Delicious Summer Camp Recipes for Kids

Summer camp is not just about making friends and exploring the great outdoors; it’s also a time to enjoy delicious campfire cooking! Enjoy these yummy recipes, greate for campers of all ages!

1. S'mores Dip Made with campfire

There’s no summer camp without smores! The classic with a twist is a great treat for all ages. To make this dip you’ll need a cast iron skillet and the following ingredients:

• 1 cup chocolate chips

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• Graham crackers for dipping

Simply layer the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows in the skillet and place it over the campfire until the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows are golden brown. Serve with graham crackers for dipping and enjoy the taste of summer camp goodness!

2. Campfire Pizza Pockets Made with campfire

Everyone loves pizza, and why not enjoy that pizza while camping? These pizza pockets are a great way for everyone to enjoy their favorite personal pizza! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 package of refrigerated crescent roll dough

• Pizza sauce

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, veggies, etc.)

Roll out the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Spoon a bit of pizza sauce onto each triangle, add cheese and toppings, then fold the dough over and crimp the edges to seal. Wrap each pocket in foil and cook over the campfire until the dough is cooked through and the cheese is melted. Enjoy!

3. Grilled Banana Boats Made with grill

Another campfire classic that the entire campground is sure to enjoy! Here’s what you’ll need per banana boat:

• 1 banana, unpeeled

• Chocolate chips

• Mini marshmallows

Slice a banana lengthwise (without peeling it completely) and stuff it with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows. Wrap the banana in foil and place it on the grill. Cook until the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows are gooey. Unwrap and enjoy with a spoon! Get creative with your toppings, try strawberries, peanut butter, or even sprinkles!

4. Campfire Tacos in a Bag Made with campfire

This fun and easy meal is perfect for feeding a crowd at camp. Everyone is able to make their tacos to their individual preference! Here’s what you’ll need per taco:

• Individual-sized bags of Doritos or Fritos (or any bag of chips really)

• Cooked ground beef or shredded chicken

• Shredded cheese

• Lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, sour cream (optional toppings)

Crush the chips inside the bag, then add your choice of meat, cheese, and toppings. Mix everything in the bag and enjoy with a fork! It’s a tasty twist on traditional tacos that kids will love.

These kid friendly meals are perfect for appeasing campers of all ages. Simple, and easy to put together. Let’s get camping!

AmeriCorps Spotlight - Noah Doyle

Noah, an AmeriCorps member wrapping up his service at Nevada Outdoor School, gives insight into what he has learned throughout his service. Noah was born in California before moving to the Elko area at around four or five years old. He graduated from Spring Creek High School and went on to work various food service jobs before deciding that he needed a different path. He found AmeriCorps through a parent of a friend, whose child had also been an AmeriCorps member, and from there, he found a job that provided him with the opportunity to be a part of something more and to work with the community. Reflecting on his experience, Noah shared, “AmeriCorps is the opportunity to provide service for people. It’s an opportunity to be a part of a community and do more for your community than a retail or fast food service job ever could.”

One of the most significant personal growth areas for Noah has been leadership. Initially hesitant to take charge, AmeriCorps has given him the confidence to make decisions, such as ensuring the safety of campers during a lightning storm. This newfound assertiveness and leadership have been instrumental in shaping his goals post-AmeriCorps, where he envisions himself as an author or potentially a high school English and creative writing teacher.

For Noah, AmeriCorps has been transformative. It's not just about the tasks he undertakes but the impact he makes on young minds through programs like the Young Naturalist Club. One standout memory for Noah was organizing activities that encouraged children to explore temporary art forms, fostering creativity and curiosity outdoors. Noah talked fondly about the hard work he put into finding temporary art forms, and how much fun the kids had with the project. These experiences have not only enriched Noah’s time with AmeriCorps but have also left a lasting impression on the children he has mentored. 

Looking ahead to life after AmeriCorps, Noah is open to the opportunities that may come his way. He acknowledges that the program has been challenging at times, pushing him beyond his comfort zone, but ultimately rewarding. “You do a lot of hard work, but it's a lot of good work,” he affirmed, reflecting on the impact of his service on both himself and his community.

In closing, Noah mused, “I’ve struggled a lot through my life, and actually being able to do something that’s meaningful has been really powerful for me and has made me feel more confident in myself.” His journey with AmeriCorps has not only equipped him with skills and experiences but has also instilled in him a belief in the impact of service, a belief that is sure to follow him in his future goals and plans.

Exploring Northern Nevada: Top Camping Areas You Don’t Want to Miss

Lamoille Canyon, Nevada.

Northern Nevada is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of landscapes and camping experiences that cater to everyone from rugged adventurers to families seeking relaxation. Whether you're drawn to alpine lakes or vast deserts, this region has it all. Here’s a guide to some of the best camping spots northern Nevada has to offer.

1. Great Basin National Park

Near the Utah border, Great Basin National Park is a must-see spot for all nature lovers. The park boasts diverse camping options, from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites for the more adventurous. Great Basin Park is known for the ancient bristlecone pine forests, Wheeler Peak - the second-highest pearl in Nevada, and Lehman Caves - a great opportunity to see stalactites and stalagmites. There are opportunities to stay on developed campgrounds, such as Wheeler Peak Campground, in more secluded areas. Great Basin National Park does experience heavy snowfall in the winter, so the best time to visit is late spring to early fall. 

2. Lake Tahoe

While predominantly in California, Lake Tahoe’s northern shores extend into Nevada and offer some of the most picturesque camping spots in the area. Campgrounds like Sand Harbor and Spooner Lake provide easy access to hiking trails, beaches, and water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Summer and early fall are ideal for camping here, as the weather is mild, and the lake activities are in full swing.

3. Ruby Mountains Wilderness

Known as the "Alps of Nevada," the Ruby Mountains offer beautiful views and quiet solitude. Lamoille Canyon features several campgrounds surrounded by towering cliffs, alpine lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Campsites like Thomas Canyon and Terraces Campground are popular choices for hikers looking to explore the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail. Late spring through early fall is the best time to visit, although higher elevations may retain snow into early summer.

4. Black Rock Desert

Known for hosting the renowned Burning Man event, the Black Rock Desert features an expansive, playa-covered terrain ideal for secluded camping and stargazing. Primitive camping is allowed across large portions of the area, providing a rare chance to immerse oneself in the desert's beauty. The best time to visit is late summer and early fall when temperatures are milder, and the desert floor is dry enough for vehicle access.

5. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Including a majority of Nevada’s wilderness, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest offers countless camping opportunities amidst stunning mountain ranges and forests. Popular areas include the Toiyabe Range near Austin and the Jarbidge Wilderness, known for its wild rivers and abundant wildlife. Popular campgrounds include Angel Creek Campground near Wells, which provides access to fishing and hiking opportunities, and Wildhorse Campground near Elko. Camping seasons vary by elevation, but generally, mid-summer through early fall offers the best weather and accessibility.

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Northern Nevada’s camping spots are as diverse as they are beautiful, offering something for every type of camper and outdoor enthusiast. Whether you prefer the rugged terrain of the Ruby Mountains or the calm shores of Lake Tahoe, each destination promises unforgettable experiences and stunning natural beauty. Plan your visit and prepare to immerse yourself in the wilderness that northern Nevada has to offer.

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What's New at NOS - June 2024

Hey there, summer seekers! The excitement is in the air as we gear up for a season packed with adventure. This month we're prepping for summer camp, counting down the days to Nature in the Park events, and eager to hit the trails with the Backpacking Club, get ready for an epic summer ahead. Stay safe and get outside!

What's New at NOS - May 2024

Summer is here, and excitement fills the air! Last month, we immersed ourselves in outdoor adventures, learning to identify native plants, hosting the Fire and Ice Golf Tournament Fundraiser, and so much more! Now, with the sun shining bright, we're ready for more fun in the great outdoors. Join us as we embrace the season with open arms, ready for new experiences and unforgettable moments!

What's New at NOS - April 2024

Spring has sprung, and with it comes a burst of vibrant energy! And what better way to embrace the new season than by diving headfirst into outdoor adventures?

Here at Nevada Outdoor School, we've been eagerly awaiting this moment to reconnect with the great outdoors and share our passion for conservation and outdoor education. Over the past few weeks, we've been busy gearing up for an exciting lineup of activities, from immersive training sessions on Leave No Trace principles to engaging workshops on Hunter Education, and even delving into the fascinating world of plant identification!

What's New at NOS- March 2024

In this March's What's New at NOS we are show casing what our Winnemucca team did during Spring Break, partnership events and road shows! Check out the recap below to find out the details! 

On March 1st, 8 Elko Community members joined Meghan and Noah from Nevada Outdoor School at Elko’s Peace Park for the ‘Mountain: Rain or Snow? Weather Watchers’ workshop. Scientist Meghan Collins from Desert Research Institute couldn’t make it but provided valuable information and tools for the program. Meghan Strugell discussed rain, snow, and snowflake formation, while Noah shared insights on snowflake shapes and formation conditions. Participants used DRI’s Mountain: Rain or Snow? App to report weather information. Despite the lack of snow, attendees explored close-up photography with a macro lens and observed salt crystals. The workshop sparked a newfound interest in science and weather among participants.

Photo Caption: Participant using a macro lens to take photos of raindrops on vegetation

The Elko Sportsman's Expo was great for outreach! We had a booth at the convention center, Kindra and Noah had the evening shifts, while Leanna and Kaniesha had the morning shifts (3/2-3/3/2024). We helped youth make Tread Lightly! keychains with colorful beads. We also brought the NOS wheel of ethics for kids to spin and answer questions to get a sticker. We got a couple sign ups for the email send outs, and we had children who recognized us from prior lessons! The best part was how excited the kiddos were to spin the wheel. All in all, over the two days, we spoke to just over 500 people!

Photo Caption: NOS Booth at Sportsman Expo

On Monday, March 4th, the Winnemucca community was invited to join us at Vesco Park to make bug crafts out of beads and pipe cleaners and learn some cool facts about bugs. 3 families showed up and everyone enjoyed making their own bugs. Even though the weather was a bit cold, they still had fun and got to take home their crafts. Along with the bug facts, there also were some bugs preserved in resin for the participants to see - the scorpion and the cicada were the kids favorites. Overall, the craft went well for everyone and the event was a success.

Day 2 of Art in the park on March 5 at Vesco Park in Winnemucca focused on letters. AmeriCorps members William, Sedric, Noah worked with two families teaching them how to create bubble letters and adding dinosaurs and other cool ideas. Overall, it was a blast! The kids had fun with their drawings and everyone  got to spend quality time outdoors creating art together.

Winnemucca's weather cooperated, offering a lovely day for Art in the Park. Nevada Outdoor School members Toni, Sedric, and Noah C. shared the craft of Bottle Terrarium building with nine participants, adults and children on the 7th of March at James Kinney pond in Winnemucca. Community members were led through a step by step process of adding gravel, charcoal, and soil to their bottles. Afterwards they all added plants and decor to complete enchanting Terrariums. Overall the event was an enriching experience teaching the community creative ways to express themselves artistically while enjoying the outdoors.    

Photo Caption: NOS member Toni explaining the different layers of a Bottle Terrarium.

Photo Caption: Community participants creating Bottle Terrariums.

On Friday March 8th, Winnemucca community members were invited to participate in a hike up Winnemucca Mountain to the “W”. NOS members Noah C, Sedric, and William all attended the hike. We had an amazing turnout of 13 people with both individuals and families. The weather was perfect for the hike. We met the participants at Veterans Memorial Park and went over Leave No Trace principles and a basic plan of what we were going to do. The hike did take longer than expected but with a big group we kept the pace slow so everyone could stay together. Overall the hike went awesome and everyone had a great time.

Photo Caption: Participants of Hike to the W pose for a picture while on the hike.

On March 8th, NOS AmeriCorps members from the Elko Office held the inaugural Geocache Workshop at Elko Peace Park. Kaneisha led 22 enthusiastic participants in discovering the worldwide activity of geocaching. The workshop featured a geocache terminology quiz and a Geocaching 101 handbook created by Kaneisha, covering geocaching history and Leave No Trace principles. Noah and Leanna guided one group to find a hidden cache at Peace Park, while Kindra and Kaneisha helped the other group create their own geocache box. The workshop was a resounding success, with participants thoroughly enjoying the experience. Kaneisha, Noah, Kindra, and Leanna are excited to announce the upcoming hiding of NOS's very first geocache box and will share a video on social media about its location. 

Photo Caption: Participants searching for a geocache at Elko Peace Park

On the 12 day of March, Nevada Outdoor School partnered with NDOW for their annual Trout Release with Winnemucca's 5th grade students. Sixteen classrooms of students attended a series of exciting, educational, stations up in the picturesque Water Canyon. There they released trout that they've been raising in the classroom, learned about stream habitats, local birds, riparian areas, local wildlife, and electrofishing. NOS provided two engaging stations for the students, Camp Oh No! and Just Passing Through. Camp Oh No! taught how we can camp with our Leave No Trace principles to have the best possible experience while leaving the environment impact-free. Just Passing Through showed students how erosion occurs and how plants and responsible land use can reduce this impact. The event went well with all participants leaving with new learning experiences, impactful knowledge, and outdoor time. 

Photo Caption: Students learning about trout.

Photo Caption: NOS member Toni explaining Camp Oh No! To students.

 

On March 13, 2024, Elko had their STEM fair and family night. It was a good turn out with plenty of children of all ages curious about Nevada Wildlife. With over 200 kids present, NOS AmeriCorps Outdoor Educators, Kindra and Leanna explained to the kids how elk see, some children loved the elk vision glasses and they were shocked to find out a big animal such as an elk was considered prey. Some children were very frightened to find out that NOS had a real elk pelt. Kids were also very excited for the CTIC booth where they could color and make their own pins.

On Saturday, March 16th, NOS AmeriCorps members went to Battle Mountain to help NDOW and the school district clean up the duck pond next to the high school. There was a really good turnout of volunteers, including a lot of highschoolers there for community service hours. At the start, members were pulling weeds from around the pond until NDOW got their skid steer going. The members then helped throw tree trimmings into a dumpster filled by raking and bagging leaves. Overall, it was an amazing event helping clean up a community pond and making it more accessible. 

Early on Friday, March 29th, 5 students joined NOS Members Meghan, Noah D, and Kindra at Mountain View Park for the first Ride Safe, Ride Smart camp of 2024! This day camp led students through the importance of T.R.E.A.D Lightly principles, and actions people can take in order to protect themselves and others while riding ATVs! The day camp included a lot of fun activities from running games to arts and crafts! Overall, the youth involved each learned valuable information that they’ll be able to carry throughout their lives and help protect themselves and others around them! 

On March 29th, Winnemucca AmeriCorps members Noah C, Sedric Zimmerman, and William Neff organized a community geocaching workshop at Pioneer Park. They introduced geocaching, outlined the day's plan, and emphasized Leave No Trace principles. Participants explored various locations around town, using hints to locate hidden caches, signing logs, and returning them. The event was highly successful, introducing many to the outdoor adventure of geocaching and promoting outdoor activity. 

Over Easter weekend, NOS AmeriCorps Outdoor Educator William and Executive Director Melanie Erquiaga promoted NOS’s Ride Safe, Ride Smart Program and the Nevada OHV Youth Helmet Program at Sand Mountain Recreation Area near Fallon. With support from various organizations, they distributed 36 free youth helmets and engaged with over 100 people about responsible OHV recreation. Despite the weather, it was a valuable opportunity to advocate for safe OHV practices in Nevada.