AmeriCorps Member Spotlight: Roxy – Serving Her Hometown with Heart

Meet Roxy, an AmeriCorps member and outdoor educator with Nevada Outdoor School, serving in her hometown of Elko, Nevada. Born and raised in Elko, Roxy brings a deep-rooted passion for her community to everything she does. With a background in high school sports and a love for the outdoors, Roxy has found the perfect fit in her role connecting local youth with nature.

Roxy discovered the AmeriCorps opportunity while job searching on Indeed. The position stood out to her because it combined two of her favorite things: working with kids and spending time outside. Nearly six months into her term of service, Roxy has already made a big impact and gained valuable insight in return.

“In my own words, AmeriCorps is a great opportunity to serve your community,” she says. “It’s important because it provides so many different opportunities, not just for those serving, but for the community as a whole.”

Through her service, Roxy has developed a deeper understanding of what it means to give back. “It’s broadened my perspective,” she explains. “I’ve learned how important it is to help, and how much the community truly benefits from the work we do.”.

From teaching outdoor education programs to supporting events and activities, Roxy has been a key part of Nevada Outdoor School’s outreach. She notes that her favorite memories come from the gratitude she receives from the community: “Just seeing how thankful people are and how much they appreciate us, it’s incredibly meaningful.”

Roxy encourages anyone considering AmeriCorps to give it a shot. “It’s been a very eye-opening experience,” she reflects. “There were so many things I got to participate in. It’s a great opportunity to get involved and gain knowledge that will stick with you for life.”

As her AmeriCorps term winds down, Roxy is already looking ahead. She plans to attend Great Basin College to study radiology and earn her substitute teaching license so she can continue supporting local elementary schools.

Thank you, Roxy, for your dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to making Elko a better place to live, learn, and explore!

What's New at NOS! July 2025

July was a month full of sunshine, discovery, and outdoor adventures at Nevada Outdoor School! From the shores of Spring Creek Marina to the scenic trails of Water Canyon, our team brought engaging, hands-on experiences to kids and families across northern Nevada. With everything from Hawaiian-themed water play and pioneer fire-starting to geocaching, community service projects, and silly campfire games, each event fostered curiosity, built skills, and strengthened connections to nature. With the help of dedicated educators and enthusiastic participants, we made the most of the summer season—one camp, craft, and compass at a time!

Spring Creek Day Camp | July 1

On July 1st, Nevada Outdoor School brought the fun to the Spring Creek Marina for a Hawaiian-themed day camp. Twelve energetic campers joined in for a day packed with water games, colorful crafts, and hands-on learning about Leave No Trace principles. The camp ran smoothly with few to no issues, and every participant shared that they had a great time. It was a fantastic day of outdoor fun, learning, and laughter by the water!

Elko Adventure Camp 1 | July 7-10

From July 7–10, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the first Elko Adventure Camp of the season, bringing together 12 adventurous campers, 10 of whom stayed overnight, for a week of exploration and fun. Despite some strong winds that challenged the group’s camping experience, the kids showed incredible bravery and resilience. True to the spirit of adventure, a few eager explorers even found themselves stuck in the mud, requiring a helping hand from Outdoor Educator Bayley. Campers had a blast creating paracord bracelets and keychains, with many crafting multiple keepsakes. Evenings around the campfire were filled with laughter, vegan marshmallows, and rounds of the classic game telephone. A highlight of the week was geocaching; so much so that the group chose to keep hunting for caches rather than make their own.

Winnemucca Adventure Camp | July 14-17 

Twelve kids participated in Winnemucca Adventure Camp from July 14–17, with 11 staying overnight for the full camp experience. Throughout the week, campers took part in a variety of activities including geocaching, creek play, splash pad fun, crafts, and a meaningful community service project. They practiced navigation skills, explored their creativity, and learned the importance of giving back. A highlight of the week was the geocaching adventure, which sparked excitement and teamwork, while time spent at the creek and splash pad provided a fun way to cool off. Campers also made a positive impact by contributing to a local beautification project, helping improve shared community spaces with their time and effort.

CTIC Camp 1 | July 18 

CTIC Camp 1 on July 18 was packed with hands-on frontier fun for 14 campers! Participants explored traditional fire-starting methods and learned how pioneers built fires without modern tools. Orienteering was a hit, with kids using compasses to navigate like true trailblazers. Campers also got up close with animal pelts, discovering how fur-bearing animals played a crucial role in pioneer survival. Archery gave everyone a taste of frontier hunting skills, and the Trail Chores Relay Race brought lots of laughs and teamwork as kids hauled water, washed laundry, and raced to pack up our wagon.

Battle Mountain Self Reliance Fair | July 19

Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Battle Mountain Self-Reliance Fair on July 19th, where staff engaged with around 60 community members. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about survival techniques, including how to make snares and traps using a variety of materials—not just wire—demonstrating creative options for self-reliance in the backcountry. NOS also shared important Leave No Trace principles, helping participants understand how to minimize their impact while exploring and surviving in the outdoors.

Ward Mountain Pathfinders Camp | July 21-24

Nevada Outdoor School’s Pathfinder Camp at Ward Mountain from July 21st through July 24th, welcomed nine enthusiastic campers this summer. Each morning, the group was up early, eager to dive into the day’s planned adventures. Several campers were from Ely, which made for fun conversations about local favorites and must-see spots. The unofficial soundtrack of the week quickly became “Bye Bye Bye” by NSYNC, with campers breaking into song every ten minutes. While the weather stayed cooperative, the heat made it especially important to keep everyone hydrated and protected with plenty of sunscreen throughout the week.

Early Bird Expedition | July 25

On July 25th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted an Early Bird Expedition in beautiful Water Canyon, just outside Winnemucca. Five participants joined us for a peaceful morning hike under lovely weather conditions. The group enjoyed a scenic trek to the yurt, where a surprise treat of doughnuts was a hit with everyone. It was a refreshing and enjoyable outing, filled with great company, good views, and a sweet reward at the top.

Elko Explorers Camp | July 28-31

From July 28th to 31st, Nevada Outdoor School hosted our Elko Explorers Day Camp at Mountain View Park, welcoming an average of 22 to 25 enthusiastic students each day. Campers enjoyed a new theme and storybook daily—Dino Day, Wacky Wednesday, Under the Sea, and Superhero Day—each filled with engaging, themed activities that sparked creativity and curiosity. Wacky Wednesday brought extra smiles as kids showed off their wild outfits and silly hairstyles! With perfect weather and a popsicle treat before pickup each afternoon, it was a memorable week of learning and laughter in the outdoors.

Winnemucca Explorers Camp | July 28-31

Nevada Outdoor School’s Winnemucca Explorers Day Camp, held July 28–31, brought together eight excited campers, each eager to jump into the fun. Every day featured a new theme—Monday was Superhero Day, with campers arriving dressed as their favorite heroes; Tuesday was Water Day, filled with splashing and laughter; Wednesday was Wacky Wednesday, where wild outfits ruled the day; and Thursday was Dinosaur Day, complete with adventurous explorer hats. Each day offered new games the kids loved and creative crafts they proudly made. Conversations with the campers revealed their unique personalities, making it a joy to watch them fully embrace each day’s adventures with NOS.

July | Nature in the Park

What better way to start the morning than with a fun and engaging lesson at the park? This month, our young learners explored topics like dinosaurs, ants, camouflage, and Nevada State Symbols. During our Nevada State Symbols lesson, students even created Christmas ornaments that will be proudly displayed on the Capitol Christmas Tree later this year! The Elko office had the pleasure of teaching nearly 130 students, ranging in age from 2 to 10, throughout the month of July. It’s been a joyful, nature-filled summer, and we’re so grateful for the families and kids who joined us!

Meet Bayley Mason: Elko Native, Outdoor Educator, and AmeriCorps Member Making an Impact

At Nevada Outdoor School, we’re lucky to have a dedicated team of AmeriCorps members who bring energy, passion, and purpose to their roles. One of those inspiring individuals is Bayley Mason, an outdoor educator based in Elko, Nevada. Since joining us in February, Bayley has made a meaningful impact not only on our programs but also on the lives of local youth and families.

Rooted in the Community

Bayley was born in Coos Bay, Oregon but has called Elko home since she was four years old. A true local, she brings a unique perspective and deep connection to the area she serves. When her mom sent her a job listing for an AmeriCorps position with Nevada Outdoor School, Bayley saw it as a chance to do something new, spend time outside, and work with kids, something she’s always enjoyed.

“I was really excited to work outside all summer,” Bayley says. “This job looked to be a really good opportunity for new experiences and challenged my comfort levels.”

What is AmeriCorps?

In Bayley’s words, “AmeriCorps is a nonprofit service program on a national level. It covers many different branches of needs and experiences.” As an AmeriCorps member focused on outdoor education, Bayley spends her time increasing people’s connection with the outdoors and teaching them about their local environments. She believes this kind of education is essential.

“We will always be surrounded by the outdoors. Getting to learn how to keep our beautiful areas clean, how to navigate them, and understand everything inside of them is a priceless skill.”

Lessons Beyond the Lesson Plan

In just a few months of service, Bayley has already learned valuable lessons herself. She’s gained confidence, developed leadership skills, and mastered the art of flexibility, especially when working with young students.

“Anyone who has worked with kids knows how unpredictable anything can be, even if you plan every minute to a T,” she says. “Serving as a member has taught me how to keep a group of kids engaged and make sure they walk away having learned something new. It’s helped me believe in my ability to create lasting memories for them.”

Building Community and Inspiring Young Minds

Bayley’s impact is visible across the community. Students often recognize her when she visits schools, excited to see a familiar face and eager to participate in her engaging lessons. That recognition, she says, is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

“I get to help kids create good memories outdoors. When they remember what I taught them, it’s such an awesome feeling.”

A Moment That Stuck: Ride Safe Ride Smart in Logandale

One of Bayley’s favorite experiences so far was traveling to Logandale for Nevada Outdoor School’s Ride Safe Ride Smart education program. There, she helped distribute free helmets and educate families about OHV safety.

“The impact of our education was clear,” Bayley recalls. “We showed parents a map from Renown Children’s Hospital that highlighted trauma center locations across the U.S. Nevada stood out as completely empty, which shocked a lot of people. It really drove home the importance of safety and preparation.”

The trip was not only educational but also provided a chance to form new community connections and take in the stunning landscapes of Southern Nevada.

Advice for Future AmeriCorps Members

Bayley doesn’t sugarcoat the experience, it’s hard work, but it’s worth it.

“Being a member is a lot. You work long days and meet many new faces. But if you’re willing to step up to the challenge, it’s incredibly rewarding. You’ll make lifelong friends and grow in ways you didn’t expect.”

Looking Ahead

After completing her service, Bayley plans to use her AmeriCorps education award to begin her General Studies coursework and continue exploring what she wants to do next. With the skills and experiences, she’s gained through AmeriCorps, we have no doubt she’ll continue to make a difference wherever she goes.

Thank you, Bayley, for your service, your heart, and your dedication to outdoor education. You’re helping build a stronger, more connected community; one outdoor adventure at a time. 

A Special Thank You to NV Energy

Nevada Outdoor School would like to thank NV Energy for their generous support of our AmeriCorps program. Their continued investment in our mission makes it possible for members like Bayley to deliver high-quality outdoor education experiences across rural Nevada. Because of NV Energy, we are empowering the next generation of environmental stewards and community leaders. Thank you for helping us make a lasting impact.

Exploring Ward Mountain: A Summer Camp Adventure for Youth

Nestled just 10 miles south of Ely, Nevada, Ward Mountain stands as the highest peak in the Egan Range, reaching an elevation of 10,941 feet. This majestic mountain offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a variety of engaging activities, making it an ideal destination for youth summer camps.

Ward Mountain is a quintessential example of the Great Basin's high-desert terrain. The landscape features sagebrush, Great Basin wildrye, and bunch grasses, creating a vibrant, textured environment. In summer, wildflowers like Indian paintbrush and lupine add splashes of color, while higher elevations are home to pinyon-juniper woodlands that open up to sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and ranges. This transition in vegetation not only provides an opportunity to explore different plant communities, but also to observe local wildlife that inhabit these zones.

The Ward Mountain Recreation Area is well equipped for group camping, with shaded picnic tables, restrooms, and a campground that's both scenic and practical. While potable water is available during the warmer months, campers should plan ahead in the event it is turned off. For young adventurers, there’s no shortage of exciting ways to explore. Over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails wind through the area, with options for all experience levels. One of the standout features for educational engagement is the "Weeds of the Great Basin" trail, which features interpretive signs that introduce visitors to both native and invasive plant species. In the winter months, the trails also serve as excellent routes for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, although most youth camps will experience the area during the warm, dry season.

The area is steeped in history. Nearby, the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park preserves six well-preserved beehive-shaped ovens that were used in the late 1800s to create charcoal for silver smelting operations. These structures, built between 1876 and 1879, stand as unique and fascinating relics of Nevada’s mining boom. Not far from the ovens lie the remnants of the original town of Ward, which was once the largest community in White Pine County. Founded in 1872 during the silver rush, the town flourished until around 1880. Today, visitors can explore the foundations of smelters, mill sites, and a historic cemetery, giving young campers a chance to literally walk through history.

Ward Mountain offers many ways to engage youth with the natural world in fun and meaningful ways. Programs like Nevada State Parks’ Junior Ranger activities help campers learn about ecology, conservation, and public land stewardship. The diversity of the environment also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, bird watching, and nature journaling. Trails like the interpretive "Weeds of the Great Basin" route encourage curiosity and learning about the region’s ecology while on the move.

When planning a youth camp to Ward Mountain, preparation is key. The high-desert climate can shift rapidly from warm days to cool nights, so campers should pack accordingly. While exploring, it’s important to be cautious of potential hazards like old mine shafts in the area. Group leaders should ensure all participants are aware of safety protocols and practice Leave No Trace principles to protect this beautiful landscape for future generations.

Ward Mountain is more than just a scenic backdrop; it’s a place where young people can challenge themselves physically, expand their understanding of nature and history, and create memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a perfect destination for Nevada Outdoor School’s summer camp adventures.

Spring Planting Guide for Northern Nevada

Spring is an exciting time in Northern Nevada as the days grow longer and temperatures rise. However, gardening in this high-desert climate presents unique challenges, such as late frosts, dry conditions, and nutrient-poor soil. With proper planning and plant selection, you can cultivate a thriving garden suited to Northern Nevada's environment.

Understanding Northern Nevada’s Climate

Northern Nevada falls within USDA hardiness zones 5-7, meaning that gardeners must consider temperature fluctuations, low humidity, and limited rainfall. Spring can bring unexpected cold snaps, so it’s essential to be prepared with row covers or frost cloths to protect young plants. Additionally, raised beds or well-amended soil can help retain moisture and improve drainage.

Best Plants for Northern Nevada

The key to a successful garden in Northern Nevada is selecting plants that can handle the region’s dry climate and temperature variations. Here are some great options:

Vegetables: 

• Cool-Season Crops: These can be planted as soon as the soil is workable (March–April) and include lettuce, spinach, kale, peas, carrots, radishes, and beets.
• Warm-Season Crops: After the last frost (typically mid-May to early June), plant tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers, and beans. Consider short-season varieties for a better harvest.
• Perennial Crops: Asparagus and rhubarb can thrive in Northern Nevada with proper care.

Herbs: 

• Drought-tolerant herbs such as thyme, oregano, sage, rosemary, and lavender perform well in Nevada’s climate.
• Basil, cilantro, and parsley prefer some shade and consistent moisture.

Flowers:

• Drought-Resistant Perennials: Coneflowers, yarrow, Russian sage, and blanket flowers add beauty while requiring minimal water.
• Native Plants: Penstemon, arrowleaf balsamroot, and lupine attract pollinators and thrive in local conditions.
• Annuals: Marigolds, zinnias, and cosmos provide seasonal color and help deter pests.

Fruit Trees & Berries:

• Cold-Hardy Fruit Trees: Apples, cherries, pears, and plums do well if planted in a protected area.
• Berries: Raspberries, strawberries, and currants can succeed with proper mulching and watering.

Tips for a Successful Garden

Know Your Frost Dates: Late frosts can damage young plants. Keep an eye on forecasts and be ready to cover tender plants when necessary.

Improve Soil Health: Northern Nevada soil tends to be alkaline and low in organic matter. Add compost, aged manure, or peat moss to boost fertility.

Use Mulch: Mulching with straw, wood chips, or bark helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Water Wisely: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses work best in this dry climate.

Choose Wind-Resistant Plants: Wind is a common challenge in Northern Nevada, so selecting hardy plants or using windbreaks can protect delicate crops.

Encourage Pollinators: Bees and butterflies are essential for a productive garden. Plant flowers that attract these beneficial insects.

Be Patient: The growing season in Northern Nevada is shorter than in many other regions. Start seeds indoors when necessary and give plants time to establish.

By selecting the right plants and employing smart gardening strategies, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest despite Northern Nevada’s challenging conditions. Happy planting!

 

Nevada Outdoor School's Elko Young Naturalist Club: A Wildlife Adventure

Nevada Outdoor School’s Young Naturalist Club is back and better than ever! This exciting program, designed for students in grades K-2 and 3-5, offers five interactive sessions centered around the theme Wildlife Detectives. The sessions take place at the beautiful Elko Peace Park, providing the perfect outdoor setting for young learners to explore and connect with nature.

Program Details:

Grades K-2: 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Grades 3-5: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Each lesson in the Wildlife Detectives series is a unique opportunity for children to delve into the natural world, build their outdoor skills, and learn more about the incredible wildlife found in Nevada. 

Here’s a glimpse into the lessons:

Migration
In this engaging lesson, students discovered the incredible journeys animals take during migration and the obstacles they face, including power lines, pollution, predators, and traffic. Through a hands-on migration obstacle course, they experienced these challenges firsthand and explored how human actions like littering impact migration success. By emphasizing Leave No Trace (LNT) principles, the session inspired students to reduce waste and pick up trash in their communities, fostering stewardship for wildlife and their habitats.

Hibernation
This interactive lesson took students into the fascinating world of hibernation. They learned about Nevada’s native hibernating animals and their winter survival strategies, from stockpiling food to finding shelter. Discussions highlighted differences between hibernation, torpor, and brumation, while a fun relay race simulated the preparations animals make for winter. Students also explored how human activities can affect wildlife survival, reinforcing the importance of LNT principles to support healthy ecosystems.

Adaptations
In this dynamic session, students explored animal adaptations—the physical and behavioral traits that help animals thrive in their environments. Activities included matching animals to their adaptations, identifying suitable habitats, and playing movement-based games to reinforce the concepts. To conclude, students designed their own unique animals with randomly selected adaptations, creatively applying their newfound knowledge. By the end, participants could identify adaptations in various species and understand how these traits contribute to survival.

Tracks
Students became wildlife detectives in this lesson focused on animal tracks. They learned how to identify tracks, understand their significance, and discover the stories tracks tell about animal behavior and interactions. Hands-on activities included storytelling, plaster track observation, a matching game, and a choice between a "Prey and Hunter" game or a nature walk. By the end, students developed keen observation skills and a deeper appreciation for Nevada’s wildlife.

Skins & Skulls
In the final lesson, students explored the relationship between skull anatomy and diet by examining the characteristics of herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores. Hands-on activities included examining their own teeth, studying animal skulls, matching animals to their diets, and crafting teeth from modeling clay to replicate dental structures. These activities highlighted how anatomy is adapted to dietary needs, leaving students with a solid understanding of the connections between skull features and eating habits.

Making an Impact

Throughout the five sessions, a total of 35 young naturalists participated in the program, increasing their time spent outdoors while gaining valuable knowledge about Nevada’s wildlife. Thanks to the generous support of the NV Energy Foundation, Nevada Outdoor School was able to provide these engaging and educational experiences to the Elko community.

The Young Naturalist Club is more than just a program—it’s an opportunity for children to build a lasting connection with the natural world, learn how to protect it, and develop a sense of environmental stewardship. Stay tuned for future themes and sessions as Nevada Outdoor School continues to inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts!

How Outdoor Education Fosters a Spirit of Stewardship in Youth

In an increasingly digital world, connecting young people to nature is more important than ever. Outdoor education offers a powerful antidote to screen-heavy lifestyles, providing opportunities for hands-on learning, personal growth, and connection to the natural world. Outdoor programs play a vital role in fostering a spirit of stewardship in youth, inspiring them to care for the environment and take active roles in its preservation.

Why Outdoor Education Matters

Outdoor education goes beyond traditional classroom learning, bringing lessons to life in nature’s classroom. By engaging students in real-world experiences, it allows them to observe ecosystems firsthand, ask questions, and develop critical thinking skills. These experiences not only build knowledge but also nurture an emotional connection to the outdoors—a key ingredient for cultivating lifelong environmental stewardship.

Studies have shown that children who spend time in nature are more likely to value and protect it as adults. They’re also healthier, happier, and more resilient, thanks to the physical activity and mental health benefits that come with outdoor exploration.

Building Connections to Nature

Outdoor education programs help young people understand that they are part of something larger. Activities such as exploring local habitats, observing wildlife, and learning about ecological systems foster an appreciation for nature’s complexity and beauty.

For instance, a simple hike becomes an opportunity to discover the interdependence of plants, animals, and humans within Northern Nevada’s unique ecosystems. Students might learn about the vital role sagebrush plays in the Great Basin, or how pollinators like bees and butterflies sustain life. These lessons cultivate curiosity and respect for the environment, sparking a desire to protect it.

Hands-On Learning Inspires Stewardship

One of the most effective ways to inspire stewardship is through hands-on activities. Outdoor education programs often include projects like habitat restoration, tree planting, or water quality monitoring, allowing youth to make tangible contributions to their local environment. These activities empower students to see that their actions matter, instilling a sense of responsibility and pride in their ability to make a difference.

By practicing these skills, young participants not only learn how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly but also become ambassadors for sustainable recreation in their communities.

Leadership and Teamwork in the Outdoors

Outdoor education also develops essential life skills like leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Activities like group camping trips or collaborative trail cleanups teach students how to work together, communicate effectively, and overcome challenges. These experiences build confidence and a sense of purpose, encouraging youth to take on leadership roles in environmental conservation.

Instilling a Lifelong Commitment

The impact of outdoor education often extends far beyond childhood. By nurturing an early love for the outdoors, these programs lay the foundation for lifelong environmental awareness and activism. Many young people who participate in outdoor education go on to pursue careers in conservation, environmental science, or outdoor leadership.

Even for those who choose different paths, the lessons learned—respect for nature, the importance of community, and the power of individual actions—remain ingrained. They’re more likely to vote for environmental policies, volunteer for conservation projects, and pass their values on to future generations.