Educators
Every Kid Outdoors
Every Kid Outdoors is a nationwide program that encourages 4th graders to get outside and visit their federal public lands and waters by offering a free pass their entire 4th grade year.
This pass allows free admission at sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees at over 2000 federal lands and waters for a full year beginning September 1 and ending August 31. It does not cover expanded fees so please inquire at the location you will be visiting for more information on pass acceptance. Call your local forest service office for exact details on how the pass applies to your adventure.
By participating in the Every Kid Outdoors Program, you can connect with nature and learn about your heritage while exploring millions of acres of federal lands and waters for free. Bring your family and friends to check out prehistoric dinosaur tracks, explore ancient sites, hike around a volcano or sit quietly and see what animals you observe in their natural habitat. Explore these suggested kid-friendly locations on California's National Forests!
Each pass holder is eligible for a free Christmas tree permit as supplies allow.
Programs
- Woodsy Owl's ABCs - A nature-inspired book to practice your ABCs.
- Smokey Bear for Educators - Resources for teaching about fire prevention.
- Discover the Forest | Descubre el Bosque - Family-friendly activities for enjoying the outdoors.
- Natural Inquirer - Free science education materials for pre-k through high school.
- Nature Connects Us A joint campaign between the Forest Service and the National Forest Foundation to awaken and strengthen all people’s connection to national forests and grasslands.
- Forest Service Nature LIVE - Virtual field trips and distance learning opportunities on a variety of topics for elementary through middle school aged students.
- Fire Ecology - Forest Service curriculum for K-12 students.
- Project Learning Tree - Environmental education program for indoor and outdoor classrooms.
- Leave No Trace Training - Being equipped with leave No Trace training makes our communities and outdoor spaces healthier.
- Tread Lightly Courses - Skills to interact responsibly outdoors.
Professional Development
These organizations provide trainings, certifications and other professional development opportunities in the fields of place-based and conservation education.
- North American Association of Environmental Education (NAAEE)
- California Regional Environmental Education Community (CREEC) Network
- California Education and the Environment Initiative (EEI)
- California Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (AEOE)
- California Environmental Literacy Initiative (ELI)
- Project Learning Tree - Online and in-person trainings in their instructional materials