The property where Wildwood Ranch is located was originally acquired by Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) in the early 1970s for a farming initiative. DRMM wanted to give homeless men a skill and the farm in Howell was a good place to learn. Th The property was originally acquired by Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) in the early 1970s for a farming initiative. The distance to the property and the lack of overnight housing caused this program to stop after a short period of time.

Wildwood Ranch began in 1974 after the DRMM President noticed neighborhood children playing on the streets and in the fire hydrants. God laid it on his heart to turn the property into a summer camp. The original mission was simple and powerful: to provide children from disadvantaged communities in Detroit with opportunities to experience the joy of camp, discover their potential, and grow in a caring, Christian environment.

In 1974, the vision evolved into a summer camp serving fewer than 100 children during its first summer. Over the years, Wildwood Ranch grew into a youth development ministry dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of children and teenagers.

Today, Wildwood Ranch continues to offer day camps, overnight camps, horseback riding programs, leadership development, and outdoor adventure experiences. Through its partnership with Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, Wildwood remains committed to connecting children and families to God and His creation, helping young people grow in faith, confidence, character, and a sense of purpose.

For more than 50 years, Wildwood Ranch has carried forward a lasting mission: to make the transforming love of Christ known while giving every child the opportunity to learn, grow, explore, and belong.