Business Details
50 Years
experience
Outdoor Science Education & Adventure Programs for Youth
Founded in 1976, we pioneered immersive outdoor science education to empower future leaders with curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence. Our mission remains rooted in the belief that hands-on exploration in Colorado's natural environment fosters transformative learning experiences. We offer programs blending science, adventure, and community for students of all ages, creating supportive environments where learning is both meaningful and memorable. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we leverage donor support and volunteer efforts to ensure accessibility, serving over 12,000 students annually through summer camps, field trips, and specialized STEM initiatives.Our 23-acre campus at 9,200 feet elevation provides a unique backdrop for environmental education, complemented by mobile programs across Colorado's ecosystems. With 50 years of experience, we maintain rigorous safety standards through ACA accreditation and specialized training in outdoor leadership. Our JEDI initiatives actively promote equity in outdoor education, while our alumni network demonstrates lasting impacts on participants' academic and personal growth.
Services
Summer Camps
Outdoor Education
Girls in STEM
Adventure Programs
Professional Development
H2O Outdoors
Day Camps
Field Trips
Scholarship Programs
Campus Rentals
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- 50 years of experience in outdoor science education
- American Camp Association accredited programs with proven safety standards
- Tailored programs for diverse age groups and educational needs
- Expert instructors with specialized training in outdoor leadership
- Commitment to equity through scholarship programs and JEDI initiatives
Associations and certifications
- American Camp Association
What people say
Growth in confidence
Connect with nature
Memorable learning experiences
Excellent role models
Annual tradition
Services
Outdoor Education
Our immersive environmental education programs combine hands-on science with outdoor exploration. Students engage in ecosystem studies, water quality testing, and geological investigations across Colorado's diverse landscapes. Programs align with state standards while fostering teamwork and environmental stewardship through experiential learning.
Summer Camps
Residential and day camps blend science education with outdoor activities for grades K-12. Themed programs include wildlife studies, STEM exploration, and leadership development through wilderness adventures. ACA-accredited programs emphasize personal growth, social skills, and nature appreciation in Colorado's mountain environment.
Girls in STEM
Specialized initiatives empower girls through science, technology, engineering, and math. Participants engage in wildlife research, film production, and water management projects with female mentors. Three-day to week-long programs combine career exploration with hands-on scientific investigation in natural settings.
H2O Outdoors
Three-day water science programs explore Colorado's aquatic ecosystems and water management challenges. High school students conduct field research on water policy, conservation, and careers through site visits and expert-led investigations of local water systems and infrastructure.
Professional Development
Three-day workshops equip educators with outdoor teaching methodologies and curriculum resources. Programs focus on integrating environmental science into classroom instruction through experiential learning frameworks and place-based education strategies for grades 4-12.
Questions
What age groups do your programs serve?
We offer programs for students from kindergarten through 12th grade, with specialized options for different developmental stages.
Are scholarships available for summer camps?
Yes, we provide financial aid through donations and partnerships, with applications available on our website.
What safety measures are in place for outdoor activities?
All programs follow ACA safety standards with trained staff, risk management protocols, and emergency response procedures.
Can schools customize field trip experiences?
Yes, our outdoor education programs are tailored to meet specific curriculum goals and group requirements.
How do you promote diversity in outdoor education?
Our JEDI initiatives include targeted scholarships, inclusive programming, and partnerships to increase access for underrepresented groups.
What is the counselor-to-camper ratio?
We maintain a 1:5 ratio for younger campers and 1:8 for older participants to ensure safety and personalized attention.
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