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.

Nevada Outdoor School extends a heartfelt thank you to NV Energy for their generous support of our programming. Their commitment to strengthening communities and promoting outdoor education has helped us deliver meaningful experiences across rural Nevada. Thanks to their partnership, we’ve been able to provide more families, youth, and community members with opportunities to learn, explore, and connect with nature. NV Energy’s support continues to play a vital role in helping us inspire stewardship and a lifelong love for the outdoors.