Mendocino Outdoor
Science Camp for Homeschoolers

 
 

The same great outdoor science school experience; days spent learning out on the trail, delicious meals in the dining hall, and evenings by the campfire—but geared for the whole family!

 The Mendocino Outdoor Science School is happy to tailor a week to the needs and interests of a group of home school families. Students are chiefly divided by age/learning level and are assigned to a naturalist for the duration of their visit. Each day the students are learning on the trail from 9:30 to 3:30. There are optional offerings, hikes or activities for adults. Later in the week we have a field trip to the coast to explore the tide pools and hike the coastal trails. Families are given free time that afternoon to explore the North Coast.

 Families stay in historic cabins located under the redwoods. The cabins are like big wooden tents with army cots and mattresses—no linens are provided. There is no electricity in the cabins and no cell service in many parts of the Woodlands State Park. Many people comment on how welcome it is to spend time away from technology. Although, service is available nearby and there are outlets in the dining hall to recharge batteries.

 Diets and food allergies are a real concern these days. The Woodlands is a nut-free facility but cannot claim to be free of cross-contamination. With advance notice the weeks menu can be adjusted to the dietary wishes of a group. If there are life threatening allergies, we suggest that families augment the menu by bringing suitable food. A refrigerator and microwave are available in the dining hall.

 Most homeschool families will attend as a group. Our minimum is 45 participants. The organizer and one child attend for free as long as the minimum is met. Here’s what some home school parents have to say about the program…

 

 

discovery-based curriculum

MOSS explores a new natural community each day. Field groups enjoy hands-on activities investigating the redwood forest, fresh water stream, rocky shore tide pools and estuary. The concepts of habitat, adaptation, energy flow, nutrient cycling and interdependence are highlighted and reinforced in each ecosystem.

 

community building

MOSS functions as a small community where each and every person is a valued member. All activities—learning groups, recreation time and meals—are structured to encourage cooperation. A 10-element Challenge Course poses a series of physical problems students must solve together as a team.