NOS Mission

Nevada Outdoor School inspires exploration of the natural world, responsible stewardship of our habitat and dedication to community.
This is the spot for us to share stories, fun ideas or general musings. When you aren't in here, we hope to see you out there!







Friday, March 14, 2025

What's New at NOS! February 2025

February was a month full of exciting events and educational opportunities at Nevada Outdoor School! From festive celebrations to outdoor adventures, we connected with community members of all ages through engaging activities that fostered learning, exploration, and fun. Whether it was spreading love at the Hearts & Hugs Festival, supporting pet adoptions at Paws for Love, enjoying s’mores under the stars, or encouraging young minds to explore nature through hikes and journaling, each event brought people together in meaningful ways. Read on to see how Nevada Outdoor School made the most of February with hands-on experiences that inspired curiosity, stewardship, and connection with the outdoors!

February 8th | Hearts & Hugs Festival

On Saturday, February 8th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the Hearts and Hugs Festival, welcoming approximately 215 participants of all ages. Partner organizations included Great Basin College, Mybrary, the Northern Nevada Museum, Communities In Schools (CIS), the Children's Cabinet, the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), and volunteer members from the Cinderella Pageant. The festival featured a variety of engaging activities, including a scavenger hunt, photo booth, love poster station, coloring station, hot chocolate, dancing and music, and Valentine’s Day treat bags. Despite the chilly weather, attendees enthusiastically participated and enjoyed the festivities.


February 14th | Paws for Love

On February 14th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted Paws for Love, a heartwarming event that brought together over 50 attendees in support of pet adoption and responsible dog ownership. With the help of volunteer youth groups, including the Cinderella Girls and the Lamoille Livestock Club, adoptable dogs were walked and showcased, leading to six successful adoptions. Animal professionals were on-site to educate attendees about safe dog hiking, training, and first aid. Guests captured memories at a fun photo booth with adoptable dogs, and each adopted pup received a homemade treat from Yum Yum Treats, adding a special touch to their new beginning. The event also fostered future partnerships, as Endless Pawsibilities joined efforts to collaborate on community hikes, ensuring ongoing support for pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts alike.


February 15th | S’mores & Sparks

On February 15th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted S’mores & Sparks, an evening of warmth, fun, and community. Fifteen participants gathered around two crackling fires to roast s’mores, enjoy drinks, and take home goodie bags and treats from the thank-you table. A pre-set s’mores station made for easy and delicious treats, while classic games like Corn Hole and Tic-Tac-Toe added to the evening’s entertainment. The highlight of the night was seeing everyone come together, relax, and enjoy a cozy and memorable outdoor experience.


February 21st | Bookworm Hike


On February 21st, Nevada Outdoor School partnered with the California Trail Interpretive Center, Mybrary, and the Children’s Cabinet to host the Bookworm Hike, an event designed to foster a love for both nature and reading. Twenty-two attendees joined the hike, ending the day with smiles on their faces and requests for the event to return. Participants enjoyed a diverse book exchange, featuring everything from children's books to fantasy novels, and had the opportunity to color their own bookmarks. The event also included a fun story time, where attendees listened to Our Incredible Library Book and the Journey It Took by Caroline Crow and The Long Book by Drew Dewalt.



February | Elko Young Naturalist Club

In February, Nevada Outdoor School wrapped up Session 2 of Young Naturalists: Snow School. Even though there was little snow this winter, students still had the opportunity to learn about snowflakes, why evergreen trees stay green, and the northern lights. Despite the bitter cold of Nevada winters, parents and students showed up eager to learn. Session 3 of Young Naturalists: Signs of Spring kicked off on the 28th, with nearly 30 children attending across the two sessions!

February | Winnemucca Nature Journaling

In February, Nevada Outdoor School engaged with 17 different classes, some combined under one teacher on the schedule, to teach students about plants just in time for spring. Kids loved learning about the life cycle of a flower and its importance in nature. They also discovered the five essential needs of a flower and how it absorbs nutrients to grow and thrive.










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