PEEC News:
Join the Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC) for its first-ever Nature Play Camping Trip Friday, May 23 through Saturday, May 24 at Ponderosa Campground in White Rock. This free, beginner-friendly overnight event is designed for families eager to explore the basics of camping while creating community and memories in nature.
This event is free and open to families with children, and registration is required. Overnight camping is optional. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Led by outdoor educator Izza Bello, known for her popular Monday Nature Playtime programs at PEEC, the event will include hands-on learning opportunities for both kids and adults. Families will learn how to pick a campsite, set up tents, and keep little ones entertained outdoors. Whether you’re a camping newbie or just looking for a stress-free way to get outside with your children, this event will provide a welcoming and educational experience.
What to Expect:
- Meet at 4 p.m. Friday, May 23 at Ponderosa Campground
- Set up camp, learn camping basics, and share dinner and s’mores around the campfire
- Optional overnight stay
- Light morning activities and an optional group hike on Saturday
- Wrap up and check out by 10 a.m. Saturday, May 24
Don’t have gear? No problem! PEEC has a limited supply of backpacks, tents, and sleeping bags available to loan. A gear list and prep tips will be emailed to registered participants one week prior.
Families are encouraged to bring a picnic-style dinner and breakfast. S’mores will be provided by PEEC. Camp cooking pros are invited to bring their setup to share tips and tricks with new campers!
“This camping trip is all about fun, connection, and low-pressure learning,” Izza Bello said. “We want families to feel empowered to explore the outdoors—whether this is your first night under the stars or your fiftieth.”
For more information, visit PEEC’s website. Stay connected on social media for updates on each week’s activities.
PEEC was founded in 2000 to serve the community of Los Alamos. It offers people of all ages a way to enrich their lives by strengthening their connections to our canyons, mesas, mountains, and skies. PEEC operates the Los Alamos Nature Center at 2600 Canyon Road, holds regular programs and events, and hosts several interest groups, from birding to hiking to butterfly watching. PEEC activities are open to everyone; however, members receive exclusive benefits such as discounts on programs and gift shop merchandise. Annual memberships start at $35. To learn more, visit peecnature.org/support/membership/.
