Summer is the perfect time to step outside, explore the wild, and make lifelong memories; and Nevada Outdoor School is excited to welcome campers of all ages to join us for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Whether you're eight years old or eighty-eight, our camps are built around the belief that time in nature helps us grow, learn, and connect. Our summer camps are designed with both safety and fun in mind. As much as we want campers to hike, laugh, build, and discover, our priority is that every participant feels supported, respected, and prepared.
When campers arrive at camp, they should be prepared to unplug and reconnect with the natural world. We do not allow campers to make phone calls home unless there’s a pre-arranged reason, such as a birthday. We’ve found that homesickness is often made worse by phone calls, and our goal is to help campers build confidence and independence in a safe and nurturing environment. Rest assured, if there’s ever a behavioral, medical, or other serious concern, our staff will contact families right away. And of course, in the event of a family emergency, we can coordinate early pickup through our Elko or Winnemucca offices.
What to pack is one of the biggest questions we get, and it depends on whether your camper is attending a day camp or an overnight camp. For day camps, a well-packed backpack should include a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, weather-appropriate layers, and a lunch if required. Overnight campers bring those same essentials plus a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, pillow, and one small bag of personal items. Everything should be labeled with the camper’s full name to help keep track of items during the excitement of camp life.
Equally important to what campers do bring is what they should leave at home. Camp is a place for discovery, and that means no electronics, weapons, unapproved medication, ignition devices, or extra snacks. We provide nutritious meals and snacks and have all the outdoor gear needed to have a great time. If your family doesn’t have access to certain gear like sleeping bags or pads, just let us know. We have a limited supply available for loan.
At Nevada Outdoor School, we focus on more than just fun; we emphasize responsibility and respect through our Three R’s: respect for self, respect for others, and respect for the environment and equipment. These values guide everything we do, and our behavior expectations are built around them. Campers will learn and practice our Action, Impact, Choice model, which helps them understand how their actions affect others and the world around them.
To foster a positive and inclusive environment from day one, each camp group creates its own Camp Agreement. This agreement is a set of group-created guidelines that focus on kindness, trying new things, supporting each other, and, most importantly, having fun. When campers help shape the culture of their camp, they take pride in it and are more likely to contribute positively.
Health and safety are essential to a successful camp experience. All campers must submit a Health History Form before attending. If your child takes medication, it should be handed over at check-in in its original container. Medications, including over-the-counter items, are not permitted in sleeping areas and will be managed by our trained staff. This helps ensure everyone stays safe and healthy throughout their adventure.
We know sending a camper to summer camp can bring up all sorts of questions and emotions; excitement, curiosity, and maybe a little nervousness. That’s normal, and we’re here to help. Our staff is happy to answer any questions leading up to camp and will do everything possible to make sure your child has a fantastic experience.
So lace up your hiking boots, pack your water bottle, and get ready. Camp at Nevada Outdoor School is about to begin, and we can’t wait to see you there.
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