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.

What's New at NOS! May 2026

May was a busy and impactful month for Nevada Outdoor School, filled with opportunities to connect people of all ages with the outdoors, build community partnerships, and inspire lifelong learning. From field trips and classroom programs to community events, volunteer outreach, and hands-on workshops, NOS staff and AmeriCorps members engaged hundreds of youth and adults across Nevada. Whether teaching outdoor ethics, promoting mental health awareness, exploring local history, or encouraging creativity through nature-based activities, each program helped advance our mission of increasing Time Spent Outdoors and fostering meaningful connections with the natural world.

May 5 | Flagview Day

On May 5, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a high-energy field trip day at Flagview, keeping AmeriCorps members busy with back-to-back classes from start to finish. Throughout the day, the team connected with more than 250 students, engaging with a variety of groups through active outdoor learning experiences. One highlight of the event was the exercise station, which kept students moving, energized, and fully involved in the day’s activities. AmeriCorps members also joined in on the fun by playing soccer and volleyball with participants, creating interactive opportunities for students to stay active, build teamwork skills, and enjoy time outdoors. The day was filled with movement, laughter, and hands-on experiences that encouraged youth to connect with one another while increasing their Time Spent Outdoors.

May 6 | Battle Mountain Day

On May 6, Nevada Outdoor School visited Battle Mountain Elementary School to deliver three back-to-back lessons for third grade students. With sunny weather and light winds creating an ideal environment, all three sessions ran smoothly and remained on schedule throughout the day. Students were highly engaged, actively participating in lessons and responding positively to activities and instruction. Supportive teachers helped ensure efficient transitions between classes, contributing to a well-organized and productive experience. During the visit, students were also introduced to upcoming Nevada Outdoor School day camp opportunities in Battle Mountain, which sparked excitement for future outdoor learning experiences. Each session concluded with a group photo alongside NOX, creating a fun and memorable closing moment for both students and teachers. Overall, the day was a successful delivery of NIMW programming, marked by strong engagement, organization, and enthusiasm from the entire school community.

May 7 | Safetalk Training

On May 7, all four AmeriCorps members and the Director at Nevada Outdoor School participated in a SafeTalk training and received their SafeTalk Certification. The training brought together around 20 participants, creating meaningful conversations and encouraging strong community connection throughout the day. Presenters were well prepared and guided participants through a variety of real-life scenarios using both presentations and hands-on activities. Attendees also received helpful resources and merchandise to continue supporting mental health awareness and suicide prevention efforts in their communities. Overall, the training was a valuable experience that strengthened communication, preparedness, and community support among participants.

May 7 | Outdoor Cooking with Mel

On May 7, Nevada Outdoor School team members from Elko traveled to Winnemucca for a SafeTalk training before gathering at the Winnemucca office for an evening of outdoor cooking and team building with Mel. Together, the group prepared lasagna, garlic bread, salad, and brownies while learning the fundamentals of Dutch oven cooking. Mel guided participants through important outdoor cooking skills, including how to light briquettes, determine the correct number to use, and safely manage cooking temperatures. While dinner cooked, the team played games that encouraged bonding and sparked ideas for future camp and program activities. The evening concluded with everyone sharing a meal together and working as a team to clean up before the Elko members returned home.

May 8 | Adventure Buddies

On May 8, Nevada Outdoor School hosted another exciting Adventure Buddies program with 17 energetic and enthusiastic participants. During the program, youth learned about different flowers and plants through a hands-on nature lesson that encouraged curiosity and discussion. Participants then created Mother’s Day flower crafts, using their creativity to design thoughtful gifts for their moms and families. The group was engaged and excited throughout the activity, making the day full of laughter, creativity, and meaningful conversations. Overall, the program provided a fun and welcoming space for youth to connect with nature, express themselves creatively, and celebrate the important people in their lives.

May 9 | Self Reliance Fair

On May 9, Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Self Reliance Fair in Battle Mountain, where the event brought out strong support and engagement from the local community. Throughout the day, the NOS booth connected with approximately 164 participants, providing opportunities to share outdoor education resources and upcoming summer programming. Using real outdoor gear and materials, NOS demonstrated the 10 Essentials and discussed the importance of preparedness and safety while recreating outdoors. Community members also learned about the upcoming Battle Mountain Day Camp and other Nevada Outdoor School summer camp opportunities. With beautiful weather and a welcoming atmosphere, the event created meaningful conversations and strengthened connections within the Battle Mountain community. Organizer Pam was especially supportive and took time to learn more about the 10 Essentials alongside participants.

May 15 | Little Choices Big Impact

On May 15, Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Little Choices Big Impact event with an interactive booth focused on bugs and insects. Throughout the event, NOS staff engaged youth in conversations about different insects, sharing fun facts and encouraging curiosity about the natural world. Participants played educational games that kept them active, excited, and involved while learning about nature and outdoor science. Many of the kids asked thoughtful and enthusiastic questions about bugs, showing a strong interest in the environment around them. Overall, the event created a fun and engaging learning experience that combined outdoor education, hands-on activities, and meaningful community connection.

May 15 | Terrarium Workshop

On May 15, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Terrarium Workshop that brought together 18 participants for an evening of hands-on learning and creativity. During the workshop, participants learned about the different layers that make up a terrarium and why each layer plays an important role in maintaining a healthy, balanced environment. The group used Fittonia, also known as nerve plants, which quickly became a favorite because of their vibrant colors and unique leaf patterns. To personalize their terrariums, participants selected from a variety of resin animals and crystals to add their own creative touch to each jar. The workshop also included instruction on proper terrarium care, including how to maintain the water cycle and keep the miniature ecosystems healthy over time. Overall, the event provided a fun and educational opportunity for participants to connect with nature through creativity and hands-on exploration.

May 18-21 | Flagview Field Trips

From May 18–21, Nevada Outdoor School worked with back-to-back field trip groups at Flagview, delivering engaging 20-minute lessons to classes throughout the week. Students were introduced to the seven Leave No Trace principles and learned simple ways they can help protect and care for the outdoors. Through the interactive Artifact Thief game, participants explored outdoor ethics while practicing teamwork and problem-solving skills. NOS AmeriCorps members adapted each lesson to fit different age groups, ensuring students remained engaged, involved, and excited to learn. By connecting with a large number of students over the course of the week, Nevada Outdoor School helped create a positive, energetic learning environment that encouraged outdoor stewardship and responsible recreation.

May 20 | Historical Walk through Winnemucca

On May 20, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Historical Walk through Winnemucca that brought together 11 community members for an engaging morning of local history and exploration. Participants enjoyed a presentation and guided tour from the Humboldt Museum, which highlighted all 14 stops along the route and provided fascinating insights into the area's past. Throughout the walk, attendees were actively engaged, asking thoughtful questions and sharing in meaningful conversations. Guests were welcomed with music during check-in and had the opportunity to enjoy snacks before and after the event. Four children also took home a special souvenir—a photo with Nox. With beautiful weather and enthusiastic participation, the event was a wonderful success, and many attendees expressed excitement about attending future Nevada Outdoor School programs.

May 20 | Winnemucca Mental Health Walk

On May 20, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Mental Health Walk at Lowry High School, bringing together students and community members for a meaningful event focused on wellness, connection, and awareness. The walk provided an opportunity to engage directly with a high school age group that is not often reached, allowing staff to connect with students in a supportive and positive environment. Throughout the event, Nevada Outdoor School promoted the Voyagers Camp, shared program information, and distributed merchandise to help increase visibility and interest in upcoming opportunities. The presence of additional vendors also helped strengthen community partnerships and expand outreach through shared exposure. Overall, the event helped build stronger connections with students, families, and community partners, while encouraging continued collaboration and participation in future Nevada Outdoor School programs.

May 30 | Volunteer Fair

On May 30, Nevada Outdoor School participated in a Volunteer Fair in Elko, where staff connected with more than 40 community members interested in giving back through volunteer service. Throughout the event, the team had meaningful conversations about NOS programs, opportunities to get involved, and the impact of AmeriCorps in communities across Nevada. A key goal of attending the fair was to recruit additional board members from the Elko area, and the event provided valuable opportunities to discuss local leadership and community engagement. Staff also shared the importance of outdoor experiences for Nevada youth, highlighting how time spent outdoors supports learning, confidence, and healthy development. These conversations led to several youth signing up for Nevada Outdoor School summer camps, making the event a successful opportunity to expand community connections and inspire more young people to get outside.

Unplugging into Nature

In a world where notifications never stop and screens are always within reach, it’s easy to forget what it feels like to truly disconnect. Social media, streaming platforms, and constant online engagement can leave both kids and adults feeling overwhelmed, distracted, and mentally drained. That’s why stepping away from the digital world and into nature isn’t just refreshing, it’s essential. And there’s no better place to experience that reset than at summer camp.

The Power of Unplugging

Taking a break from the internet and social media allows the mind to slow down and reset. Without the constant pull of screens, kids begin to notice the world around them in a deeper way, the sound of wind in the trees, the crunch of gravel under their feet, the rhythm of their own breath. This kind of presence is something that screens simply can’t replicate.

Unplugging also reduces stress and anxiety. Studies consistently show that too much screen time, especially social media use, can increase feelings of comparison, loneliness, and pressure. Time outdoors, on the other hand, has been linked to improved mood, reduced stress levels, and better overall mental health. Nature creates space for calm, reflection, and genuine connection.

Real Connections Over Digital Ones

When campers unplug, they open the door to meaningful, face-to-face interactions. Without phones, conversations become more authentic. Friendships form faster and often run deeper because they’re built on shared experiences, hiking a trail, cooking over a campfire, or working together to set up a tent.

These moments help build social skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Instead of communicating through a screen, campers learn how to read body language, solve problems together, and support one another in real time.

Building Confidence and Independence

Summer camp provides a unique environment where kids can try new things without the safety net of a screen. Whether it’s learning outdoor skills, navigating a trail, or participating in group challenges, campers gain a sense of accomplishment that boosts self-esteem.

Without the distraction of social media, there’s less pressure to “perform” or compare themselves to others. Kids are free to be themselves, take risks, and grow at their own pace. That kind of confidence sticks long after camp ends.

Reconnecting with What Matters

Unplugging helps campers reconnect, not just with nature, but with themselves. They begin to discover what they enjoy, what they’re capable of, and how they fit into the world around them. They learn to appreciate simple moments, like watching a sunset or sharing stories under the stars.

These experiences foster a deeper understanding of the outdoors and often inspire a lifelong respect for nature. At the same time, they help campers develop healthy habits around technology, learning that it’s okay (and beneficial) to step away.

Why Summer Camp Makes It Stick

Summer camp isn’t just a break from screens; it’s an immersive experience that replaces screen time with something better. From hands-on activities to outdoor adventures, every moment is designed to engage, challenge, and inspire.

By the end of camp, many kids don’t even miss their devices. Instead, they leave with new friendships, new skills, and a renewed sense of confidence and clarity.