Fiscal Year 2026 | Quarter 3

June | Nature in the Park | Winnemucca Office

Since June 2026, Nevada Outdoor School's Winnemucca office has welcomed 89 children through its Nature in the Park (NITP) program, resulting in 89 hours of Time Spent Outdoors (TSO). Programming has been offered at three community locations—WMCA, Lovelock, and Battle Mountain (BMT)—providing young participants with engaging opportunities to learn and play outside. This season's lessons have explored the fascinating world of animals, featuring topics such as elephants, worms, spiders, and other wildlife. Children have responded enthusiastically to the hands-on crafts, interactive games, and outdoor activities incorporated into each lesson. Overall participation has continued to grow across program locations, with the exception of WMCA, demonstrating strong community interest in early childhood outdoor education throughout the region.

June | Nature in the Park | Elko Office

Throughout June, Nature in the Park welcomed nearly 150 participants across the Elko, Spring Creek, Carlin, and Wells communities. Young explorers discovered the wonders of the natural world through hands-on lessons about the water cycle, worms, flowers, and dinosaurs. A highlight of the month was seeing children return week after week and continue their outdoor journey by enrolling in Nevada Outdoor School's summer camps. The Elko region accounted for nearly half of all Nature in the Park participants this summer, demonstrating strong community support for outdoor education. This enthusiastic participation reflects the value families place on opportunities for children to get outside, connect with nature, and build lasting relationships with the outdoors.

June 29 | Ruby Marshes Day Camp

On June 29, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the Elko Ruby Marshes Day Camp, providing campers with a full day of outdoor exploration and learning at Ruby Marshes. Participants toured the local fish hatchery, where they learned how fish are raised and stocked to support healthy aquatic ecosystems. The group also met with a wildlife biologist who shared insight into the marsh habitat and the diverse wildlife that depends on it. Campers spent time hiking a nature trail, observing plants, animals, and signs of wildlife along the way. Throughout the day, the experience encouraged curiosity, stewardship, and a deeper respect for the natural world through hands-on, place-based learning.

June 26 | Nevada Gold Mines Bike Rodeo

On June 26, Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Nevada Gold Mines Bike Rodeo in Elko, where NOS connected with 122 community members to share information about upcoming programming and the importance of wearing helmets while biking and operating OHVs. The event had a strong turnout, and it was especially fun to see each child’s personality shine through the helmets they selected. Weather conditions were ideal, making for a comfortable and enjoyable day compared to previous years. Children received helmets provided by Nevada Gold Mines and then had the opportunity to take part in a skills course, putting both their abilities and new safety gear to the test. The event served as a meaningful opportunity to support local youth with essential safety equipment while encouraging safe and responsible outdoor recreation.

June 25 | City of Elko Summer Camp

On June 25, Nevada Outdoor School partnered with the City of Elko Summer Camp to provide a hands-on dinosaur-themed learning experience for five campers. Through games, songs, a dinosaur egg hunt, and imaginative play, participants explored the prehistoric world while building creativity and curiosity. Despite the range of ages, each child remained engaged as they roared, stomped, and pretended to be dinosaurs, creating a memorable and energetic learning environment. Campers also spent time outdoors searching for natural items that might have served as food for dinosaurs, encouraging observation, exploration, and a deeper connection to nature. Throughout the program, participants strengthened social connections, expanded their imaginations, and discovered that learning can be both active and fun.

June 22-25 | Lake Tahoe Pathfinders Camp

From June 22–25, Nevada Outdoor School’s Lake Tahoe Pathfinders Camp brought together seven campers for an unforgettable outdoor adventure filled with new experiences and hands-on learning. Campers traveled with staff member Jessie to Kings Beach, explored Spooner Lake, and challenged themselves at the Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park. After completing the high ropes course, the group celebrated with a well-earned ice cream stop at Susie Scoops in Incline Village, where each camper chose their own treat. Throughout the week, participants learned about the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace and the Ten Essentials before hiking the Spooner Lake Loop Trail, building both skills and confidence in the outdoors. The group stayed at Sunridge Golf and Recreation, where they also gave back through a stewardship project by wiping down tables inside the event pavilion, reinforcing the importance of caring for shared spaces.

June 15-18 | Lake Tahoe Pathfinders Camp

From June 15–18, Nevada Outdoor School hosted Elko Adventure Camp, providing campers with four days of exploration, stewardship, and friendship. Participants ventured into Lamoille Canyon, where they learned about the importance of protecting one of northeastern Nevada's most treasured landscapes. Through hands-on activities and a stewardship project, campers practiced caring for the environment by collecting litter around the Powerhouse and leaving the area better than they found it. The overnight camping experience encouraged teamwork as campers worked together to set up tents, while the evening campfire program fostered confidence, creativity, and lasting friendships. By the end of camp, participants returned home with new outdoor skills, meaningful memories, and excitement for future Nevada Outdoor School adventures.

June 8-11 | Winnemucca Adventure Camp

From June 8–11, Nevada Outdoor School hosted Winnemucca Adventure Camp, offering youth a week filled with outdoor exploration, hands-on learning, and personal growth. Campers built new friendships and strengthened connections through shared experiences and team-based activities throughout the week. Partnerships with local organizations, including the museum and the Bureau of Land Management, enriched the camp by providing unique educational opportunities and interactive learning experiences. Participants also took part in a stewardship project, giving back to the local environment while learning more about conservation and responsible recreation. A day spent at the city pool provided a welcome break from the summer heat and quickly became a highlight of the camp. Overall, the week fostered teamwork, stewardship, confidence, and a lasting appreciation for the outdoors, with many campers expressing excitement to return for future Nevada Outdoor School programs.

June 6 | Fire & Ice Charity Golf Scramble in Spring Creek

On June 6, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a successful SC Golf Tournament, welcoming 21 teams and a fantastic turnout of community members for a day of fun, fundraising, and outdoor recreation. Participants enjoyed beautiful weather, a welcome change from the previous year, and high spirits could be felt throughout the event. A highlight of the tournament was the introduction of a professional long-drive golfer fundraiser, which not only impressed attendees with incredible displays of skill but also proved to be a successful fundraising opportunity. Additional fundraising activities included a silent auction featuring several popular items, as well as raffles for four coolers, two firearms, and a cornhole set. Nevada Outdoor School extends its sincere gratitude to event sponsor Orla Mining for making the tournament possible, along with gun sponsors 5th Gear Powersports and Ramcon Construction; cooler sponsors American Legion, High Mountain Metal, and McEwen Mining; cornhole sponsor Main Electric Supply; and prize sponsors Gold Dust West, Sunridge Golf and Recreation, and Golf Management. Their support helped create a memorable event that brought the community together while supporting outdoor education opportunities across Nevada.

June 1-5 | Elko Explorers Camp 1

From June 1–5, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the first week of Elko Explorers Camp, providing campers with a fun-filled outdoor experience centered around a different theme each day. The variety of themes kept activities fresh and engaging while encouraging creativity, exploration, and active participation. Throughout the week, NOS staff built meaningful connections with campers by learning about their interests, personalities, and favorite camp activities. Through themed games, crafts, stories, and hands-on experiences, campers stayed engaged while developing new friendships and trying new activities. The camp fostered a welcoming and supportive environment where youth felt comfortable exploring, learning, and creating lasting memories alongside their peers.

May 30 | Volunteer Fair

On May 30, Nevada Outdoor School participated in a Volunteer Fair in Elko, where staff connected with more than 40 community members interested in giving back through volunteer service. Throughout the event, the team had meaningful conversations about NOS programs, opportunities to get involved, and the impact of AmeriCorps in communities across Nevada. A key goal of attending the fair was to recruit additional board members from the Elko area, and the event provided valuable opportunities to discuss local leadership and community engagement. Staff also shared the importance of outdoor experiences for Nevada youth, highlighting how time spent outdoors supports learning, confidence, and healthy development. These conversations led to several youth signing up for Nevada Outdoor School summer camps, making the event a successful opportunity to expand community connections and inspire more young people to get outside.

May 20 | Historical Walk through Winnemucca

On May 20, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Historical Walk through Winnemucca that brought together 11 community members for an engaging morning of local history and exploration. Participants enjoyed a presentation and guided tour from the Humboldt Museum, which highlighted all 14 stops along the route and provided fascinating insights into the area's past. Throughout the walk, attendees were actively engaged, asking thoughtful questions and sharing in meaningful conversations. Guests were welcomed with music during check-in and had the opportunity to enjoy snacks before and after the event. Four children also took home a special souvenir—a photo with Nox. With beautiful weather and enthusiastic participation, the event was a wonderful success, and many attendees expressed excitement about attending future Nevada Outdoor School programs.

May 20 | Winnemucca Mental Health Walk

On May 20, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Mental Health Walk at Lowry High School, bringing together students and community members for a meaningful event focused on wellness, connection, and awareness. The walk provided an opportunity to engage directly with a high school age group that is not often reached, allowing staff to connect with students in a supportive and positive environment. Throughout the event, Nevada Outdoor School promoted the Voyagers Camp, shared program information, and distributed merchandise to help increase visibility and interest in upcoming opportunities. The presence of additional vendors also helped strengthen community partnerships and expand outreach through shared exposure. Overall, the event helped build stronger connections with students, families, and community partners, while encouraging continued collaboration and participation in future Nevada Outdoor School programs

May 18-21 | Flagview Field Trips

From May 18–21, Nevada Outdoor School worked with back-to-back field trip groups at Flagview, delivering engaging 20-minute lessons to classes throughout the week. Students were introduced to the seven Leave No Trace principles and learned simple ways they can help protect and care for the outdoors. Through the interactive Artifact Thief game, participants explored outdoor ethics while practicing teamwork and problem-solving skills. NOS AmeriCorps members adapted each lesson to fit different age groups, ensuring students remained engaged, involved, and excited to learn. By connecting with a large number of students over the course of the week, Nevada Outdoor School helped create a positive, energetic learning environment that encouraged outdoor stewardship and responsible recreation.

May 15 | Terrarium Workshop

On May 15, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Terrarium Workshop that brought together 18 participants for an evening of hands-on learning and creativity. During the workshop, participants learned about the different layers that make up a terrarium and why each layer plays an important role in maintaining a healthy, balanced environment. The group used Fittonia, also known as nerve plants, which quickly became a favorite because of their vibrant colors and unique leaf patterns. To personalize their terrariums, participants selected from a variety of resin animals and crystals to add their own creative touch to each jar. The workshop also included instruction on proper terrarium care, including how to maintain the water cycle and keep the miniature ecosystems healthy over time. Overall, the event provided a fun and educational opportunity for participants to connect with nature through creativity and hands-on exploration.

May 15 | Little Choices Big Impact

On May 15, Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Little Choices Big Impact event with an interactive booth focused on bugs and insects. Throughout the event, NOS staff engaged youth in conversations about different insects, sharing fun facts and encouraging curiosity about the natural world. Participants played educational games that kept them active, excited, and involved while learning about nature and outdoor science. Many of the kids asked thoughtful and enthusiastic questions about bugs, showing a strong interest in the environment around them. Overall, the event created a fun and engaging learning experience that combined outdoor education, hands-on activities, and meaningful community connection.

May 9 | Self Reliance Fair

On May 9, Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Self Reliance Fair in Battle Mountain, where the event brought out strong support and engagement from the local community. Throughout the day, the NOS booth connected with approximately 164 participants, providing opportunities to share outdoor education resources and upcoming summer programming. Using real outdoor gear and materials, NOS demonstrated the 10 Essentials and discussed the importance of preparedness and safety while recreating outdoors. Community members also learned about the upcoming Battle Mountain Day Camp and other Nevada Outdoor School summer camp opportunities. With beautiful weather and a welcoming atmosphere, the event created meaningful conversations and strengthened connections within the Battle Mountain community. Organizer Pam was especially supportive and took time to learn more about the 10 Essentials alongside participants.