Reducing Your Carbon Footprint While Getting Outdoors

At Nevada Outdoor School, we love seeing people get outside and connect with nature — it's at the heart of everything we do. Whether you’re hiking a local trail, exploring state parks, or heading out for a weekend camping adventure, there are always opportunities to reduce your environmental impact. After all, one of the most important ways we can show respect for the natural world is by treading lightly.

Here are a few practical ways you can reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the great outdoors:

 
Stay Local When You Can

Adventure doesn’t have to mean traveling far. Exploring local parks, trails, and recreation areas helps cut down on fuel use and vehicle emissions. You might be surprised at how much natural beauty exists right in your own backyard.

Carpool or Use Public Transportation
When heading out with friends or family, consider carpooling to your destination. Not only does this reduce emissions, but it also makes the trip more fun and communal. In some areas, public transportation can get you close to trailheads or parks — it’s worth checking out!

Choose Human-Powered Activities

Opt for activities like hiking, biking, paddling, or skiing instead of those that require fuel-powered vehicles. If you do enjoy OHV recreation (which we support when done responsibly!), make sure your vehicle is well-maintained and follow “Tread Lightly!” principles to minimize environmental impact.

Pack Light and Smart

The heavier your load, the more fuel your vehicle uses — especially on long trips or when backpacking with gear. Pack only what you need, invest in reusable items like water bottles and utensils, and avoid single-use plastics whenever possible.

Buy Local and Sustainable Gear

Support local outfitters and choose gear made from sustainable or recycled materials. Repair or repurpose old gear rather than replacing it, and consider shopping second-hand when possible. Not only does this save resources, it supports a circular economy.

Leave No Trace — And Go Beyond

Practicing Leave No Trace is essential to protecting wild spaces. Pack out your trash, stay on trails, and respect wildlife. But you can go even further: pick up litter left by others, volunteer for trail maintenance days, or share eco-friendly practices with your outdoor community.

Offset Where You Can

If you do need to travel longer distances, consider purchasing carbon offsets or donating to organizations that plant trees, protect habitat, or invest in renewable energy. It’s not a perfect solution, but every step helps.

Spending time outdoors can inspire deep care for the planet — and the more we care, the more we’re motivated to protect it. At Nevada Outdoor School, we’re committed to teaching outdoor ethics, stewardship, and responsible recreation. Together, we can make sure the spaces we love stay healthy and wild for generations to come.

Let’s all do our part to keep Nevada’s outdoors beautiful, accessible, and thriving.

AmeriCorps Member Spotlight: Roxy – Serving Her Hometown with Heart

Meet Roxy, an AmeriCorps member and outdoor educator with Nevada Outdoor School, serving in her hometown of Elko, Nevada. Born and raised in Elko, Roxy brings a deep-rooted passion for her community to everything she does. With a background in high school sports and a love for the outdoors, Roxy has found the perfect fit in her role connecting local youth with nature.

Roxy discovered the AmeriCorps opportunity while job searching on Indeed. The position stood out to her because it combined two of her favorite things: working with kids and spending time outside. Nearly six months into her term of service, Roxy has already made a big impact and gained valuable insight in return.

“In my own words, AmeriCorps is a great opportunity to serve your community,” she says. “It’s important because it provides so many different opportunities, not just for those serving, but for the community as a whole.”

Through her service, Roxy has developed a deeper understanding of what it means to give back. “It’s broadened my perspective,” she explains. “I’ve learned how important it is to help, and how much the community truly benefits from the work we do.”.

From teaching outdoor education programs to supporting events and activities, Roxy has been a key part of Nevada Outdoor School’s outreach. She notes that her favorite memories come from the gratitude she receives from the community: “Just seeing how thankful people are and how much they appreciate us, it’s incredibly meaningful.”

Roxy encourages anyone considering AmeriCorps to give it a shot. “It’s been a very eye-opening experience,” she reflects. “There were so many things I got to participate in. It’s a great opportunity to get involved and gain knowledge that will stick with you for life.”

As her AmeriCorps term winds down, Roxy is already looking ahead. She plans to attend Great Basin College to study radiology and earn her substitute teaching license so she can continue supporting local elementary schools.

Thank you, Roxy, for your dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to making Elko a better place to live, learn, and explore!

What's New at NOS! July 2025

July was a month full of sunshine, discovery, and outdoor adventures at Nevada Outdoor School! From the shores of Spring Creek Marina to the scenic trails of Water Canyon, our team brought engaging, hands-on experiences to kids and families across northern Nevada. With everything from Hawaiian-themed water play and pioneer fire-starting to geocaching, community service projects, and silly campfire games, each event fostered curiosity, built skills, and strengthened connections to nature. With the help of dedicated educators and enthusiastic participants, we made the most of the summer season—one camp, craft, and compass at a time!

Spring Creek Day Camp | July 1

On July 1st, Nevada Outdoor School brought the fun to the Spring Creek Marina for a Hawaiian-themed day camp. Twelve energetic campers joined in for a day packed with water games, colorful crafts, and hands-on learning about Leave No Trace principles. The camp ran smoothly with few to no issues, and every participant shared that they had a great time. It was a fantastic day of outdoor fun, learning, and laughter by the water!

Elko Adventure Camp 1 | July 7-10

From July 7–10, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the first Elko Adventure Camp of the season, bringing together 12 adventurous campers, 10 of whom stayed overnight, for a week of exploration and fun. Despite some strong winds that challenged the group’s camping experience, the kids showed incredible bravery and resilience. True to the spirit of adventure, a few eager explorers even found themselves stuck in the mud, requiring a helping hand from Outdoor Educator Bayley. Campers had a blast creating paracord bracelets and keychains, with many crafting multiple keepsakes. Evenings around the campfire were filled with laughter, vegan marshmallows, and rounds of the classic game telephone. A highlight of the week was geocaching; so much so that the group chose to keep hunting for caches rather than make their own.

Winnemucca Adventure Camp | July 14-17 

Twelve kids participated in Winnemucca Adventure Camp from July 14–17, with 11 staying overnight for the full camp experience. Throughout the week, campers took part in a variety of activities including geocaching, creek play, splash pad fun, crafts, and a meaningful community service project. They practiced navigation skills, explored their creativity, and learned the importance of giving back. A highlight of the week was the geocaching adventure, which sparked excitement and teamwork, while time spent at the creek and splash pad provided a fun way to cool off. Campers also made a positive impact by contributing to a local beautification project, helping improve shared community spaces with their time and effort.

CTIC Camp 1 | July 18 

CTIC Camp 1 on July 18 was packed with hands-on frontier fun for 14 campers! Participants explored traditional fire-starting methods and learned how pioneers built fires without modern tools. Orienteering was a hit, with kids using compasses to navigate like true trailblazers. Campers also got up close with animal pelts, discovering how fur-bearing animals played a crucial role in pioneer survival. Archery gave everyone a taste of frontier hunting skills, and the Trail Chores Relay Race brought lots of laughs and teamwork as kids hauled water, washed laundry, and raced to pack up our wagon.

Battle Mountain Self Reliance Fair | July 19

Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Battle Mountain Self-Reliance Fair on July 19th, where staff engaged with around 60 community members. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about survival techniques, including how to make snares and traps using a variety of materials—not just wire—demonstrating creative options for self-reliance in the backcountry. NOS also shared important Leave No Trace principles, helping participants understand how to minimize their impact while exploring and surviving in the outdoors.

Ward Mountain Pathfinders Camp | July 21-24

Nevada Outdoor School’s Pathfinder Camp at Ward Mountain from July 21st through July 24th, welcomed nine enthusiastic campers this summer. Each morning, the group was up early, eager to dive into the day’s planned adventures. Several campers were from Ely, which made for fun conversations about local favorites and must-see spots. The unofficial soundtrack of the week quickly became “Bye Bye Bye” by NSYNC, with campers breaking into song every ten minutes. While the weather stayed cooperative, the heat made it especially important to keep everyone hydrated and protected with plenty of sunscreen throughout the week.

Early Bird Expedition | July 25

On July 25th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted an Early Bird Expedition in beautiful Water Canyon, just outside Winnemucca. Five participants joined us for a peaceful morning hike under lovely weather conditions. The group enjoyed a scenic trek to the yurt, where a surprise treat of doughnuts was a hit with everyone. It was a refreshing and enjoyable outing, filled with great company, good views, and a sweet reward at the top.

Elko Explorers Camp | July 28-31

From July 28th to 31st, Nevada Outdoor School hosted our Elko Explorers Day Camp at Mountain View Park, welcoming an average of 22 to 25 enthusiastic students each day. Campers enjoyed a new theme and storybook daily—Dino Day, Wacky Wednesday, Under the Sea, and Superhero Day—each filled with engaging, themed activities that sparked creativity and curiosity. Wacky Wednesday brought extra smiles as kids showed off their wild outfits and silly hairstyles! With perfect weather and a popsicle treat before pickup each afternoon, it was a memorable week of learning and laughter in the outdoors.

Winnemucca Explorers Camp | July 28-31

Nevada Outdoor School’s Winnemucca Explorers Day Camp, held July 28–31, brought together eight excited campers, each eager to jump into the fun. Every day featured a new theme—Monday was Superhero Day, with campers arriving dressed as their favorite heroes; Tuesday was Water Day, filled with splashing and laughter; Wednesday was Wacky Wednesday, where wild outfits ruled the day; and Thursday was Dinosaur Day, complete with adventurous explorer hats. Each day offered new games the kids loved and creative crafts they proudly made. Conversations with the campers revealed their unique personalities, making it a joy to watch them fully embrace each day’s adventures with NOS.

July | Nature in the Park

What better way to start the morning than with a fun and engaging lesson at the park? This month, our young learners explored topics like dinosaurs, ants, camouflage, and Nevada State Symbols. During our Nevada State Symbols lesson, students even created Christmas ornaments that will be proudly displayed on the Capitol Christmas Tree later this year! The Elko office had the pleasure of teaching nearly 130 students, ranging in age from 2 to 10, throughout the month of July. It’s been a joyful, nature-filled summer, and we’re so grateful for the families and kids who joined us!

Discovering and Protecting Northern Nevada’s Conservation Areas: How You Can Help

Northern Nevada is home to sweeping deserts, snow-capped mountains, rippling rivers, and quiet wetlands, each offering a haven for wildlife and an escape for people who love the outdoors. Many of these special places are protected as conservation areas, and it takes a collective effort to keep them healthy for future generations. Whether you’re a lifelong Nevadan or just discovering the state’s wild beauty, there are many ways you can get involved.

What Are Conservation Areas?

Conservation areas are designated public lands managed to protect natural, cultural, or historical resources. In Northern Nevada, these spaces include:

• Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge – Vital wetland habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.
• Black Rock Desert–High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area – A BLM-managed area preserving pioneer trails, wide-open desert, and sensitive ecosystems.
• South Fork State Recreation Area – A favorite for anglers and campers, offering wildlife viewing and water access.
• East Humboldt and Ruby Mountain Wilderness Areas – Pristine alpine landscapes home to bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and vibrant wildflowers.

These areas provide more than beautiful backdrops; they support clean air and water, protect biodiversity, and offer opportunities for recreation, reflection, and education.

Conservation Organizations Making a Difference

Northern Nevada is lucky to have several passionate organizations working on the front lines of conservation. Here are just a few:

Friends of Nevada Wilderness

Dedicated to preserving Nevada’s wilderness and public lands, this group organizes stewardship projects like trail maintenance and trash cleanups while advocating for strong land protections.

The Nature Conservancy – Nevada Chapter

TNC works on large-scale conservation projects throughout the state, including wetland restoration in the Truckee and Carson River watersheds and habitat protection in the sagebrush steppe.

Nevada Land Trust

This nonprofit conserves open space and natural resources through land acquisitions, easements, and partnerships. They focus on protecting working ranches, river corridors, and public access areas.

Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW)

NDOW manages fish and wildlife resources and leads habitat restoration efforts. They also offer education programs and volunteer opportunities to support conservation statewide.

Nevada Outdoor School (that’s us!)

We support conservation through education, teaching Leave No Trace principles, responsible recreation, and environmental stewardship to youth and adults across rural Nevada. We also host volunteer days and AmeriCorps service opportunities focused on outdoor education and trail projects.

How You Can Help

Protecting Northern Nevada’s conservation areas doesn’t require big moves—just consistent, thoughtful actions. Here’s how you can make a difference:

1. Practice Leave No Trace

Leave nature better than you found it. Stay on trails, pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and avoid damaging plants or habitats.

2. Volunteer Your Time

Join a trail crew, help remove invasive species, or sign up for a habitat clean-up with local groups. Even one day can make a lasting impact.

3. Be a Responsible User

Respect land use rules and stay in designated areas, especially when camping or riding OHVs. Your actions matter.

4. Support Conservation Groups

Make a donation, become a member, or attend events hosted by local conservation organizations. They rely on community support to do their work.

5. Educate and Inspire Others

Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about the value of public lands. Share your love of the outdoors and encourage others to tread lightly.

Northern Nevada’s conservation areas are more than beautiful, they’re essential. With your help, we can ensure these lands remain wild, healthy, and accessible for generations to come.

Swim Safe, Splash Smart: Enjoying Natural Waters Responsibly

As summer arrives and the temperatures rise, natural waters become inviting places to cool off, explore, and make lasting memories. Nevada is home to a wide range of outdoor water experiences—from alpine lakes and peaceful reservoirs to fast-moving rivers and remote hot springs. At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe in making the most of nature while recreating responsibly. Whether you're swimming solo, with friends, or enjoying time in the water with kids, knowing how to stay safe is key to a fun and memorable experience.

No matter where you’re swimming, it’s essential to follow some general water safety practices. Always swim with a buddy, accidents can happen even to strong swimmers, and having someone nearby could save a life. Before heading out, check the weather forecast and any local water advisories. Conditions can change quickly, and it’s important to be prepared. Life jackets are a smart choice for anyone who isn’t a strong swimmer, as well as for children or anyone recreating in deep or fast-moving water. Avoid alcohol around natural waters, as it impairs judgment and coordination. Never dive into natural waters; hidden rocks or sudden depth changes can lead to serious injury. And stay alert for common hazards like slippery rocks, cold water shock, and unexpected changes in the water’s flow or temperature.

Lakes and reservoirs often appear calm and inviting, making them popular spots for swimming and paddling. But they can still pose risks. It’s safest to swim near designated areas when available, as these are more likely to be monitored and free from underwater hazards. Watch for floating debris and sudden drop-offs, which are common near lake shores. Wind can also quickly change water conditions, making it harder to swim or control small watercraft.

Rivers and streams offer exciting opportunities to explore, but they come with added risks. Even shallow rivers can have strong currents that make swimming difficult or dangerous. Avoid the main current and look for calmer pools, also known as eddies, if you want to cool off. Always enter the water cautiously, testing the depth and footing before committing. Cold mountain streams, in particular, can cause cold water shock, which can affect your ability to swim or breathe properly.

Hot springs, especially those found throughout Nevada’s backcountry, are a unique way to enjoy nature. However, they require caution. Some hot springs can be dangerously hot, so always test the water before entering. Never put your head under water in a hot spring, as this can increase the risk of rare but serious infections. Soaking can also lead to dehydration or overheating, so be sure to drink water and limit your time in the hot pools, especially on sunny days.

When enjoying natural water with children, safety becomes even more important. Always assign one adult as a designated “water watcher,” someone who is focused entirely on supervising kids. Life jackets should be worn by young children and anyone who is not a confident swimmer—arm floaties or pool noodles are not reliable safety devices. Before kids enter the water, set clear boundaries about where they can go and make sure they understand the risks. Teach them to respect water, to stay calm if they need help, and how to get assistance. Start slow with little ones, allowing them to get comfortable with the temperature and movement of natural water. Watch for signs of tiredness or discomfort and always be ready to adapt your plans.

Swimming in natural waters can be one of the best parts of summertime, and it’s even better when done safely. At Nevada Outdoor School, we want everyone to experience the joy of the outdoors in a way that is safe, respectful, and fun. By taking a few precautions and teaching young adventurers how to be smart around water, families can build unforgettable memories in Nevada’s beautiful wild spaces. So go ahead—splash, swim, and soak it all in—but always remember to swim safe and splash smart.

What's New at NOS! June 2025

At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe that meaningful outdoor experiences create lasting memories, spark curiosity, and build stronger communities. This year, our team has been hard at work delivering a variety of programs that connect people to nature through hands-on learning and outdoor adventure. From family camps to educational hikes, youth activities, and skill-building workshops, we’ve seen incredible enthusiasm and engagement across all ages. One standout moment from this year’s programming was our Elko Family Camp—an unforgettable weekend of connection, exploration, and fun.

June 6 | Gravely Fjord Field Trip

Nevada Outdoor School recently had the unique opportunity to explore a permit-only section of the California Trail, offering a rare glimpse into areas many don’t typically get to see. Traveling caravan-style, we journeyed along historic routes, tracing the paths once taken by wagon wheels and early travelers on foot. One particularly memorable moment was the chance to use dowsing rods at an unmarked graveyard, adding a layer of reflection and connection to the past. Lunch was generously provided, giving participants time to rest and reflect on the significance of the day. This special experience deepened our appreciation for the rich history woven into the landscape of the California Trail.

June 7 | Cave Lake Reopen

On June 7th, Nevada Outdoor School had the pleasure of attending the Cave Lake reopening celebration, where we connected with approximately 100 attendees. We engaged in conversations about potential future programs and collaborative events with community members and partners. Our Leave No Trace Trash Timeline activity was a crowd favorite, drawing interest and sparking discussion. We also led a Leave No Trace hike along the scenic Steptoe Creek Trail with three enthusiastic participants. The day concluded with the ribbon-cutting ceremony, officially marking the long-awaited reopening of Cave Lake.

June 8 | Fire & Ice Charity Golf Scramble

On June 8th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the Fire & Ice Charity Golf Scramble, and it was a day to remember! With 25 teams participating—the most we've ever had—the event was a huge success. After being rained out last month, we were thrilled to see so many teams return for our rescheduled date. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our incredible sponsors who helped make this event possible. Cooler Sponsors included American Legion, Gene & Chrissy Hunt, US Bank, Core Title Group, and Les Schwab. Firearm Sponsors were Ramcon, 5th Gear Powersports, and BF Guns & Gear. Prize Sponsors included Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Dayton Valley Golf Club, and Duncan Golf Management. Team Sponsors were Bawcom Realty, Florida Canyon, and AIT Technologies, and our Silver Sponsor was Orla Mining. We also extend our gratitude to Ogi on the Green for catering a delicious lunch and to the Spring Creek Golf Course for hosting and helping us reschedule the tournament. Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this event—your contributions help make outdoor education in Nevada possible!

June 16–20 | Summer Camp Training  

Summer Camp Training at Nevada Outdoor School was filled with hands-on learning and meaningful connections. A highlight of the week was a special visit from Jorge and his team at Renown Children’s Hospital, who led a “Stop the Bleed” training, equipping our AmeriCorps members with important emergency response skills. In addition, all participating AmeriCorps members became certified as Level 1 Leave No Trace Trainers, empowering them to lead LNT Awareness Workshops throughout the summer and within our communities. The training also offered plenty of time for team building and familiarization with the equipment and resources used during our summer camp programs, ensuring everyone is ready for a safe and successful season.

June 27 | Elko Bike Rodeo

On June 17th Nevada Outdoor School attended the Bike Rodeo at Adobe Middle School to promote bike safety for kids where we met with approximately 146 people. We had an RS2 booth and had a bike course model that the kids could play with while also learning some bike safety points and real life scenarios that could happen when out riding bikes or OHV’s, and how we can avoid or solve the situation. This event was hosted by Nevada Gold Mines and they provided free bike inspections, a bike course, helmet fittings, safety coaching and riding tips as well as free ice cream and face painting.

June 28 | Winnemucca Bike Rodeo

On June 28th, Nevada Outdoor School attended the Nevada Gold Mines Bike Rodeo in Winnemucca. Approximately 40 people attended the event, where NOS shared Ride Safe Ride Smart principles and helped educate families on the importance of bike safety. A helmet giveaway drawing added excitement, while both kids and parents gained a deeper understanding of why wearing helmets is essential—especially in Northern Nevada, where there is no Level 3 trauma center equipped to treat serious head injuries.

June 28-29 | Elko Family Camp

On June 28–29, Nevada Outdoor School hosted Elko Family Camp, bringing together four families for a weekend full of learning, laughter, and connection. With 11 enthusiastic participants, the group was fully engaged in all the camp activities. The highlight of the weekend was the lively campfire program, where everyone joined in on skits, sang the Milk Song together, and enjoyed s’mores while sharing stories and laughter. Campers spent their time bonding through arts and crafts, playing games, exploring the campground, and trying new things. The positive energy was contagious—everyone was in great spirits, eager to learn and explore. It was a joyful and memorable experience for all!

June | Nature in the Park

June marked a strong start to Nevada Outdoor School’s Nature in the Park (NITP) program! Designed for young explorers ages 4–7, this summer series blends outdoor learning with engaging stories and hands-on discovery. So far, participants have dug into archaeology, stomped through time with dinosaurs, and hopped into the fascinating world of amphibians. During the first week alone, nearly 100 children in Elko and Winnemucca joined the fun, building curiosity and connection with the natural world right in their local parks.