Outside Guide: Why Time Outdoors Matters at Every Stage of Life

 

Spending time outdoors isn't just a fun way to pass the day, it's an investment in your health, happiness, and overall well-being. Whether you're exploring a local park, tending a garden, hiking a trail, or simply enjoying your morning coffee outside, nature has something to offer everyone.

At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe there is no age limit on outdoor adventure. From a child's first nature walk to a retiree's afternoon stroll, time spent outside provides lifelong benefits for the body, mind, and spirit.

Early Childhood: Building a Foundation for Learning

For young children, the outdoors is one of the best classrooms. Nature encourages curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning in ways that can't be replicated indoors.

Outdoor play helps children:

• Develop balance, coordination, and motor skills.
• Build confidence by exploring and solving problems.
• Strengthen social skills through cooperative play.
• Foster creativity and imagination.
• Create healthy habits that can last a lifetime.

Simple activities like looking for insects, collecting leaves, or splashing in puddles help children develop a lasting appreciation for the natural world.

School-Age Youth: Growing Through Adventure

As children grow, outdoor experiences continue to support healthy development. Hiking, biking, camping, and nature-based learning encourage independence while teaching responsibility and stewardship.

Time outdoors helps youth:

• Stay physically active.
• Improve focus and concentration.
• Build teamwork and communication skills.
• Develop resilience by overcoming challenges.
• Gain a deeper understanding of local ecosystems and wildlife.

Outdoor adventures also provide opportunities to disconnect from screens and reconnect with family, friends, and nature.

Teens: Finding Confidence and Connection

The teenage years can be busy and stressful. Spending time outside offers a healthy way to recharge while building confidence and independence.

Whether it's hiking with friends, fishing, mountain biking, volunteering on a stewardship project, or simply relaxing in nature, outdoor experiences help teens:

• Reduce stress and anxiety.
• Strengthen leadership skills.
• Build self-confidence.
• Develop a sense of responsibility for the environment.
• Create meaningful friendships through shared experiences.

Nature provides space to reflect, grow, and discover new passions.

Adults: Recharging Mind and Body

Between work, family, and daily responsibilities, it can be difficult to make time for the outdoors. Fortunately, even short periods outside can make a difference.

Adults who spend time outdoors often experience:

• Reduced stress.
• Improved mood.
• Increased physical activity.
• Better sleep.
• Stronger connections with family and friends.

Whether it's gardening, walking the dog, attending a community event, golfing, or exploring a nearby trail, every moment outside contributes to a healthier lifestyle.

Older Adults: Staying Active and Connected

Nature continues to offer important benefits later in life. Gentle outdoor activities help maintain mobility while creating opportunities for social interaction and lifelong learning.

Time outdoors can help older adults:

• Improve balance and flexibility.
• Support heart health.
• Reduce feelings of loneliness.
• Boost mental well-being.
• Stay engaged with family and the community.

Activities like birdwatching, nature photography, gardening, and walking are enjoyable ways to remain active while appreciating the beauty of each season.

The Benefits Never Stop

No matter your age, spending time outdoors supports every aspect of wellness.

Physical Benefits

• Increased physical activity
• Improved cardiovascular health
• Better balance and coordination
• Increased vitamin D exposure
• Healthier sleep patterns

Mental Benefits

• Reduced stress
• Improved focus and concentration
• Enhanced creativity
• Greater emotional resilience

Emotional Benefits

• Improved mood
• Greater sense of calm
• Increased confidence
• Stronger appreciation for the natural world

Social Benefits

• Stronger family relationships
• New friendships
• Community involvement
• Shared memories through outdoor experiences

Every Minute Counts

You don't need to climb a mountain or spend an entire weekend camping to experience the benefits of nature. Small moments outdoors can have a lasting impact.

Try spending just 15 to 30 minutes outside each day. Take a walk after dinner, visit a local park, eat lunch outdoors, work in the garden, or explore a trail you've never visited before.

Every moment spent outside is an opportunity to learn, grow, connect, and recharge.

At Nevada Outdoor School, our mission is to inspire exploration, stewardship, and lifelong connections to the outdoors. No matter your age or experience level, there's always a reason to step outside.

Because when it comes to spending time outdoors, you're never too young, or too old, to start your next adventure.

Outside Guide: How to Plan a Multi-Generational Outdoor Adventure

 

Bringing multiple generations together outdoors, grandparents, parents, and kids, can create some of the most meaningful shared experiences. But it also takes a bit of planning to make sure everyone feels comfortable, included, and excited to participate.

Here’s how to plan an outdoor adventure that works for all ages.

Choose an Accessible Destination

Start with a location that is easy for everyone to reach and navigate. Look for:

• Short, well-maintained trails
• Minimal elevation gain
• Rest areas like benches or picnic spots
• Nearby parking and restroom access

State parks, local nature areas, and scenic lakes are often great options for mixed-age groups.

Keep the Pace Flexible

One of the most important parts of a multi-generational trip is slowing down. Plan for a relaxed pace that allows:

• Frequent breaks
• Time for observation and storytelling
• Flexibility if someone wants to turn back early

The goal isn’t distance, it’s shared experience.

Plan for Comfort and Safety

Different ages have different needs outdoors. Be prepared with:

• Plenty of water and snacks
• Layered clothing for changing weather
• Sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Basic first aid supplies
• Comfortable seating options for breaks

A comfortable group is a happy group.

Include Everyone in the Experience

Make the adventure interactive for all ages:

• Kids can lead nature scavenger hunts
• Adults can help with navigation or cooking
• Grandparents can share stories or knowledge of the land

Shared roles help everyone feel involved and valued.

Choose Simple, Shared Activities

Not every outdoor adventure needs to be physically demanding. Try:

• Easy hiking or nature walks
• Fishing or shoreline exploration
• Picnic lunches outdoors
• Birdwatching or wildlife spotting
• Nature journaling or photography

Simple activities often lead to the most meaningful connections.

Build in Time to Rest and Connect

Some of the best moments happen during downtime. Encourage the group to:

• Sit together and enjoy the surroundings
• Share stories or memories
• Watch wildlife or changing weather
• Enjoy a shared meal outdoors

These pauses are where memories are often made.

Be Flexible and Read the Group

Every family is different. Pay attention to energy levels and be willing to adjust plans. It’s okay to shorten a hike, extend a picnic, or shift activities based on how everyone is feeling.

Focus on Connection Over Completion

A successful multi-generational outdoor adventure isn’t measured by miles traveled or peaks climbed, it’s measured by time shared, laughter, and connection to both people and place.

At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe the outdoors is for everyone, and when generations come together outside, those experiences become lasting family stories.

Start simple, stay flexible, and enjoy the time together outside.

Outside Guide: How to Navigate Without a GPS

Modern GPS tools have made it easier than ever to find your way outdoors, but knowing how to navigate without technology is still an essential outdoor skill. Whether you’re hiking in remote Nevada backcountry, leading a youth group, or simply exploring a local trail, traditional navigation builds confidence, awareness, and safety in the outdoors.

Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate when screens and signals aren’t available.

Start with a Map and Compass

A topographic map and a baseplate compass are the foundation of traditional navigation. A map shows you the landscape; trails, rivers, elevation changes, and landmarks, while a compass helps you orient yourself and travel in a consistent direction.

Before heading out, take time to:

• Identify your starting point and destination
• Note major landmarks along your route
• Understand elevation changes and terrain features
• Practice orienting your map to match the landscape around you

Once your map is aligned with the real world, it becomes much easier to understand where you are and where you need to go.

Learn to Read the Landscape

Navigation isn’t just about tools, it’s about observation. The land itself offers constant clues.

Look for:

• Mountain ridgelines and valleys to maintain direction
• Rivers and streams as natural guides
• Distinctive rock formations or tree lines
• Trail junctions and man-made markers

Training your eyes to notice these features helps you stay aware of your position even when trails are faint or unmarked.

Use the “Handrail” Method

A helpful technique is following natural or obvious boundaries, often called “handrails.” These include features like rivers, fences, ridgelines, or trails that run in a consistent direction.

By traveling alongside a handrail, you reduce the chance of wandering off course and create a reliable reference point throughout your journey.

Estimate Distance and Time

Without GPS, it’s important to track how far you’ve traveled. You can estimate distance using:

• Time traveled at a steady pace
• Terrain difficulty (flat vs. steep)
• Known trail distances from your map

A general rule: most hikers travel about 2–3 miles per hour on moderate terrain, but this can vary widely depending on conditions.

Practice Basic Compass Skills

Even simple compass skills can make a big difference:

• Taking a bearing (setting a direction to travel)
• Following a bearing over distance
• Backtracking to a known location

Practicing these skills before heading into remote areas builds confidence and reduces risk.

Don’t Forget Natural Navigation Clues

If you ever find yourself without tools, nature still offers direction:

• The sun rises in the east and sets in the west
• Moss may grow more heavily on shaded sides of trees (not always reliable, but sometimes helpful)
• Wind patterns and weather shifts can provide context for orientation

These should be used as supportive clues, not primary navigation methods, but they can help when combined with observation.

Stay Calm and Stop Early if Unsure

One of the most important navigation skills is knowing when to pause. If you’re unsure of your location, stop moving immediately. Take time to:

• Re-orient your map
• Look for recognizable landmarks
• Retrace your steps if needed

Most navigation errors happen when people keep moving while uncertain.

Practice Before You Need It

Like any outdoor skill, navigation improves with practice. Start on familiar trails, then gradually challenge yourself with more complex terrain. The more you practice, the more natural map reading and compass use become.

At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe navigation skills are part of building confident, capable outdoor stewards who can safely explore and appreciate the natural world.

Because when you know how to find your way, the outdoors opens up in a whole new way. 

What's New at NOS! June 2026

June marked the start of an exciting summer season for Nevada Outdoor School, with youth and families across northern Nevada embracing opportunities to learn, explore, and connect with the outdoors. From day camps and overnight adventures to community events, stewardship projects, and Nature in the Park programs, participants discovered new places, built lasting friendships, and developed a deeper appreciation for the natural world. None of these experiences would be possible without the support of our dedicated staff, volunteers, community partners, sponsors, and the families who continue to make outdoor learning a priority. Here's a look back at the adventures, milestones, and memories that made June such a remarkable month.

June 1-5 | Elko Explorers Day 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.


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 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 15-18 | Elko Adventure Camp 1

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 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 25 | Summer Camp with the City of Elko

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 26 | NGM Bike Rodeo in Elko

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 29 | Elko 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 29 | Water Canyon Day Camp

On June 29, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Winnemucca Day Camp with three campers enjoying a beautiful day outdoors. Throughout the camp, participants learned about trout and aquatic ecosystems, practiced Leave No Trace principles, and explored outdoor essentials and hand-signal communication skills. Campers also spent time nature journaling and hiking the Interpretive Trail, encouraging observation and connection with the natural world. The day concluded with several memorable activities, including a fun “bogus awards” celebration, a necklace bead craft, and ice cream, making for a rewarding and enjoyable outdoor experience.

June 30 | Lamoille Day Camp

On June 30, Nevada Outdoor School hosted an Elko Lamoille Day Camp, giving campers the opportunity to explore the outdoors while building confidence and essential outdoor skills. The day began with campers creating their own camp names before heading out on a hike through the beautiful Lamoille Canyon. Along the way, they learned the seven principles of Leave No Trace and why planning ahead, respecting nature, and staying on designated trails are important for protecting outdoor spaces. Campers also received hands-on instruction on how to use a water purifier and discussed why it is an essential tool for safe camping adventures. To round out the day, they learned about the different species of trout that call Lamoille Canyon home. Through a combination of exploration, education, and fun, campers left with new knowledge, lasting memories, and a deeper appreciation for Nevada's natural landscapes.

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 | 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.

Destination Recreation: Family-Friendly Trails with Shade and Water Access in Northern Nevada

Northern Nevada is full of wide-open spaces, mountain views, and endless opportunities to explore outdoors, but when hiking with kids, choosing the right trail can make all the difference. Families often need more than just a scenic route. Access to shade, nearby water, manageable distances, and engaging surroundings can turn an ordinary outing into a successful adventure for all ages.

At Nevada Outdoor School, we encourage families to spend more time outdoors by making recreation approachable, fun, and accessible. Whether introducing young children to hiking for the first time or searching for a new weekend adventure, Northern Nevada offers several family-friendly trails with a mix of shade, water features, and easy-to-moderate terrain.

One popular option is Hunter Creek Trail, located just outside of Reno. This well-loved trail offers families a rewarding destination with a scenic waterfall that creates a memorable turnaround point for hikers. While the full trail can be more challenging, many families with older children choose to hike only a portion of the route, allowing kids to enjoy creek access, wildflowers, and beautiful mountain views without overextending themselves. Starting early in the day is recommended, as some sections have limited shade and temperatures can rise quickly.

For younger hikers or families looking for a shorter and more shaded experience, the trails near Galena Creek Regional Park are an excellent choice. The area features forested paths, creek access, and cooler temperatures thanks to abundant tree cover. Families can enjoy a slower pace while children explore nearby water, observe wildlife, and learn about the natural environment. The nearby visitor center and picnic areas also make this location convenient for families with small children or first-time hikers.

Another great option is Thomas Creek Trailhead, which offers a quieter setting with flexible hiking distances. Families can customize their outing by choosing shorter out-and-back routes depending on their children’s age and energy levels. The nearby creek adds an extra element of exploration and helps keep children engaged throughout the hike.

Not every family outing needs to involve steep climbs or rugged trails. The walking paths along the Truckee River Walk near Idlewild Park provide a more relaxed outdoor experience with paved pathways, river access, and plenty of shaded areas. This destination is especially well-suited for families with toddlers, strollers, or those looking for a lower-commitment adventure while still spending meaningful time outdoors. Playground access and picnic spaces make it easy to turn a short walk into a full afternoon outing.

When hiking with children, preparation can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Starting with shorter distances and building endurance over time helps children develop confidence on the trail. Packing extra snacks, water, layers, and sun protection is essential, especially in Nevada’s high desert climate. Families should also plan for plenty of breaks and allow time for exploration, as children are often more interested in discovering tracks, plants, birds, and rocks than reaching a specific destination quickly.

Family hikes also create opportunities to teach outdoor stewardship. Practicing Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics principles helps ensure these spaces remain healthy and accessible for future visitors. Teaching children to stay on designated trails, pack out trash, respect wildlife, and leave natural objects where they are found can help foster lifelong habits of environmental responsibility.

Northern Nevada offers countless opportunities for family recreation, and finding the right trail can help create positive outdoor experiences for hikers of all ages. Trails with shade and water access make adventures more comfortable, engaging, and accessible, especially for younger explorers. At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe time spent outdoors builds confidence, curiosity, and connection to the natural world. Grab a daypack, lace up hiking shoes, and explore one of Northern Nevada’s family-friendly trails this season. Your next adventure may be closer than you think.

Outside Guide: Campfire 101: Cooking, Safety, and Ethics

There’s something timeless about gathering around a campfire. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows after a long hike, cooking dinner under the stars, or simply enjoying the warmth on a cool Nevada evening, campfires often become the centerpiece of outdoor adventures. But with that tradition comes responsibility. At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe every outdoor enthusiast should know how to build, use, and extinguish a campfire safely while minimizing their impact on the natural world.

Before You Build: Know the Rules

Before striking a match, always check local fire restrictions and weather conditions. Nevada’s dry climate and unpredictable winds can turn a small flame into a major wildfire risk in minutes. Campfires may be prohibited during certain times of the year or in areas with elevated fire danger.

Research the regulations for the land you’re visiting, whether it’s managed by the Bureau of Land Management, United States Forest Service, or a state park. If fires are allowed, use existing fire rings whenever possible rather than creating a new impact on the landscape.

Campfire Safety Basics

A safe campfire starts with thoughtful preparation. Choose a location at least 15 feet away from tents, shrubs, trees, and other flammable materials. Clear the area around your fire ring of dry grass, leaves, and debris.

Keep these essentials nearby:

• Water
• A shovel
• Dirt or sand for emergency suppression

Build fires only as large as needed. A towering bonfire may look impressive, but smaller fires are safer, easier to manage, and require less wood.

Never leave a campfire unattended, not even for a moment. Fires should always have an adult or responsible individual monitoring them until they are completely extinguished.

Campfire Cooking Tips

Cooking over a campfire can be one of the most rewarding parts of camping. The key is preparation.

Bring:

• A cast iron skillet or Dutch oven
• Long-handled utensils
• Heat-resistant gloves
• Foil for simple packet meals

Easy beginner campfire meals include:

• Foil packet dinners with vegetables, potatoes, and protein
• Hot dogs or sausages roasted over coals
• Grilled sandwiches in a pie iron
• Dutch oven chili, soup, or cobbler

For best results, cook over hot coals instead of active flames. Flames burn unevenly and can quickly char food, while coals provide steady, consistent heat. If you’re cooking a full meal, allow your fire to burn down before starting.

Firewood Ethics: Burn Responsibly

Where your firewood comes from matters. Transporting wood from home or across regions can spread invasive insects and tree diseases.

Instead:

• Buy local firewood near your campsite
• Gather only dead and down wood where permitted
• Never cut live branches or damage standing trees

Burn wood completely to ash whenever possible.

Putting Out Your Fire the Right Way

A campfire is not out when the flames disappear. Hidden embers can stay hot for hours and reignite later.

To properly extinguish a fire:

1. Pour water over the fire slowly until hissing stops.
2. Stir ashes, coals, and remaining wood with a shovel or stick.
3. Add more water and stir again.
4. Feel for heat (carefully) before leaving.

Your fire should be cool enough to touch before you walk away.

Practice Leave No Trace

Campfires are part of outdoor tradition, but they also leave lasting impacts if not managed carefully. Following Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics principles helps protect the places we all enjoy.

Remember:

• Use existing fire rings
• Keep fires small
• Burn only natural materials
• Pack out trash and leftover food
• Fully extinguish all fires

A well-managed campfire creates memories—not scars on the landscape.

Final Thoughts

Campfires connect people to the outdoors in a unique way, offering warmth, comfort, and a place to gather. By understanding fire safety, ethical firewood use, and responsible cooking practices, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy this tradition while protecting Nevada’s wild spaces for future generations.

At Nevada Outdoor School, we encourage everyone to adventure responsibly, build confidence outdoors, and leave every campsite better than they found it. Happy camping, and stay safe around the fire.

AmeriCorps Member Spotlight: Caleb Roche

At Nevada Outdoor School, our AmeriCorps members are at the heart of inspiring exploration and stewardship. Today, we’re excited to highlight Caleb Roche, an AmeriCorps Member serving in Elko, Nevada.

Meet Caleb

Originally from Carson City, Nevada, Caleb has experienced life in a variety of places, including Spring Creek, Nevada; Cambridge, New York; and Bennington, Vermont, before settling in Elko. These diverse experiences have helped shape his perspective and passion for the natural world.

Finding AmeriCorps

Caleb first learned about the AmeriCorps program through coworkers who encouraged him to apply. Drawn to the opportunity to educate others, he saw the program as a meaningful way to help people better understand the environment and their role in protecting it.

Since joining in March 2026, Caleb has embraced his role as both an educator and a learner.

What AmeriCorps Means to Caleb

To Caleb, AmeriCorps is about connection and awareness. It’s a way for people to learn more about the world around them and understand how their actions impact the environment, community health, and beyond. He sees education as a powerful tool for positive change.

Personal Growth Through Service

Serving as an AmeriCorps member has had a profound impact on Caleb’s life. He shares that the experience has helped him become healthier, both physically and mentally. Spending more time outdoors and staying active has improved his well-being and strengthened his connection to nature.

Making a Difference in the Community

Caleb is passionate about the impact he’s making in his community. Through education programs, he works with both youth and adults to build awareness about environmental responsibility. By creating fun, engaging experiences, he helps people connect emotionally to the lessons being taught, making those lessons more meaningful and lasting.

A Favorite Memory

One of Caleb’s favorite parts of serving is playing educational games with students. These activities bring learning to life, allowing kids to have fun while gaining a deeper understanding of the natural world and their role in protecting it.

Looking Ahead

After completing his AmeriCorps service, Caleb plans to pursue a career in conservation. He hopes to make a lasting impact on wildlife and natural spaces, while also helping shift perspectives about the importance of protecting our environment.

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Caleb’s journey is a great reminder of the powerful role AmeriCorps members play, not only in their communities, but in their own lives. We’re grateful to have him as part of the Nevada Outdoor School team and look forward to seeing the impact he continues to make.