The Craftsbury Outdoor Center began in 1976 when Russell Spring and his family purchased the Cutler Academy campus and began remaking the facilities into lodging for guests and athletes. A Nordic trail network was cut on the land, with sculling and running camps founded shortly after, providing year round training and athletic opportunities in a beautiful natural setting.

After over thirty years of growth and guidance under the Springs, the Center began a new chapter in its life in November 2008 when Dick Dreissigacker and Judy Geer purchased the Center. Dick and Judy promptly reformed the company as a non-profit organization with a new mission.