the campus, enhancing the natural beauty of Kennedy Mountain Campus.
Lower Camp
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Campgrounds
Exciting campground facilities are on the horizon, promising even more opportunities for outdoor adventures at Kennedy Mountain Campus. Coming soon...
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Red Feather Lakes Access
The town of Red Feather Lakes and surrounding recreational areas are just minutes away from the Kennedy Mountain Campus. Heading west on 74E you will find trailheads for Mount Margaret, Lady Moon, Parvin Lake, West Lake, and Dowdy Lake as you venture towards the town of Red Feather Lakes, CO.
Network Connectivity at Kennedy Mountain Campus
As technology has become central to our lives, the campus' Internet Connectivity Policy intentionally disconnects guests from the demands of our everyday lives. We seek to address the rising issues associated with constant connectivity through cultivating space where students, faculty, staff, and guests can engage and be present. The paradox of constant connectivity—always online yet disconnected from shared experiences—can lead to feelings of isolation. We aim to provide experiences that allow genuine connections with peers, nature, and the Kennedy Mountain Campus adventure.
- Each building has a landline with pre-programmed numbers to the University of Denver’s Campus Safety and Kennedy Mountain Campus Front Desk.
- Staff carry 2-way radios, cell phones, and have access to satellite phones when/where cell service is not available.
- Staff are connected to the private Kennedy Mountain Campus Staff Network to streamline programs, operations, and events.
Audio/Visual Technology
At the Kennedy Mountain Campus, the A/V technology is available for scheduled use within group reservations. We recommend working with the KMC staff to ensure we can accommodate your A/V needs during the reservation process.
Standard A/V
The Dining Hall, Learning Studio 1, and Conference Rooms have TVs with casting and standard connections. In addition, the Dining Hall will have a ceiling mounted projector, sound system, and presentation podium.
Additional A/V
The Kennedy Mountain Campus portable A/V services can accompany, supplement, or replace our standard A/V options. Additional A/V items include:
- TV carts with standard connections
- Portable sound systems (Bluetooth speaker with microphones)