Earlier this month, we gathered for our annual family campout through Outdoor Connections—and it was a powerful reminder of why this work matters.
For many participating families, simply spending unhurried time outdoors is a rare opportunity. Along the river, kids and adults spent the day splashing in the water, jumping from rocks, and enjoying the kind of connection that comes from slowing down and being together in nature.
As the sun went down, the bonfire became the heart of camp. Families gathered for s’mores, played games, and connected under a sky full of stars. The next morning, a guided nature reflection invited everyone to slow down and observe the landscape more closely, opening the door to conversations about stewardship and current threats to our public lands.
These moments are exactly what Outdoor Connections is designed to create. By reducing barriers to outdoor access, we’re not only creating meaningful experiences—we’re helping foster confidence, belonging, and lasting connections to nature that can inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
Click HERE to learn more about Outdoor Connections.