Fifth graders will spend an unforgettable week immersed in the wonders of nature at Exploring New Horizons Outdoor School in Loma Mar. Each day brings a new adventure — from hiking among towering redwoods and discovering salamanders beneath mossy logs to exploring tidepools under the shadow of the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse. Students learn science hands-on as they visit diverse ecosystems — the ancient redwood forest, oak and madrone groves, and the dramatic Pacific coast — observing how geology, weather, and wildlife all connect within the Pescadero Creek watershed. Guided by expert naturalists, they’ll meet “Big Red,” the enormous old-growth redwood, and join in the search for the camp’s mascot, the ever-cheerful banana slug!
Beyond science, students build community and confidence through teamwork, exploration, and creative fun. They’ll learn sustainability in the organic garden, debate real-world issues in the Town Hall meeting, and end each night with campfire songs, skits, and stargazing hikes through the forest. Nutritious, family-style meals and cozy cabins create a sense of home, while trained high-school counselors serve as mentors and role models. Loma Mar offers students a rare chance to learn, laugh, and grow while connecting deeply to the natural world — an experience they’ll remember for years to come.