Thank you so much to everyone who responded! It is nice to know we are not the only one with a climber!! We are trying the option of putting a mattress on the ground; we will see how this goes and possibly transfer to a toddler bed soon. We are also working with her to let her know climbing the crib is not allowed (like we did with the bookshelves, the baby gate, the dining room chairs. . . Also, I found a fabulous place called My Little Garden, an indoor playground with all kinds of climby-things and gym mats. She can climb and climb and I can let her!! 
Again, thank you for all your valuable information!!