Caitlin, a tough city girl and an orphan since age eight, faces two options when she gets in trouble with the law: Go to juvenile hall, or move to the wilds of Montana to live with distant cousins.
Caitlin's class goes on a camping trip, and Taylor and Caitlin are made partners in a tent. The teacher gets ill, and Dori and Jim are the chaperones. Caitlin and Taylor go to get firewood, and the girls forget their survival sheet. Taylor falls in the river, and Caitlin uses Griffin's guitar to rescue her.
Jim Lowe is up for re-election as Sheriff, with Griffen as his campaign manager. His plans are abruptly changed while a wiley circus bear runs loose, with a little assistance from Caitlin.
On a dare from Caitlin, Griffen steals a piece of movie memorabilia -- pulling off what seems to be an innocent prank. Consequently, Caitlin must face the repercussions of her dare. Meanwhile, Dori tries to cure an insomniac llama.
A disheartened, distraught Caitlin loses faith in herself and her creativity when her photography is criticized by a teacher. Simultaneously, Griffen gives up the High-Q team for the Grid-Iron glory.
It is the annual High River High School Spring Dance, and everyone is going, everyone except Caitlin. Dori tries to get her to come, until Caitlin explains why she is not going. She eventually comes to the dance, and dances with someone who is also at his first dance.
Caitlin out scores Griffen on an IQ test, threatening their new friendship. Griffen and friends start a garage band and audition for a talent show.